Chapter Two
A stout breeze had been blowing for several days, and by noon of Fourthday we could see the shores of Galma. We were to stop in a Galmian port for the night and continue towards Terebinthia tomorrow. From there, it would be my job to gather local rumours and reports and shape them into useful -and truthful- intelligence upon the pirate's whereabouts.
My cabin was comfortable, containing a proper bed against the ship's stern, a couple of tapestries, a large table with a map and wine decanter, and a small closet for clothes and weaponry.
As I stepped up on deck I was greeted by the sweet salt air and the cry of gulls overhead. I looked towards the bow, and saw the captain examining the Galmian coast with his spyglass.
Being careful to keep my balance on the softly swaying deck, I strode up to the bow and spoke to him.
"Cap? Is something wrong?"
"I'm not entirely sure Sir Martin. Here, have a look for yourself."
I took the spyglass and examined the coastline and port. I saw no movement along the quay of the port, and no traffic along the coast road.
"Awfully slow day, don't you think?"
"Indeed. What's the plan of action?"
"I'm not quite sure yet."
It was then that I noticed the single vessel docked at the quay. It had black sails, and was built specifically for fast raids, having a shallower draft than most warships, and even Swanwhite. She did carry lighter sail, however, and that gave me hope.
"Captain, load the ballistas, and break open the arms. We're about to engage."
As the old salt shouted orders to the midshipman to ring the warning bell, I turned my attention back to the docked pirate vessel. We needed a good plan if we were to take her, and I thought I just might have one.