Prologue - May the Gods carve our path
“May our sails pierce the ever wind, for we will reach the damned continent. The Great Emperor promised us eternal fortune should we dock on its unknown lands. So board the ships, my men, and may the gods carve our path!” a curved sword pointed to the Heavens.
The gesture was an invitation for the divinity to bear witness to their future achievement. Men of all ages, children who took their first breaths and elders who would soon take their last, stood in army formation on quays. They would depart for the most impressive feat of their lives, and ride on ships which held the mark of time. But all the eyes were pointed at a specific one.
Regent 1362
“Aye! Aye!” responded the crowd.
Everyone except for a person who was already on board wore white garment, intertwined with blue. The individual aboard was adorned by golden silk, standing tall as the sun who will lead them in the dark which awaits.
“Long live the Emperor! Long live the Captain!” they continue, shaking wood with their very steps as they walk in unison.
“We will set foot where no man has ever walked the lands. An achievement worthy of death, and of death we should be expectant, for we know not of what awaits. So I dare ask the juniors for reconsideration, for we may end up buried at sea by the waves.” the Captain’s stern voice spoke up, halting some movement.
“There is no shame in living your life. You would be fools to throw it away at such a young age, so think well before proceeding, for we will not turn back.”
Hung heads retreated through the marching crowd, pleasing the Captain. He could tell at a glance that there was hesitation in their eyes, and if they hadn’t returned to land, he would have kicked them off himself. A heart clouded by fear would leave no room for judgement, and they were in a situation where every choice would either be life or death.
“I presume the rest of you have made up your mind.” the captain uttered, and there was no need for words from the men, for their eyes spoke more than their voice could.
Determination, excitement, and expectancy shone brightly within their pupils. Their names would for ever live on, should they succeed. Straightened backs and stiff arms formed a stance of respect, and none dared look elsewhere.
“It would be an honour to die by your side, Captain!”
