Into Open Water

Bitias watched Tondo’s ship from across the lagoon. The sailors standing with him on the deck of the Arbiter held two oil-soaked torches ready to set them alight. The crew high in the rigging prepared to unfurl the sails. The rowers set their hands on the oars. The passengers said their prayers.

Suddenly, Bitias gave the order. “They’re lifting the anchor. Signal the fleet and head out to sea.”

The two flaming signal torches fell from the deck of the flagship, and the fleet came alive. In mere minutes, the sails were unfurled and the rowers sped the ships out of the lagoon. Beyond the outer island, their sails found the wind, and in minutes, they were well out to sea. The Arbiter and Phoenix moved into defensive position with the Sage and the Nebula safely in their pocket. Sailors and passengers alike took up arms and waited to see if Tondo’s ship would dare to force a battle with the fleet.

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