1.1

“I do not like this. I do not like this one bit,” complained the ship’s captain in a low voice as he looked out over the waters. The fog was becoming thicker, and the moonlight was beginning to fail in its appointed task. As the wind buffed the stalwart mariner, he let out a low growl. The captain did not like the stranger standing tall next to him. The arrogant bastard was clothed in expensive, dark-blue, silk robes—as if to flaunt some sense of superiority. The only redeeming quality about the attire was that it attested to wealth, a portion (and large one at that) of which would be his after they returned to shore.

“Continue nonetheless,” replied the slender man standing next to him. Sûlmain had no intention of allowing this burly and ignorant sea-dog turn back when he could tell that they were closing in on their destination. For two weeks they had sailed, sailed into an uncharted area of the sea. For such a venture the captain had demanded a hefty price. He had accepted the gold. Let him earn his keep.

Sûlmain pulled forth a loadstone. This was no ordinary loadstone, it was made of a mix of diamond and glass. As he dangled the leather cord before him, it pointed deeper into the fog and began to glow. As Sûlmain continued on his journey, the gem glowed more brightly as he neared his destination. Now, it was as bright as a torch. The captain eyed the gem nervously.

“I do not trust sorcery. ‘Tis more deceptive than an impoverished whore.”

“But I am a sorcerer, and I do. We continue.” With that Sûlmain refastened the loadstone back onto his belt and meandered away.