Capítulo 11: Port Town
Thud… Thud…
The rhythmic pounding of horse hooves echoed through the mist, drawing my attention. Moments later, a familiar carriage emerged from the fog, hastening down the winding road.
'He didn't run off with the money… That's a relief.'
I shook my head and stood up from the log I was sitting on, brushing the dirt from my trousers as I waited for the carriage.
"You're alive, sir!"
The coachman's relieved shout made my eyes twitch, but I kept my composure.
Why would I die, you bastard?
"Yes, indeed."
Cursing internally, I boarded the carriage, aware of the coachman's scrutinizing gaze on my torn and dirty clothes. His eyes lingered, but he didn't ask questions, which suited me fine.
I needed the silence to gather my thoughts and rest.
***
"We've arrived, sir."
Opening my eyes, I looked out the window at the bustling streets of the small port town. Quaint and charming, it had clean cobblestone roads and neatly tended shops.
Stepping out of the carriage, I took a deep breath, inhaling the salty air and the sound of waves crashing against the docks.
Bidding the coachman farewell, I navigated through the crowded streets toward the beach. The noise of the town gradually faded, replaced by the soothing sound of the sea.
Reaching the edge of the town, I stepped onto the beach, feeling the sand shift beneath my feet. The cool grains got into my shoes, the sensation both grounding and freeing. The wind whipped around me, ruffling my silver hair and carrying the scent of salt and seaweed.
I paused, letting the brisk sea breeze wash over me, and gazed at the water. Massive waves, dark and powerful, surged towards the shore, their white foam caps cresting before breaking upon the beach. The water, a deep, inky blue, seemed almost alive, a restless force commanding both respect and awe.
"It's even more beautiful than in the game…"
My golden eyes turned toward the docks, where fleets of ships were moored. The vessels varied in size and design, each one telling a story of voyages past and journeys yet to come.
The docks were a hive of activity. Sailors moved with practiced efficiency, hauling ropes and securing their vessels. The air was filled with shouts, the clatter of crates, and the occasional call of seagulls.
Everything seemed so… real.
It didn't seem like I had been transported into a game world.
'I should treat this as real life…'
Pinching my nose bridge, I let out a long sigh. It was hard to shake the notion that this was a dream and I would soon wake up. But even if there was a 99% chance it was a dream, there was still a 1% chance it was real. I couldn't take that risk lightly.
I might as well make the most of it.
Smiling, I shook my head and refocused my attention towards the docks.
I came to this port town for a reason.
The Starfall Academy I was supposed to attend was on the other side of the sea. However, before heading there, I had another destination in mind - a place where I intended to gain as many Attributes as possible. This place, too, lay across the vast sea.
I was here to board a ship and cross the open waters.
『 Vanish 』
Reappearing on the edge of the docks, I surveyed the array of ships, looking for a vessel that traveled the route I desired. My eyes caught sight of one particular vessel that I recognized from the game.
It was an imposing ship, distinct from the rest due to its sleek design and the way it almost seemed to glide on the water even while docked. Its black hull was polished to a glossy sheen, reflecting the sunlight in a way that made it appear almost ethereal.
The name Ebon Serpent was etched in silver along the bow.
The ship's three tall masts were adorned with sails that, although furled at the moment, looked ready to billow with the slightest command.
I approached the dock with purpose, making my way through the throng of sailors and merchants. At the base of the gangplank stood a man who could only be the captain. He was tall and broad-shouldered, with a neatly trimmed beard that framed a stern face. His eyes, sharp and discerning, missed nothing as he supervised the loading of cargo.
"Captain."
I called out, stepping up to him. He turned his piercing gaze towards me, sizing me up with a look that seemed to pierce through to my very soul.
"What can I do for you, lad?"
He asked, his voice a deep rumble, both commanding and inviting.
"I need passage across the sea…"
I said, holding out my hand with the few coins I had left.
"This is all I have."
The captain glanced at the coins, then back at me. He raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by the small amount.
"We don't run a charity here, boy. That won't even cover the cost of your meals."
I took a deep breath, steeling myself.
"I understand, but I'm willing to work. I can earn my keep on board. I just need to get across the sea."
He studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable.
"You don't look like a sailor."
He said finally.
"What skills do you have?"
"I'm a fast learner."
I replied, my voice steady.
"I can help with the rigging, the cargo-anything you need."
He stroked his beard thoughtfully, then nodded.
"Alright, we'll give you a trial run. But if you cause any trouble, you're off at the next port, understand?"
"Understood."
I said, relief washing over me.
"Welcome aboard the Ebon Serpent."
He said, extending a hand.
"I'm Captain Marlowe."
I shook his hand, feeling the calluses of a man who had spent his life at sea.
"Thank you, Captain Marlowe. I won't let you down."
Smiling, I said.
Internally, I was jumping in joy.
This was going fantastic!
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