Hi everyone! I really appreciate your patience :) I am sorry for the wait. Life gets in the way of writing sometimes. Which is OK. I am lucky to have a life of distraction. Never the less, I will be continuing on! I hope you enjoy this chapter. Please leave a review and share your thoughts! I love reading them. I have not yet committed to how this story will go...I have an idea on how it will end though! Thank you for sticking with me!
DISCLAIMER: I do not own the rights to The New Adventures of Sinbad - all this recognition goes to the Creator, Ed Naha.
Sinbad looked at Bryn and let out a sigh of relief once they exited the tavern. They shared a smile; both knowing exactly what the other was thinking. There were stopped two times by other travelers with quick greetings and polite small talk. Both of them were not inclined to linger any longer with either encounter.
Bryn had to ask, "Did you know any of them back there from past travels?"
"I recognized Kent", there was a pause, " but the last group of men, I had trouble recalling". Sinbad answered honestly with a shrug. "You?"
Walking along side him, she shook her head, "No".
Sinbad lead her to the tied up horse waiting for them outside. When they stopped he pulled her by the hand towards him. They finally had a moment to themselves. He spoke gently, "Come here". He pulled her closer.
Bryn's smile matched his as she felt him wrap an arm around her waist. She was about to speak when his mouth cover hers for a deep kiss. She returned his kiss without any thought. She was really getting used to this.
"I have been in need of doing that all day", Sinbad whispered to her once they parted.
"I've been in need of that myself", Bryn admitted out loud. She questioned him teasingly. "What kept you?"
"You will see", He promised. He let go of her and walked to the fence in aim to untie the horses' reigns. After doing so, he swiftly mounted the horse and settled himself on to the saddle. He looked to Bryn and held out a hand. The invitation needed no words.
Bryn gave him her hand as she realized that this was the same horse she saw him ride out of town with earlier. "Where are we going", she asked once she settled her self behind him. She let her arms hug his waist.
Sinbad looked over his shoulder, "You will see", He repeated with a gentle pat on her arm that rested in front of his abdomen. He glance over his shoulder to look at her and spoke gently, "I suggest you hold on tight".
Bryn did not have time to question why; her words got caught in her throat as she felt the jolt from the horse as it sprang forward into a gallop. Taking the Captain's advise, she held on to him a little tighter. Soon all she could hear were the horse's hooves beating the earth and it's panting breath echoing below her. She had no idea where they were riding to and at that very moment, she did not care. She believed Sinbad; she will see soon enough.
xxxx
"Enid?" Riley repeated loudly in the crowed tavern. He scrunched his face in disappointment. "What is in Enid?"
"Payment", Doubar looked at him impatiently as if he should already know that by now. "We have cargo to pick up", he explained further. He had a feeling there was more to Riley's sudden curiosity. He took a long swig of his ale.
"Where are you taking the cargo?" Riley asked quickly.
Doubar was already shaking his head, realization dawning on him. He looked around the room, "We are in a tavern filled with sailers! Not one Captain has accepted your coin for passage?" He scoffed loudly, " I don't believe that".
Riley set his own mug of ale down and looked at him pointedly, "I never said that". Doubar stared at him in silence. "I like to keep my options open". For a moment he felt like he was having a case of deja-vu; he was sure he had this same conversation with Sinbad when they first docked into port.
"You're being picky", Doubar growled. He had a feeling Riley was including The Nomad as one of his means of travel. He knew this was not an option Sinbad had in mind. He was sure his brother made his point clear the second Riley got on the ship. He let out a heavy breath. "If I remember this right, we're taking the cargo to Grey".
That location seem to peak Riley's interest. Grey was known to be a bustling sea port shadowed by lush mountains. Riley knew it well. He took another sip of his ale, preoccupied with his own thoughts. Grey. I have not been there in years. I like Grey.
"Where exactly are you trying to get to?" Doubar asked. "What are your plans?"
"My plans are still formulating, Doubar", Riley answered. A hint of irritation was in his voice. "I know it is difficult, but please have patience, my friend". He took a drink of his ale and scanned the room.
xxxx
Finally she felt Sinbad pull on the reigns. The horse beneath them slowed to a walk. Ahead of them was a cottage and a man standing a few feet from its' entrance. He greeted them with a small wave. Sinbad waved in returned with one hand and the other, bringing the horse to a stop. Bryn grew even more curious of what the evening had in store for them. She brought her lips to his ear and spoke low, "Do you know him?"
Sinbad nodded his head, dismounting as he answered her question. "His name is Edgar". Once his feet hit the ground, he turned and reached for her; helping her off the horse. "He is a successful fisherman in this port".
Edgar was already by their side by the time Bryn dismounted. He greeted them with a smile. "Hello Captain Sinbad". Introductions were quickly exchanged. Edgar turned to Sinbad, "Everything is all prepared as we discussed earlier". He reached for the horse's reigns. "I'll cool him off. Your meal is ready and is being kept heated over a hot stone next to the fire". He had a hopeful and encouraging smile, not wanting to disappoint either of them with what he prepared.
"We came as soon as we were able", Sinbad explained. He knew Edgar would be there waiting. "I appreciate all your help."
"It is no problem, Captain. I am always willing to help friends. A friend of Quinn and Finn's is always a friend of mine", the fisherman replied cheerfully. He nodded his head towards the horse, "Once I get him settled, I will be on my way and out of your hair".
"Thank you", Sinbad spoke sincerely, "You've gone above and beyond. On such short notice too. I won't forget it".
Bryn smiled at Edgar's kindness, "Thank you".
"I hope you two have a wonderful stay at the cottage", Edgar bade them farewell and brought his attention to the horse.
As Edgar lead the horse towards the properties' stables, Bryn looked at Sinbad with amused uncertainty. "You know, I have no idea what I am exactly thanking him for."
Sinbad laughed lightly and held out his hand, "Come on, let's eat. You said you were hungry earlier".
Taking his hand again, Bryn nodded her head in agreement. She started to walk towards the front entrance of the cottage, "What did he mean by...", she was caught off guard when Sinbad's aim was else where; still holding her hand, she was being lead away from the door. "Wait, where are you...I thought dinner was in there". She stop dead in her tracks. She was completely confused.
"When I asked you to have dinner with me, I had something else in mind". Sinbad continued to walk, leading her towards the path that would bring them to the beach. "You will see", he said once again.
Bryn saw a glimmer of tease and excitement in his eyes. He was enjoying himself and she wondered what he was up to. She couldn't help but smile back at him. She conceded; allowing him to lead the way, "Alright".
The narrow path opened up to stretches of golden sand and the frothy sea. The scene before them was beautiful against the setting sun. Just to the right of them, a small fire pit was ablaze and near it, a thick blanket was spread out on the sand at the base of a large piece of drift wood. Two wooden plates and two steel mugs resting on top of it.
She was awestruck, her mouth opened. She looked to Sinbad, "What is…did you do this?"
"I had some help", Sinbad admitted. He released her hand and walked towards the driftwood. He reached behind it and pulled up a jug. A rather enormous jug meant for a much larger group. "THIS was Firouz's idea".
Bryn laughed at the size of it. "Oh, really?" That confirmed a feeling she had earlier that day. She was sure there was something off with Firouz and Doubar. Especially Doubar. It's not often he agrees to go shopping once they settle into port. "That is concerning", she joked as she took a step closer. "Is that water or wine?"
"The latter", Sinbad responded.
"So…Firouz had an idea to get me drunk?" She questioned, amusement evident in her tone.
Sinbad gave a loud laugh and took a step closer to her. "We both know it won't take this much", he teased while leaning closer. He planted his lips on hers before she could argue. They lingered that way a few seconds longer.
Bryn closed her eyes as she returned his kiss. She spoke in a whisper when they parted, "You are comparing me to all the men on the ship". There have been more than one occasion where the crew have pointed this very same fact out. When it comes to any form of alcohol, Bryn was usually always the first one to be cut off. Her limit was not as high as theirs and it was known well on the ship.
"Bryn, that is not even possible", He said with a slight shake of his head. He knew in his heart that no one could be compared to her. Sinbad handed her the jug. "Have a seat. You pour and I will fill our plates". He watched her nod her head in agreement as she took the jug from him.
"That looks and smells delicious", Bryn stared at the hot stone. On top of it laid two seasoned, filleted white fish surrounded by vegetables. There were even two slices of dark bread that was kept on the stone to keep warm and next to it a bowl of fresh fruit.
"I thought you could use a break from tavern food", Sinbad pointed out. He stole a glance at her as he was preparing their plates; pleased at her reaction.
She could not stop smiling. "THIS is…amazing". Bryn let out slowly. She felt touched by all the work Sinbad put into dinner. What it really was is unexpected. She still didn't even know where they were or who the cottage belongs to back there. This was something no one has done for her before. She was at a lost for words.
They both sat down on the blanket and settled their backs against the driftwood. "Wait!" Bryn quickly spoke. She smiled and placed her plate beside her. She reach for her filled cup and held it up, "I think this calls for a toast".
Sinbad followed suit, lifting his own cup. "What are we going to toast to?"
Bryn's mind drew a blank and she could tell Sinbad was not prepared for this either. She laughed lightly at the first thing that came to mind. "To Edgar!" She continued, "Thank you Edgar for catching and cooking this wonderful meal that we are about to enjoy. She smile.
Amused, Sinbad went with it, tilting his cup forward, "To Edgar! A man of many talents". Their cups met before they took a sip.
xxxx
Riley spotted someone he recognized across the room. He spoke to Doubar without taking his eyes off the man, "Excuse me a moment". He quickly left the table with drink in his hand.
"What was that all about?" Firouz approached Doubar; following his friend's gaze at Riley back.
"He still has not found passage out of port", Doubar explained with a shake of his head. "I'm actually glad that he stepped away. He needs to be mingling if he wants to find a ship that will take him".
Firouz looked puzzled, "What is the rush?"
"He hasn't said it, but I know that he wants to get back on the Nomad", Doubar assumed out loud. "I am not at all surprised".
"We did just get into port", Firouz pointed out. "Let's give him more time". He nudged Doubar with his elbow, changing the subject. "Anders' new friend seems nice". He gave a nod in their direction. "They seem to be hitting it off really well".
Doubar chuckled, "We might have a brokenhearted man on our hands once we cast off".
"Or a brokenhearted woman", Firouz added. "It wouldn't be the first time".
"Nor the last", Doubar took a big swig of his ale. This was not uncommon in their line of work.
"Well that seemed pretty dark".
A woman's voice spoke low behind them. Doubar and Firouz both turned to find a familiar face and a long time friend. She stood with a mug of ale in her right hand as she reached with the other to give Doubar a hard pat on the shoulder in greeting. Her smile showed that she was surprised to see them as well.
"Max! What are you doing in Port James?" Doubar spoke loudly to be heard in the crowd.
"I have no bloody idea!" She replied. Amusement was evident in her tone. She scanned the tavern for a moment. "My dear husband is around here somewhere. You ought to ask him. I am not always privy to his plans". She shrugged. A smile soon returned on her face. "Oh! Enough about me!" Her bubbly personality soon radiated out as she spoke quickly. "I had no idea you guys sailed these parts. Did you just arrive? I would have noticed The Nomad secured at the docks if you've been here awhile" She scanned the room again, "Where is Sinbad and Rongar?"
"Yes, we've only just…" Firouz tried to answer her questions but she continued on.
"…and Bryn?" Max asked curiously. "Please tell me she stuck around with you brutes!" She joked.
Doubar laughed. "The crew is all here!"
Her eyes lit up, "Wonderful!" She scanned the room and caught sight of Rongar, who was walking towards them. "Ah! There he is". Rongar matched her smile as she pulled him into a hug.
"Get your hands of my wife!" A man yelled. Rongar and the crew knew it was all in good humor when they saw Max's own husband approaching. A smile was already formed on his lips. Rongar released her and lifted his hands up in a shrug indicating that he couldn't help himself. Max's husband laughed and held out his hand in greeting. "Rongar! Nice to see you're still with this crew". He joked, with a tilt of his head towards Firouz and Doubar.
"Oh! We would never let him leave!" Doubar responded jokingly with a boisterous laugh.
"Nor would he want to!" Firouz added.
"That is not surprising at all", Max smiled. She and her husband, have known Sinbad and his crew long enough to know that the most part of the crew were very loyal and are considered family. There would need to be a very good reason if anyone chose to move on.
Captain Ryder, Max's husband, shook hands with both Doubar and Firouz in greeting. He glanced around the room. "Where is your Captain?" He asked the small group.
"Perhaps, husband, the better question is where is Bryn?" Max added with a hint of smile on her face. Ever since she met Bryn and seen Sinbad around her, she sensed that The Nomad's Captain seemed very much at ease with Bryn's company. He had high spirits. She liked seeing that and hoped there would be more to their story.
"Oh?" Captain Ryder looked to the crew for confirmation. "Has it come to that?" His response were agreeable nods among Sinbad's crew. He grinned and took another scan around the room, not seeing them. "Well, I will leave them to it than! I am sure we will run into each other before long".
Doubar laughed, "I am sure that is best. Who knows what they are up to". He looked between Max and the Captain. "What bring you two to Port James?"
Max glanced at her husband to let him answer the question. "That is a very good question". She honestly was not sure. Port James was not a frequent port of call for them and they had no cargo on their ship to deliver. She laughed lightly at her own ignorance. "What are we doing here, dear?"
"We are acquiring a new ship", Captain Ryder answered slowly. Seeing his wife's immediate reaction to the news, he held up a hand before she could question him further. He spoke up, "Nothing is final. Everything is still under negotiations. I did not want you to have high hopes incase it falls through".
"Depending on the other party, matters of purchasing and transporting a ship can get complicated", Firouz pointed out.
"What about our ship?" Max's question came out in a higher octave than she expected. It was obvious that this was a complete surprise.
Captain Ryder placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, "You need not worry. I will handle everything when the time comes and keep you informed if it goes in our favor".
"A new ship. You must have had a very profitable year", Doubar thought out loud. "Good for you!"
"I can't complain", Captain Ryder nodded to Doubar in agreement. "Although, I will be in need of additional crew members". He looked to each man, "Would either of you know of any good hands in need of work?"
Doubar raised his brows at the question. One name immediately came to mind. "It depends on where you are going".
xxxx
They decided to remain on the beach a little longer after finishing their meal. Sinbad encouraged Bryn to move closer with a touch of his hand. Understanding his meaning, she silently positioned herself closer to him so that her back relaxed against his chest, leaning them both against the driftwood.
Their fingers entwined, "Did you get enough to eat?" Sinbad spoke low in her ear.
Bryn turned her head to look over her shoulder at him, "Yes, it was very good. " She gave him an appreciative smile. "Thank you".
"This..." Sinbad gave her shoulder a rub with his free hand, "...was long over due". Bryn raised her brow at that statement, indicating that she agreed. It was nice to have some space away from the rest of the crew. Before she could turn her head away from him to look back onto the sea, he placed his right hand against your cheek, and brought his lips down to hers for a kiss.
Bryn closed her eyes as she felt Sinbad's lips gently part against hers. She had very little thought when her mouth opened and her tongue delved passed his lips. Their kiss grew deeper and more passionate.
This was almost Sinbad's undoing. He willed himself to stop. He needed to tell her what has been on his minds these past few weeks, even months. He needed to find control. He pulled back and look into her eyes and whispered a suggestion, "Let's not miss this sunset".
Bryn nodded her head in his hand, a small smile formed on her lips. She had hoped they had time for that later. She turned her attention back to the beach. A question returned to her from earlier. "Sinbad?" She stole a glance back at him. "Edgar told us to enjoy our stay. Does he live here?"
Sinbad shook his head and explained further. "This property belongs to Finn, the inn keeper in port. He rents out the cottage to travelers who seek a more comfortable stay than what the inn could offer. I discovered that it was vacant once we got into port and arrangement were quickly made".
Bryn looked at him, surprised written on her face and soon confusion. She wondered why the rest of the crew were not informed. She knew they would most likely have already paid for a room at the inn.
"Finn felt that he owed me a favor and offered to give the crew a discounted price at the inn", Sinbad added as if he were reading Bryn's thoughts. He cleared his throat, "The cottage...is for you and me till we cast off". Sinbad saw Bryn's mouth open in surprise and spoke quickly, "Only If you wanted! If you prefer to stay closer to town we can..."
Bryn interrupted him quickly, "No…we'll stay here". She gave him a reassuring smile. She was content about where they were.
Sinbad let out a breath. "I was hoping you would say that". He felt Bryn relax against him and he soon felt at ease at what he wanted to tell her. The shared silence allowed him to gather his thoughts. They watched the sun set together as it disappeared below the sea; giving nature it's moment to put the day to rest.