laneys.info Beware of Yankees, drunks, and loose women.

William stood on the deck of the Swift Wind surveying the port city of the Macau Empire. William's mind drifted back to the time that he was here before and the reason. A hand placed on his shoulder brought him back to reality.

"My friend, are you sure that there is no way I can talk you out of this," said Captain Burbek.

William smiled and looked at the captain. Captain Burbek was a man in his fifties who knew how to command a ship and her crew. He was also a close friend of William's former lord and father-in-law Baron Bureel.William had grown to admire and like the captain over these many months at sea.

"I think you already know the answer to that."

"I know, but you can't blame me for trying," replied the captain.

"William! You sure I can't tag along? You know I can handle myself." The voice was that of his young friend Peter, one of the deck hands of the Swift Wind. Peter was a lad of just 16 years. William recalled the pirate attack that occurred two months out. He had seen Peter fell two of the pirate archers from their riggings with his bow and, with his sword, slay two more as they attempted to board.

"You're skill is without question, my friend, but they would best serve your captain and crew."

"After you find her," the captain said in almost a hushed tone, "how will you get home?"

"Arhus will provide," William said with a smile. "Captain, I want to thank you and the crew for getting me here. I know it is a bit out of your way."

"No thanks are necessary. Your quest is a noble one, not to mention that I owe the baron my life."

"You'll have to finish that story one day."

"It would be my pleasure. But now I must see to bringing up your horse and your gear."

William looked back out toward the city. He wondered how long it would take to find her and what he would encounter in the journey ahead.