| "I will not let it leave this chest," Hermione said. "I swear it upon my honor." "Thank you, Hermione," Kat said, smiling. Hermione locked the chest and stood up, and the group walked to the door. Just then, the captain stopped the following adventurers and turned around. "You reminded me of something, Guardian Kat," the captain said, placing her hat back on her head, turning away from the Guardians. "While you three may be Guardians of our beautiful and holy island nation, you are still passengers -- regardless of being guests or not -- aboard my ship. I am a proud Trillanian woman and seafarer, and I will not tolerate any sort of misbehavior or insubordination aboard the Covenant. Therefore, from this point forward, you will address me as 'captain' or 'ma'am,' and you will adhere to my command. Do you understand?" Kat, Clara, and Salem looked at each other, too intimidated to even say a word. Hermione, in disgust of the blankness of silence, clenched her fists. "I say again," she said, quietly, almost snarling, "do you understand?" "Yes--yes, Captain Hermione," Clara said, softly. "We are in your debt, ma'am." Hermione loosened her fists and turned back to the group. "That is good," she said, showing no expression of feelings. "That being said, come along out of my quarters, and up to the deck. Let us all enjoy together the launching of a truly great Trillanian ship. We sail westward towards the Crystal Shores. A great deal of trade and exploration awaits us there." The group headed back to the deck and waited as Hermione's small, yet faithful, crew pulled the anchor from the water. Barton and a few others then raised the sails; instantly the wind hit them and the ship began to move. A crowd began to wave and bid farewell to the Covenant as Barton steered the great ship out of the harbor. Hermione stood at the bow and waved goodbye as the boat pulled away from the shore. "We have departed with warm regards," Hermione said. "Our trip begins now." Back to Stories Back to "TAOK&C" Back to Home |