She says that you will travel through and interact with peoples from many different places, time periods, and cultures that have formed communities. Some of these will be peaceful, but many will not. In order to protect yourselves, and before you begin the Quest, you will need to fashion tools and weapons.
She opens a paper-like vellum tube. There are illustrations, and the text appears to be in French. It reads:
Vous devrez employer les ressources qui sont autour de vous pour faire de ce que vous avez besoin.*
Annie: Can anyone read this?
Ben: Though I am conversant in that language, I believe that I know of a person who's native tongue is French. I shall be right back.
*He goes to one of the bamboo and thatched huts that cover the plains around them, enters, and cames back with a blond haired man.*
Ben: May I introduce Annie. This is my friend Simon.
*Follows Ben looking slightly confused, and in an archaic and hard to understand dialect of French*
Simon: Je dois faire des excuses, mais je ne parle pas anglais. Je suis Simon, Earl de Liechester, à votre service. Je parle également l'allemand et le latin. *reads the note* Il nous indique doit se contenter de ce que nous pouvons trouver.*looks around at the thousand or so naked people in site along the Riverbank* Je proposerais que nous nous armions, cette foule ne regarde pas comme il restera long amical *holds up his grail* Est-ce que maintenant, pour quoi ceux-ci pourraient être?
Ben: Simon mon ami. Annie ne vous comprend pas, et bien que j'aie compris sa majeure partie, nous devrons vous trouver quelqu'un qui peut vous donner quelques leçons très rapides en anglais avant que nous commencions la recherche.
Simon: "peut-être."*Wanders over and places his grail on the mushroom-shaped stone, yet keeps one of the cups out After making sure where he placed it, he wanders over to the stand of bamboo and tries to break a stalk that is roughly two inches in diameter, and at least six feet long.
* He turns to Ben and asks if there is any chance of finding a rough chunk of rock about.... foot sized.*
Ben: I don't know, but let me ask Annie, she may know.
*As Simon continues working on the bamboo stalks, obviously creating weapons of some sort, he repeats what he had said earlier.*
Simon: Je proposerais que nous nous armions.
*He says that the goal here is to create at least one spear, preferably two, and a staff/club type thing, and if the cup he has taken out of his grail has thin enough walls, he will try to use it to chop a point into the bamboo shaft*
Annie: * Looking at Simon* I hope that you will learn English so I can understand what you say without resorting to Ben. As to your question. From what I heard in my first life here on the Riverworld, one can find small amounts of quartz and chert, but I had a knife made of the basalt that can be found in very large quantities at the foot of the mountains. Then you won't have to use your grail cup.
H.G Welles:* Looks at everyone * Good Day to you all. My Name is Herbert. I see you fellows are making weapons. A wise move, this place clearly has the potential to be very dangerous. May I join you? I made a Chert based axe by jamming a large sharp edged piece into a section of bamboo, with a fork cut into the end. I then bound it with grass. I can show you how if you like, it now makes useful tool, and a good weapon, but hopefully we will not have much call to prove that.
Annie: Good day Mr. Welles. I know your writing, and read the War of the Worlds when I was 18 years of age, and I believe we met when I was touring in London with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. Let me present Simon de Montfort Earl of Leicaster, and Dr. Benjamin Franklin. May we call you H.G.? We ain't very formal around here.
Ben: That is certainly a fine piece of work you have made there. A scientist as well as a writer?
H.G.: You can indeed call me H.G. It is flattering to be remembered! I was not an inventor in my earthly life, but here? Who knows what we must become to survive.
Hardin: *He walked up from the river heading towards the grailstone. His grail was attached to a strap which went over his shoulder and he carried a war hammer made of bamboo and stone. In his belt was a chert knife. He glanced around at the crowd and stopped to study one small group. He recognized the woman and one of the men looked familiar too but he couldn't put a name on the face of either. He stepped closer half out of curiosity and half to hear what they were saying. Someone around here he thought to himself is bound to know what's going on. He looked at the two faces he felt he recognized and studied them. He knew that he had not met them before but somehow they were familiar. Maybe he saw their pictures somewhere. The last thing Hardin remembered was shooting dice in El Paso. He felt a sudden stinging pain, like he was shot all over his body and then nothing. He woke up on the river, naked and surrounded by people who he didn't understand but they too were naked and hairless. He wandered some and just about the time his hair had grown back he found a small settlement just upriver from where he awoke. He had cooked a dinner of fish over a small fire and gone to sleep but when he awoke he was somewhere else on the river. He hadn't slept much since then, not sure where he would wake up if he did sleep. He had been moving slowly upriver since then hoping to find someone who spoke English, Spanish both of which he was fluent in or even French which he was able to speak some of. So far, nothing. He still didn't know how he got here or about dying and being reborn somewhere else along the river. He looked around at the group and it appeared they were tryng to make weapons of some sort. He also noticed that some were better at it than others. He shook his head and turned to walk away but stopped when he thought he heard some words in English. He turned back but was distracted by something on the river. He watched for a moment to be sure then said out loud* Hardin: War canoes! *He turned to the group and said it again but louder.* Hardin: WAR CANOES! *He grabbed the familiar looking girl by the arm and pulled her forcibly to her feet. Pushing her hard in the direction away from the river he yelled* Hardin: They're slavers! Get your tail as far from here as you can go! Move!" *He looked around at the others.* Hardin: If you're not ready to fight then you better run too. *He looked around in an attempt to see if any others were going to fight or run.*
Annie:* She was sure that she recognized the man who had pulled her to her feet and was now pushing her, but she did recognize the word he was saying. She had never run into them but she knew what slavers were.* Annie: Ben! H.G.!, Simon! DANGER! DON'T ASK ME WHY, JUST FOLLOW US AS QUICKLY AS YOU CAN!
ESCAPE?
*Annie, Ben, H.G., Simon, and the stranger headed across the plains toward the thickly wooded hills as fast as their legs would carry them. Behind them the canoes with their slavers had spotted them and headed for the bank. Reaching the woods, they stopped and looked toward the River. The canoes were now on the bank and its crew members were pointing toward the hills.*
Annie: *She looked at Ben Franklin and said,* Ben. Tell Simon what I say. Those people appear to be slavers like this gent here says. We've got to find us a place to hide or we'll end up slaves and possibly maimed or killed.*With that, Annie and the stranger led the others deeper into the woods.*
Hardin:*Once into the trees the ground rose some and at one point Hardin stopped to see who was following them. The other people who were on the shore were not expecting an attack. The slavers quickly grabbed anyone who had a grail and those who didn't were savagely killed. Within minutes the beach was littered with dead and the slavers dragged the remainder back to the canoes, as a small band of slavers, 6 or 7 of them, were running towards the trees. Then half to himself and half out loud* Hadin: Damn, they spotted us, the greedy SOBs. *He turned to the others.* Hardin: Keep going, I'll catch up in a few minutes. *He moved back down the trail and with his back to the hill he stood waiting for the slavers, his war hammer resting in his hands and a chert knife in his belt.*
Annie: I just figured out who you are. Mr. John Wesley Hardin. Outlaw and many other things. Hope you're as good with that hammer as you were with a six shooter.*Annie stood on the trail with a basalt knife in her hand.* H.G.: And I too know you from the penny dreadfuls that were sold in London. How much of it is fact, I have no idea. Maybe you can answer some of my questions once we get out of this predicament. *He had a chert axe at hand. Ben: And though I don't know of you, but I do believe 7 to 5 odds are better than 7 to 1. I am quite skilled in the art of boxing, which I learned whilst in England. Simon stood beside the others with three bamboo spears at the ready.
Hardin:*He looked at the girl with no change of expression and then lifted the hammer. Showing her the stains on the stone he replied, Hardin: I have had plenty of occasion to use this and I'm still around to talk about it. *Then turning to Ben* Hardin: I've already faced 7 to 1 odds. *He smiled wryly* Hardin: I was too fast for them. *As the slavers came into sight he spit out a curse. Then he said, Hardin: You all may want to consider leaving now before its too late. They don't look like they want to take any prisoners.
*Seven slavers came at the group of five. They brandished weapons that ranged from stone axes to stone headed spears. Two attacked Annie, two faced off against Hardin, and one each attacked Simon and H.G. They were small but wiry men of mixed ethnicity. As one man charged the unarmed Ben with his spear, Ben moved one small step to his right and his fist landed against his attackers jaw and the man dropped like a stone to the ground. Picking up the unconscious man's spear, Ben moved to help Annie who had dodged an axe blow and sunk her basalt knife into her attacker, and whirled around to face her second opponent whose raised stone axe was moving down upon her head when a spear went through his body, the axe falling inches away from Annie.* Annie: Thanks H.G. Now I have my knife and an axe, and you have a spear and an axe.
*While Annie and Ben were busy warding off their attackers, Simon had scored two hits with his bamboo spears and now had a stone axe.*
*Annie had tied the hands of the slaver that Ben had knocked out, and looked toward where she had last seen Hardin being attacked. She saw him standing up over two men who lay on the ground with their heads rearranged. Surprisingly, the five stalwart Questers had miraculously survived unscathed.*
*Looking back toward the river bank, they could see many dead bodies on the shore and the slaver's huge war canoes packed with the bodies of those who would now be slaves, moving back up the River.
H.G.: I say. Looks like we had a good bit of luck. Those slaver chaps didn't care that their comrades here hadn't shown up for the embarkation.
Ben: I believe that we better embark ourselves. We now needn't worry about the making of weapons in order to protect ourselves and can continue upon our Quest.
Simon: Que sommes-nous à faire avec le prisonnier?
Annie: I wished that he would learn to speak in English! What'd he say Ben?
Ben: He asked a question that has been bothering me. What do we do with the prisoner? *As Ben translated the Frenchman's question, Hardin took his axe out of his belt and walked toward the tied captive.*
Hardin: *He pulled the knife from his belt, bent down over the captured slaver and slit his throat. He stepped away from the body and looked around at the weapons on the ground until he found an axe that suited his grip. He held it, spun it in his hand and nodded to himself. He slid his knife and hammer into his belt and glanced towards the river and the departing slavers.* Hardin: Well, it looks like you'll be safe for now. I don't expect them to return here since there's nothing left for them. *He looked at he others.* Hardin: Anyone back there you care to bury? *He looked over the at the bloody shore and then to the bodies around him.* Hardin: And any of you know what the hell's going on? Where the hell am I?
Annie: Seems to me that the stories about you being a cold-blooded killer be true. I hope you knew that the tied up man you just killed will come alive somewhere up or down the River. That may make the killin' like a pretend to you. I'd have let him go. As he was, without his friends nor a weapon, he was no harm to us. That might have learned him a better lesson while he was tryin' to survive.
Ben: As for me, I believe that all of us should have had a say as to the fate of the prisoner.
Annie: As to your wantin' to know what and where, we are on what folks here call the River. you. My name is Annie Oakley. I died in 1926, and when I woke up, I found myself nekked and like someone took all my hair.
I met others who told me that they was on a quest with others to find who they called the Mysterious Stranger. He, she, or it, is said to be in a tower that stands in the center of the Polar Sea, where the great River both begins and ends. It's there in that Tower that the answers to all our questions was to be found. They warned me about joinin' them and showed me a message that said,
Beware! If you attempt to find me, I warn you that I will place many obstacles in your path. These could result in dire consequences for you. You may have a chance if you join with others, but always remember! I am anyone. I am here. I am there. I am everywhere! I Remain, X
I joined them, and whilst we were movin' up the River, I was kilt, and woke up here.
Let me introduce you to my friends.
Ben Franklin, Simon IV de Monfort, and H.G. Welles. We are continuing the Quest, and my friends have decided that I will lead them as I have had a good deal of time on this River world. If you want to join us that's fine. If you want to go off on your lonesome, we lose quite a fighter, but that's up to you.
Hardin: Cold blooded? What do you think that savage had planned for you? He'd stuck you every which way from Sunday before slitting your throat and most likely worse than that! And he wasn't about to learn any lesson. He'd go back to his kind and bring them back here for us. *He stepped over to one of the slavers Annie killed and nudged him with his toe.*
Hardin: It seems none of you had any problem killing them. I guess seeing someone else do it doesn't sit well with you.
*Turning to Ben* Hardin: There wasn't time to ask if we should take a vote. Besides, I never killed anyone that didn't deserve it. *Then he looked a bit confused.* Hardin: How did you know who I am, anyway? *Then he thought for a moment.* Hardin: So we're all dead here, is that it? And if we die here, or die again, we wake up somewhere else? That explains some things....I must have been shot in the back by some yellow SOB the first time and again killed from behind once I got here. *He shook his head and looked at the group.* Hardin: The only reason I saved your tails was because you're the first bunch I've met here that speaks English. No other reason. *A flicker of recognition crossed his face.* Hardin: Ben Franklin. That's why you looked familiar but you're different than your pictures. *He looked at the other men.* Hardin: Never heard of you two or you either *gesturing to Annie* but you still look familiar. *He slowly spun his new axe in his hands as he thought for a moment.*
Hardin: I'll go with you. I have a few things I'd like to discuss with this Stranger...including finding out who shot me in the back. He should be somewhere along this river too, right?
Simon: *Pointing his finger at Hardin.* Monsieur Hardin. Vous souhaitez prendre le credit pour sauver nos queues ? Nous avons Ãgalement sauver nos queues!
Hardin: Et qui vous a averti au sujet des canoës de guerre? My French is poor but I got the gist of what you said. You were too busy doing whatever you were doing to even notice the slavers. Another 30 seconds and you'd be in their canoes heading back to the slave camps. Or wishing you were.
*Looking across at the bloody beach.* Hardin: Well, Boss Lady, do you have some plan in mind to find this Mysterious person or is this a let's make it up as we go expedition?
Annie: We all thank you for the warnin' that you gave us about the slavers comin' up the River. I believe that Simon thought that you meant that you were alone when we fought the slavers that came after us. If you would like to call me Boss Lady instead of Annie, it's fine with me. As to my making it up as we go. I ain't no fool Mr. Hardin. There are canoes we saw the locals hide back on the beach. I'm sure that if we took a few, twouldn't be missed, and Ben tells me that he is workin' on somethin' that I gave him that twould make it much easier on us all aroun'.
*The group then walked toward the beach and a large pile of bamboo and other vegetation under which Annie had said a number of canoes lay hidden. As they came near a strange happening occured.*
*They saw a very tall figure with unkempt hair, which was tied up in a towel. He was wearing a kimono that had been fashioned out of other towels. He leaped from one of the canoes, brandishing what appeared to be two wooden swords as he rushed up the beach towards them.
They were preparing to defend themselves when the strange-looking man stopped and said what sounded like* ?: wah-tahk-shee no ee-moht-toh!
Annie: Hold on everyone! Musashi?
Musashi: My Little Sister. Is it you?
Annie: Oh. Musashi. I thought that I would never see you again.
Musashi: And I am so happy that we are together once again Little Sister.
Annie: * To the others.* I can't believe it! I want to introduce you to my Big Brother, Miyumoto Musashi. He and I were on the Quest when we were attacked as we slept. He will tell you more after we take what we need. I believe that three canoes should be enough. As I have many things to ask Musashi, he and I will share one canoe. Ben. Since you have been teaching Simon English, I'd like you to share a canoe. And Mr. Hardin and H.G. can share the third canoe.
Hardin: *to Annie* OK... whatever. No sense standing here flappin' our gums. Let's see what these canoes can do. Oh, by the way, I'll voice my objections when I disagree but you ARE in charge and I'll go along with what you say. That is, until its time for me to leave but I won't leave you in trouble. You've got my word on that.
Annie: Fair enough Mr. Hardin.
Hardin:*The canoes looked sturdy and were of good size. Hardin took the back of the canoe before anyone could object. There was a small amount of supplies in each, enough for 2-3 days, and they set off upstream. The sun was now setting and darkness covered the river. Hardin hoped that they would continue through the night since he felt travelling on the river in the day was risky, and the others agreed with him. He had checked the supplies and found some dried food, containers with water, some blankets and a large canvas-like material. There were also 2 grails. 'Someone's out of luck' Hardin thought to himself. He kept his eyes on the shore both ahead and behind them but all seemed quiet. His mind tavelled back and forth between the River and the real world he came from as he tried to sort out what had happened but all he could think about was what he would do to the men in both worlds who had killed him and who they might be. At one point the canoes drifted over 50 yards apart and were almost out of sight of each other.
Hardin: Let's try and stay closer to them. *he said in a low voice, just loud enough for HG to hear. And then he said* Hardin: She's opposed to killing to save our lives but not to stealing. I guess not all 10 Commandments apply here.
H.G.: I say old chap. I agree with the argument that you put forth as to why you killed the prisoner, but I believe that our Annie was aghast as was I, that you killed the blighter while he lay there all trussed up like a Christmas turkey. As to our stealing the canoes and supplies. One can look upon it as the preservation of life, a human instinct. Had there been other than bodies to have bartered with, I believe that we would have done so.
Hardin: A preservation of life, a human instinct as you put it? Well, that's how I saw it, a preservation of MY life, MY human instict... to survive. Now, suppose he was not about to cooperate, what then? Take him along anyway, keeping him trussed up like a Christmas turkey? Would you have fed him and washed him too? Go behind the bushes and help him with his bodily functions? Or perhaps when you get tired of caring for him then you'll slit his throat. I saved you the trouble of making that decision, which you obviously would have agonized over for days first. And concerning these canoes, they belonged to someone and we stole them, very neatly and very quietly with everyone's approval. Everyone's. There were locals to barter with, they just happen to be far enough away so that we could justify not waking them.
*Hardin paused to listen for sounds on the water. Hearing nothing he continued.*
Hardin: Don't judge me for what I do when all of you are no better. As the Good Book says, 'Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.' Or perhaps you've already decided that you're less wrong than I am therefore you can sit in judgement.
*Hardin shook his head to himself and sat in silence as he paddled quietly.*
*H.G. thought to himself. What a poor troubled human soul, and continued moving the oar in the water.*
*A shrill whistling sound rose over the River. The mile-wide River was shrouded with fog which obscured everything. The whistles that Musashi had fashioned out of bamboo for each Quest member now proved their worth.*
Ben: Simon. Stop rowing and blow your whistle! *Simon looked puzzled until Ben stopped rowing and blew on the whistle around his neck then said*
Ben: Soufflez votre sifflent!
Annie: Big Brother. You have been here for a very long time. What chance do we have in finding the Tower and the Mysterious Stranger.
Musashi: We must first bring all canoes close so our forces are strong.
Annie: I think I can see a canoe.*As they draw closer they can make out Ben and Simon, both blowing their bamboo whistles.*
Ben: Ahoy there! Thank the lord you found us! This fog is as strange as this valley. It would appear that the interaction between the water and air causes quite a thick mist.
Simon: Acoutez! I hear whistle!
Annie: Hey! You're sayin' it in English, and you're right. That must be H.G. and Hardin. Let's stay close and move toward the sound.
* The two canoes turned almost as one and they moved toward the sound of the bamboo whistles.*
H.G.: *Whispers* What the devil is wrong? Can't see a thing - which direction did that come from, let's move gently that way with our hands, not the paddles.
Hardin:*As the whistles blew Hardin looked around.*
Hardin: What the hell is that? Wells! What's that noise? What's going on?
*The canoes were now engulfed in the fog and Hardin could barely see the front of the canoe. He cursed to himself then felt something was wrong. He reached for his axe and listened.*
*The two had forgotten about the small bamboo cylinders with vines to place around their necks, that the samurai had given each Quest member. Now they found them and began blowing.*
*Hardin spoke in a loud whisper*
Hardin: Wells! Stop blowing that damn whistle! And stop paddling and listen!
*The River was calm, almost glass-like and the only sounds were the whistles but they sounded like they were coming from every direction. Hardin cursed as he turned his head to listen in every direction. It's an illusion caused by the fog Hardin was thinking, half to himself and half outloud. Off to the left he heard a small splash and as he turned quietly in that direction he poised ready to let his axe fly. He listened to the sound of the whistles which sounded like they were getting neither closer nor further away but had the illusion of circling around them.*
Hardin: Wells! *he whispered.* WELLS!
*It wasn't very long that the two canoes found Hardin and H.G.*
Ben: Ahoy there. We didn't hear your whistles until a short while ago, and we couldn't imagine where you might be in this 'pea soup'.
Annie: Now that we're back together, let's travel two by two at least until the sun comes up. Fortunately, we each have a share of the supplies in our canoes, with one spare grail in Musashi's and my canoe, and the other in the canoe of Mr. Hardin and H.G.
Musashi: In rush to leave, we did not see if grails we possess are 'free' grails. Please Hardin sahn. Take grail and see if you can find on it a small picture that show how grail can be opened. Little Sister, you do same. If picture is there, we can open same. If not, grail can only be opened by its owner.
*Hardin scowled slightly at Musashi. He had checked the grail right after he found it so he already knew it was useless to them.*
Hardin: I already checkee grail. Grail no good, like chopsticks. *He tossed the grail over to the canoe near Annie.
Hardin: Little Sister can checkee if she not believe Hardin.
*Then he stopped and turned his head to try and listen harder. There were sounds close by, splashing sounds.Then silence. The canoes began rocking slightly as a small wave passed them. Hardin listened intently and at the same time he tried to get his bearings, but there was no way to tell how far away the shore was. His hand instinctively grabbed the handle of his axe again.*
Hardin: I don't like this.
Annie: Then why Mr. Hardin did you allow us to drag two grails with us if they were of no use? Or are you holding back something that we should know? And by the way Mr. Hardin. My friend will not tell you this himself, so I'll tell you! Miyumoto Musashi was the most respected Japanese samurai of his time. He has been here a good deal longer than any one of us. He has mastered many languages and customs of those who inhabit this River valley, and he truly cares for people. This I know first hand, as I would not have survived without his help. You on the other hand treat people as if they were all your enemies. To make this Quest work, we need to respect each others abilities, not make fun of others without one speck of knowledge about them! Now Mr. Hardin. Please tell us all what you don't seem to like at this moment!
Hardin: You want to know what I don't like? First off, I'm somewhere I don't know anything about or even how I got here. You tell me I died and ended up here which may be right because this seems more like Hell than the fire and pitchforks I grew up thinking Hell was. And if it's not Hell I don't know what it is, but it certainly isn't Heaven! Apparently I was shot in the back! Some blasted coward shot me in the back! Didn't even have the guts to face me! Then someone here gets me from behind when I was eating. If that's not enough, the only people I meet here in... where ever I am.. the only people that I can understand seem content with being here as if its the most natural thing in the world. Well, its NOT natural! And I want out of here. If I have to find some Mysterious person in order to find out how to get out then that's what I'll do. But I am the way I am and just because I'm somewhere that I can't explain, or anyone else for that matter, it doesn't mean I'm going to be someone else or act differently. And I have no reason to respect anyone I know nothing about. Respect is earned and I respect those who earn it. I gave you my word that I'd help you and wouldn't leave and my word is good no matter what those dime novel thieves wrote.
*He paused then continued.*
Hardin: But I didn't say anything about changing the way I was and I didn't promise to like anyone. Now, if you think I'll be a problem for your little group as you go on your Quest then drop me on the nearest shore and I'll go alone. But I guarentee that I'll find that Mysterious Stranger and the Tower with or without all of you.
Musashi: First. There was a time when I would have struck you down for your words of disrespect toward Little Sister and myself, but not now. Now I put all my energy into the Quest. Like yourself I was confused when I awoke from death to find myself here. I have been here for too many years, and like yourself I wish to leave, but I have learned that the only way to do so is to find the Tower and the Mysterious Stranger.
To like or not is an individual decision, and you are correct. Respect must be earned.
*The rocking of the boats and the sounds that had been heard now became apparent as dark figures emerged from the river.*
Hardin: *He looked at Musashi as he spoke and found nothing to disagree with.*
Hardin: OK, we'll eventually respect each other. In the meantime we should .... *Just then the dark figures climbed into the canoes. Hardin still had his axe in his hand and reacted instinctively and quickly. The figures might be men though he wasn't sure, and his first thought was that they were more slavers. He swung the axe over and into the head of the one closest to him. He tried to pull it back out but it was stuck. He cursed loudly and kicked the body back into the water, his axe going with it. He reached for the hammer but 2 others grabbed his arms. He cursed again and threw one of them forward towards HG in the front of the canoe, then he punched at the one holding his other arm and as they fought 2 more sets of arms reached up from the water and pulled him overboard. As all this was going on the dark figures made no sounds nor spoke.
*The strange dark forms pulled H.G. into the water, and the same happened to the others as they attempted to fight off the wraith-like creatures from beneath the River.*
*When Annie opened her eyes, she was in a strange room. Covering her nose and mouth was what appeared to be a green net. On a thick greenish mat like her own was Masashi, who seemed to be tied down like herself, but asleep. The room was in a large semi-transparent globe-like greenish structure and Annie could see many forms moving around the outside of it, then Annie's eyes closed.*
*At the same moment in time but in two other globe-like structures were Simon and Ben, and H.G. and Hardin tied down upon a mat with a net covering their lower faces, and like Musashi, they were asleep.*
*When Annie's eyes opened once more, she and the others were seated on what appeared to be green toad stools with flattened tops. Their hands and feet were tied and the green net still covered their nose and mouths, and the air felt very thick. A small wizened woman moved toward the center of a large green spheroid-shaped room and began to speak.* Queen: I welcome you to Aquatainia. I am sure that all of you are confused, and saw what you must have considered an attack upon you two periods ago, when we were forced to save you without explanation from an attack upon your boats by Night Raiders. You were tied up until you could be told that we mean you no harm, and to prevent you from taking the breathing net from your faces. They allow you to take in the oxygen you need from the green net plants and sending out the carbon dioxide to them in a symbiotic exchange. I know that you must have many questions, so please ask them.
H.G.: I say. When are we to be released from these bindings?
Queen: If you will all give me your word that you will not attempt to harm any of us here, I shall have your bonds removed.
Ben: I will certainly give my word, and I am interested to know where we are and who you are. Queen: We were members of the legenary peoples from Atlantus on Earth. When our civilization ended with a catastrophic meteoric strike, all of us were ressurected here. Because we were a peaceful people, we became easy targets for slavers, Night Riders, and other non-peaceful inhabitants. We developed Aquatainia to hide our peoples from the evil ones that exist, and tried to protect others from those evil ones as we did with your group.
Simon: Vous avez mon mot. Merci de nous protager.
Annie: My word is yours. What is this building that we're in?
Queen: This net sphere is a larger version of the breathing net over your faces. The oxygen in the River's water is filtered in and our waste gases are filtered out.
Musashi: My word as a samurai is yours as well!
Hardin:*When he woke he was seated with the others and still tied. He struggled fiercely to free himself, and cursed loudly but to no avail. As the others spoke calmly to the Queen, Hardin grew madder both at his being tied and at the calmness of the others. Realizing that his bonds were not going to give, he ceased struggling but his face still showed his anger.* Hardin:I would have been more likely to go along with your terms if you hadn't bound us all up. All trussed up like a Christmas turkey. *At those words he glared at HG.* Hardin: My word is my bond and its good, but I'm not about to give it without some sort of guarantee that we'll all be safe. *Then he looked around at the others and let his breath out slowly.* Hardin: OK, since you've said none of us will be set free until we all give our word then you'll have mine too. No sense being the only one in a sinking boat that's allowed to swim. *He shook his head.* Hardin: I can't believe I'm doing this.*He studied the Queen for a moment.* Hardin: And what happens if we break our word?
Queen: If your words mean nothing, then we will be forced to expell you from Aquatania before the upper world is safe for you. I hope though that this will not be the case. Now. I'm sure that you are hungry so if you will follow us, food is waiting.
*The food that they were served was strange to their eyes, but their senses of smell and taste were very much satisfied.* Queen: As I know that you would like to continue on your way, our watchers of the upper world are making sure that your way is safe. Your boats and supplies are in a hidden cove where you will be taken.*Just then a small group entered the food center and moved toward the Queen.* Queen: It seems that the evil ones are busy elsewhere and if you are ready, you are free to go. I hope that you will forgive the manner in which you were brought here, and your Quest will meet with success. *With that, those on the Quest followed their guides and were soon on the surface and in their boats.*
Hardin:*He was still angered over what happened but hadn't said anything. They were leaving that underwater world and that's all that mattered to him. It was just before dawn as the canoes left the shore and glided upriver, and he couldn't hold it in anymore.*
Hardin: Wells, what the hell just happened down there? As I see it, they attacked us and dragged us underwater to their sea shell homes, fed us and let us go. All this to 'protect us' from some one? Something doesn't feel right about the whole thing!
*He kept his eyes on the shore ahead and then behind them as they paddled. The sun was just starting to show itself and the river was calm.*
Hardin:If we pop up somewhere else on this River each time we die, why would they care what happens to us? Death means nothing here yet they kept us shackled so no one would die. If we didn't promise to behave ourselves they would've pushed us out as if it were some kind of punishment. I don't like it, don't like it at all. Those fish people are up to something and the further from them we get the better I'll feel.
H.G.: Maybe they protected us because they wanted us to succeed as a group. It is my understanding that when one "dies" here, he or she is usually ressurected in another part of the River. I can't blame them for binding us. Though we were protecting ourselves against an unknown danger, we did kill one of their members. Strange that nothing was said about that.
*At the north pole of the Riverworld, long past the last grailstone,in the center of a great icy sea, is the headquarters of the Ethical Council of Twelve, a huge structure known as the Dark Tower. A mile tall and ten miles in diameter. In the Council chambers, a meeting of the Ethicals is being held.*
One: It is my understanding that the Group has reappeared on the River?
Three: Yes. The Group that is being monitored should have been stopped by the Night Raiders, but we believe that a renegade Ethical calling himself the Mysterious Stranger or simply X, has taken the form of one of the Group and is aiding them for some reason that we can not now condescend. He may even be here at this moment.
*Back on the River, Annie and Musashi are talking as they paddle.*
Musashi: So Little One, you say that the Stranger spoke with you in the world below?
Annie: Yes. You were still sleepin' when he came to me. I thought that his message meant that he was goin' to try to stop us, but he told me to trust the Aquatainians. I'm sorry, but things went so fast that I had no time to tell you or the others about his visit.
Musashi: We must tell the others, especially Hardin about this as soon as possible!
H.G.: *Speaking to Hardin.* These people cannot be what they seem. I am a little concerned with their technology also. It seems like somthing from one of my novels! How did they manage to build their breathing nets, and dome on this world? I am concerned that we have unwittingly told those who have built this world much that we should not. Perhaps we should modify our plans? I think we need to discuss this as a group.
*At a signal from Annie, the three canoes moved toward a grailstone on the banks of what appeared to be uninhabited land. Five of the six people pulled the canoes up on the shore while Hardin stood guard, prepared to deal with any problems. Then the members placed their grails into the depressions in the grailstone, and after an energy discharge, the members took their grails out and opened the hinged lid.
The grails contained food, an alcoholic drink, tobacco, a drug in the form of "dream gum", and other personal items.*
Ben: It continues to amaze me how these grailstones can supply us with things like this. It's almost like magic. Before this adventure began, I was working on an idea that may allow us to utilize the energy source of these grailstones.
Musashi: Little Sister has information that all of you should know.
Annie: Yes. Musashi was still sleepin' when I woke up. Over me was a stranger with a hood coverin' his head and hidin' his face. When he spoke, he said that he was here to help us, and to trust the Aquatainians. I'm sorry, but things went so fast that I had no time to tell you until now.
*As Annie spoke Hardin looked over at Welles. They were just discussing that very point and now they had some interesting information to think over. He shook his head.*
Hardin:Trust those fish people? Sorry little lady but I just don't. Something ain't right about them.
*He put his hands on his hips as he thought it over before finishing.*
Hardin: I was just telling Wells that they don't seem on the up and up and he agrees. Think about this for a minute. First they attack us and drag us down to the river bottom. We wake up all tied up and then for no apparent reason, they untie us, feed us and bring us back to the surface. Why? Now you're telling us that one of them came to you and said we should trust them. But he wouldn't let you see his face. Now doesn't that sound a bit unsettling?
*He sat down and ate some of the hot food from the grail all the time shaking his head. He opened the bottle and drank some of the alcoholic drink and spat it out.*
Hardin: I'll tell you one thing, whoever is responsible for this River ain't perfect. I understand that everyone's grail is filled with food and supplies for each person individually. Customized, you might say. Well, this is Scotch whisky and my preference has always been bourbon. And this dream gum.
*As he spoke he tossed it into the river.*
Hardin: I've thrown every piece into the water, ever since I saw what it can do to a man, and they still put it in my grail. Like I just said, they ain't perfect.
*With that he smiled. He looked at each of the others than took out a pipe he had made from reeds, filled it with the tobacco and lit. He slowly let out a puff of smoke.*
Hardin: At least this is good. If any of you don't want your's I'll be glad to help you out and relieve you of the burden. And speaking of burdens, I've seen these grails used a lot of different ways even if they couldn't be opened. Since they weigh very little, I saw no reason to leave them behind when we first took the canoes. One never knows when they might come in handy.
*He stood up, grabbed his hammer, and walked a few feet from the others. He looked around the shore and all the way back into the trees but saw nothing.*
Hardin: Sure is quiet around here. I wonder how many areas are like this along the River?
Annie: But whoever he was, he wasn't one of the Aquatainians. I can't tell you how I knew, but I just knew. I was also knew that I could trust him.
*Ben who seemed to be in another world, suddenly jumped up from where he had been seating.*
Ben: I believe that you have done us a great favor Mr. Hardin. The three grails can't be opened, but I believe that they can store and discharge electricity like a Leyden jar. Sorry. I'm so excited that I am forgetting that you are not scientists. Just let me say that if my theory is correct, we may have a small power source using the extra grails and that grailstone. Do you think that we can safely spend some time here so I may see if my theory is correct?
*Turning toward Hardin he said*
Ben: I will certainly trade you my tobacco for your Scotch whiskey.
*Shaking his head *
Hardin:I don't like it. I don't think this mystery man can be trusted any more than those fish people. Call it a gut feeling or whatever you want. Keep in mind that all we've got to go on is their word that they were helping us.We never saw who they were saving us from, did we? I didn't, did any of you?
*Looking around at the others*
Hardin: How about the rest of you? How do you all feel about these new turn of events? She says we should trust the fish folks but I don't and I think Wells agrees with me. What about the rest of you? Not one of you three has said anything yet.
*He tossed the rest of the container with the Scotch to Ben.*
Hardin: Here's what's left, what I didn't drink or spit out. You can have any more they give me.
*He picked up a grail and then looked over at the grailstone. Again shaking his head*
Hardin: I don't see how you can use this and that monster mushroom. Aren't you going to need something else? Tools, supplies?
*He looked over the beach where they stopped.*
Hardin: I don't see anything here that you'll be able to use but the ground rises over there and then drops forming a low spot. We can drag the canoes over there and they'll be hidden from anyone on the river. I haven't seen tracks of any kind or any indications that anyone has been here so this may be a good spot to stay a while if all of you think it's a good idea. I haven't seen too many spots along the river that were this empty either.*He climbed to the top of the rise.* Hardin: Come to think of it, I don't recall seeing anything along the River that had this kind of low spot this close to the water either but I haven't seen that much of the river. What about the rest of you, ever seen any area like this before? Or am I just over-suspicious because of what's happened?
Ben: Thank you Hardin. You may have whatever tobacco my grail provides. I tend to be wary as to the Aquatainian's motivation in saving us from the "evil ones", but though I also believe in Annie's positive feelings, we should be alert to any danger.
H.G.: Yes old chap. I'm apt to agree with you. One never knows whom to trust in unknown situations like this, so I as well say heads up.
Musashi: Having walked with Little Sister before I have come to trust her instincts, but I too say that we should be weary.
Simon: Oui. I as you say fera attention. Will take care is correct Benjamin mon ami?
*Ben Franklin smiled at Simon's progress.* Ben: Yes. Bien!
Annie: Though I still feel that the "fish people" as Mr. Hardin calls them, and the mysterious stranger are to be trusted, but I too feel that we must take care.
Musashi: Hardin. To answer your question. In all my time in this Valley of the River, though there may be, I have never seen an area like this where a grailstone is available for use, but there is no one. Your suggestion to move the canoes sounds good, but until we can answer the why of this emptiness I would suggest that we wait.
*Hardin nodded as everyone spoke, understanding but obviously not agreeing completely.*
Hardin: All right, I agree with waiting but everyone has to keep your eyes open. Everyone. I'll move upriver a hundred yards or so and keep watch, One of you two, *gesturing to Simon and H.G.* go downriver and watch for anyone following us and the other go inland, also only about 100 yards. Keep each of us in sight and we should be OK. The rest can I guess, help figure out how to use that thing *pointing to grailstone. Hardin left and headed upriver.*
*As Hardin quickly moved upriver, Simon and H.G. looked toward Annie quizzically.*
Annie: Impulsive isn't he? But an excellent strategist. As he suggested. Go down river and take care. Musashi and I will give Ben an opportunity to work on his theory using the extra grails and the grailstone.
*Ben and the others walked over to the three foot high, broad mushroom-shaped grailstone, and Ben took one of the three extra grails and placed it into one of the 700 depressions in its flattened top. Nothing happened.*
Ben: Damn!
Annie: What's the matter Ben?
Ben: Nothing Annie. Just had a theory tossed out the window!
*Ben took the grail out of the depression.*
Ben: AHHHHHH! *Annie and Musashi looked and saw Ben laying on his back on the ground a short distance from the grailstone. Musashi ran toward where Ben lay*
Annie: Ben! Are you all right?
Ben: I'm a bit shocked but otherwise I am fine. *Rising from the ground Ben thought to himself. I wonder.*
Musashi: It appears that you have discovered something?
Ben: Yes! I think I have. But I need to try a number of experiments, and hopefully we won't be disturbed while I'm doing them. Excuse me. *Ben walked back to where he had dropped the extra grail, bent down, and carefully picked it up touching only the strap which was made of some kind of transparent material. He then called to Annie* Ben: Dear girl. Would you please bring my grail over here?
*Annie went to the pile of belongings and pulled a grail from Ben's webbed pack and brought it over to him. Ben then carefully holding the two grails by their straps, brought the bottoms together. As they touched, an intense blue flash of light seemed to move between them, and a sound like thunder could be heard echoing off the high mountains. Then Ben very carefully opened the hinged lid of his grail and peered inside* Ben: Extraordinary! Quickly! Give me your grail!
Annie: What happened?
Ben: Later Annie! Please give me your grail! *Annie complied and Ben again took the extra grail and Annie's, brought their bottoms together, and again the flash of light and the sound like thunder.*
Ben: Open your grail and look inside!
*Annie did as she had been instructed.* Annie: My Gosh! There's food in here, and it ain't breakfast, lunch, nor dinner either!
Ben: Musashi. Give me your grail.Please. *Ben again followed the previous procedure with the same results, and when Musashi opened his grail he too found food. In the meantime, the noise had brought back the others.*
Ben: H.G. Please let me have your grail for a moment. *Again Ben did what he had done before, then instructed H.G. to open his grail.*
H.G.: I say old boy. What am I supposed to see in here?
*Ben took the grail from H.G., and checked each of the cups within it* Ben: I can't say for sure, but I think that there is a limit to the "magic" that a charged grail can perform.
*Hardin heard the sound of thunder and turned around. Then he saw the blue light flash from the area of the grailstone. He cursed loudly and ran back.*
Hardin: WHAT HAPPENED? What's going on?
*Then he watched as Ben touched the extra grail to the others and had everyone open them. He shook his head and cursed at Ben.*
Hardin: What the hell is wrong with you? You could have warned us that this might happen. And then you went and kept it up! I thought we were trying to keep our presence here a secret!
*Again he walked away shaking his head and cursing to himself. Realizing what just happened he stopped and turned back. *
Hardin: Wait a minute! What the hell just happened? You put one of the extra grails in the mushroom and nothing happened, right? Then when you touched it to one of our grails there was a blue light, thunder, and like magic, our grails were filled with food?
*He stopped talking and looked at Ben then the others, and then the grail stone. He shook his head.*
Hardin: No, that's not right. We put our grails up there *pointing at the grail stone* and then there's a blue flash and thunder. That's when our grails were filled. This is all wrong here.
*He started to look around slowly for other points that might be wrong.*
Hadin: Now I'm startin' to feel real uneasy about this place. *pointing at the rise he noticed before* And this, this isn't anywhere else either. Anyone want to put odds on the fact that there's something hidden under it? *He fingered his hammer as he slowly walked up the slight rise. Then he smiled slightly.* Hardin: Feels the same as everywhere else. No, it actually feels a bit harder.
*He walked back to Annie and spoke carefully.*
Hardin: I'm inclined to see what's under that but all we have that will do us any good is this. *holding up the hammer*.
You're the boss but I'm suggesting we go back to the canoes right now and making some decisions. Like, what we're going to do now, and what will we do if all that blasted noise attracts some undesirables. Do we run or do we try and hide here? I know he wants to do his damned experiments but my vote is for getting back in the canoes and moving out before it's too late.*looking around as if expecting trouble* But we should decide right now.
Ben: Sorry Mr. Hardin. I had no idea as to what would or what wouldn't happen, so cursing at me would only raise your blood pressure if that is possible here. Continuing my experiments up was necesssary, and showed that we no longer need to be total slaves to the grailstones for our necessities, and since my experiments are finished for the moment. His cursing aside, I'm with Mr. Hardin in now moving on.
*With that, the group went to the canoes and continued on their journey.*
*At the north pole of the Riverworld, long past the last grailstone, is a great icy sea, the source and mouth of the River. In the midst of this sea is the headquarters of the Ethical Council, a huge structure known as the Dark Tower. Here are the twelve humans raised on the Gardenworld and chosen to lead the Riverworld project, called The Ethical Council of Twelve. These are the ones responsible for the system of grailstones, for monitoring the progress of the Valleydwellers, and for dealing with anything or anyone that interfered with a prime directive of non-interference with the progress of Valleydwellers or endangered the Project in any way.
The six men and six women were now meeting to discuss the happenings in the Valley of the River*
One: So they have discovered a means that we were unaware of to secure the grail offerings without the total necessity of being near a grailstone?
Six: Yes. This might allow them to store enough extra and free grails for energy to matter conversions where no grailstones exist.
Eleven: And cause a danger if for any chance they succeed in reaching the polar sea.
Five: Is that renegade still helping them in defiance of the non-intereference directive?
Two: Yes. Ten is with the Aquatainians to see if they have any information of the visit by this so-called Mysterious Stranger or just X.
Nine: And one of our members is this X is one of our members? I see that Three, Four, and Seven are not present.
One: Yes. They are on missions at this moment
Eleven: Does anyone have a suggestion that could help us do something about these problems?
*Before they climbed back into the canoes, Hardin spoke up.*
Hardin: Blast my blood pressure or whatever that is of mine you're so concerned about. You may want to consider the safety of your friends here before telling the entire valley where we are. I don't mind dying as long as I'm going to wake up somewere else on this river but the rest might object some. Now are you telling us that you plan to use these extra grails as something like those mushrooms that we can carry with us? If that's true, maybe we ought to put those extra grails in the front or back of the canoes, away from any other grail. I for one don't want any of those grails touching each other while we're in the middle of the river.
Ben: Again, a very wise idea Mr. Hardin, delivered in your own inimitable way.
Hardin: Hey Boss Lady. In my time we were taught that the North Pole was covered in ice and snow. Do you think its the same on this world? I'm willin' to wager a month's supply of grail booze that it is, and if I'm right, how are we going to travel up there dressed like this? I haven't seen any animals to make a fur coat out of. In fact I haven't seen any animals period. I'm not complainin' mind you. I'm just givin' you something to think about.
Annie: First. The only person to call me Boss Lady was my husband Frank, and he always used it in a caring manner! As to the possibility that the climate at the pole of this Riverworld is similar to that on Earth, and that we would need clothing to protect us against cold temperatures. The rectangles of towel-like cloth are very tough, and the insulating properties. We are supplied with this cloth from time to time in our grails, and I have saved what I've not used. Hopefully others have as well, or will do so. I'm sure that layers of this towel cloth may be used as protection.
Musashi: You are correct Hardin. There are no other animals as could be found on Earth, but the vegetation, the skin and other parts of the River creatures can be used for many purposes.
NOTE: Click on Riverworld Resources
*He nodded his head as if in agreement with the idea. Then everyone climbed into the canoes and pushed off.*
Staying away from the shores to avoid any possible problems with those nations that might be unfriendly, the three canoes moved up the River.
*Speaking to Miyumoto Musashi Annie said,* Annie: Gettin' near dark. 'bout time we all got together an figured out where we are gonna hole up for the night. Whyn't you stop paddlin' and I'll signal t'others to come here.*She put the bamboo whistle to her mouth and just as she was about to blow it, she noticed something in the distance coming down the River toward them. As the object got closer it could be seen to be a very large bamboo raft with one sail and what looked to be a wooden cabin near its center.*
Musashi: Little Sister. They are coming directly toward us! Either they don't see us, or they are attempting to ram us!
Annie: Paddle Big Brother! Paddle as hard as you can!
*Try as they might their efforts were in vain.*
Once again, When Annie awoke, she found herself tied hand and foot with Musashi near her in the same state. They were inside, and around them were two people.*
*As Annie stirred and finally opened her eyes one of the two men standing over them nodded to the other.*
Man 1: Ok, they're both awake now. Go tell the Cap'n.
*Both were large black men, not so much tall but wide and both wore grail towels and what looked like leather belts around their waists. In their belts each carried a knife. One disappeared up a short ladder/stairs and returned shortly.*
Man 2: Cap'n says bring 'em up.
Man 1: C'mon you two, someone wants to see ya.
*The two men pulled up the prisoners firmly but not too roughly and then carried them up the few steps. Once on deck, the prisoners found that they were on the lighted deck of a very large bamboo boat, apparently the same one that had rammed them earlier. The boat was larger than most on the river and seemed to be be built quite sturdily. The cabin sat in the middle of the deck and there was a mast with one large sail. On the bow was a strange apparatus and there was similar one on the stern. There were also oars lined up, not being used now because there was a fair wind.
The prisoners stood up up facing a man and a woman. The man stood with his fists on his hips and was dressed in a leather skirt, vest and sandals, all made from the hide of the dragon fish. He also wore sleeves of leather that just covered his forearms. Around his neck was a string of what appeared to be the vertebrae and horn of the Horn-fish. He was well built, very muscular, about 5'10" with long black hair tied back and black eyes, and extremely tanned.
The woman was shorter, about 5'6" and also well built, or well endowed would be a better description. Her hair was also black, longer than the man's and braided but her eyes were light blue and she too was well tanned. Her clothes can best be described as almost non-existent being made of grail towels with just enough to barely cover the important areas and was barefoot. She also wore a skirt made of strings that hung from her hips which obviously for show since it covered very little. She wore the same necklace as the man and a headband of cloth with a symbol in the middle. Around them stood the rest of the crew, men and women, all tanned, well built and dressed in grail towels or dragon-fish leather.*
Man 1: Here they be, Cap'n. Neither looks to be any worse for what 'appened to 'em. Now you two be polite and 'spectful in the presence of Cap'n Bonny, the scourge of the Seven Seas and meanest, nastiest pirate on this 'ere River.
*Darkness started to fall upon the River and it was time to stop for the night. Hardin was having trouble seeing the lead canoe in the distance. He glanced to the right at the distant shore, and all seemed quiet there, then he looked to the left and saw the canoe with Simon and Ben. He waved to them and they signaled back.*
Hardin: Wells, they're getting too far ahead again. We need to catch them so we can stop for the night.
*He signaled the other canoe about his intention to catch the lead boat and all four men started paddling faster. They were gaining ground when Hardin saw the very large bamboo boat heading for Annie and Musashi.*
Hardin: Something's wrong. That boat's gonna hit them. *yelling to the lead canoe* LOOK OUT!!!
*The bamboo boat hit the lead canoe and sunk it instantly and then turned to go back apparently not seeing the other two canoes but as it turned around, the huge wake it made overturned both of them sending all 4 men into the river. Hardin went deep under and as he rose to the surface he was kicked in the face by HG. When he reached the surface, he found that his nose was bleeding. He looked around and saw HG struggling with the grails he grabbed as they went over. He swam over and helped him carry some then looked for the others. He watched as the big boat slowed down and picked up Annie and Musashi.
Soon the four men made their way to shore. Once they caught their breath Hardin stood up and cursed.*
Hardin: Well, we can't just sit here. We have to find that boat and the others. Now, c'mon, let's go.Thanks to you we have two grails, *gently touching his nose* and one broken nose. Did you two manage to save anything?
*Hardin was holding his own grail and the extra grail that was at the rear of the canoe. H.G.also had his grail attached to wrist as did Simon and Ben, who had also saved the extra grail from his canoe.
((Note: Extra grails are those that can only be opened by their original owner. Free Grails are very rare and very valuable, as they can be used by anyone.))
*The deck of the boat shown with light from what Annie assumed was fish oil as she looked around. Estimating that there were about 10 people on the deck of the boat, and looking at whom she presumed was the leader, she spoke.*
Annie: My name is Annie Oakley, my Big Brother is Miyumoto Musashi. Now who do I thank for savin' us from drownin', and ask that our hands and feet be untied?
On an unknown bank of the River, four men stood. They could see lights towards the middle of the River, which they assumed were eminating from the deck of the large bamboo boat that had picked up Annie and Musashi. It was heading toward where they stood.
*Ben was looking first at the River, then at his companions.*
Ben: This is certainly a fine mess we're in. Now what do we do? I have a knife.
H.G.: And I also have my knife.
Simon: J'ai aussi mon couteau.
Ben: Then we have three knives. What about you Hardin? Did you manage to keep your knife as well?
*While Annie and Musashi were on deck standing before Captain Bonnie, the boat headed for the near shore in order to moor for the night and be ready to charge the grails of all on board in the morning.*
*The half naked woman slowly walked in front of the two captives. She looked Annie in the eye and in a heavy Irish brogue said*
Bonnie: I am Captain Bonnie and right now you're in no position to ask for anything. My crew and I own this part of the river and no one sails upon it without my permission. Those who do pay dearly.
*She walked back behind the man who was obviously second in command and climbed up two steps to a small platform.* Bonnie: From that last bend in the river to the south *pointing* all the way up to where the grailstones thin out is mine. Ten days sailing and over seven hundred miles.
*One of the men in the crew chuckled then quickly stopped. Bonnie gave him a slight look then returned her gaze to Annie.* Bonnie: What that little sound means is that there's a section about three days north of here, about seventy-five miles long that is mine but only the water. *She smiled.* Bonnie: We tend to stay away from it in the daylight and if the tide and winds are with us we can pass through it in one night. Now, since you are here on MY river and you've already told me that you know nothing of me you must be running away from someone. That implies that you stole that canoe otherwise whoever sold it to you would have warned you not to venture this far north. No one sails this far north. No one. That is, no one without a damn good reason. Now if you have a good reason it just might save you. *She looked up at the sky and then with a frown looked at the shore.* Bonnie: Mister Nemo! Why are we heading for shore? I didn't order settling down for the night. The wind will be coming off the other shore in the morning. Across the river is where we'll moor for the night.
*The black haired woman looked at the crew then barked orders to turn the ship around and head back out onto the water.*
Second: The crew was apparently preoccupied with the prisoners Captain, and the wind caught us.
*The ship turned smoothly and moved north.*
Second: And what of the prisoners Captain? *Bonnie looked back at them and smiled.* Bonnie: Bring them below, we'll try them in the morning.
Mister Kan, weren't you on lookout just now?
*An Arab looking crewman started to stutter and shake his head. Bonnie just looked at him with no change of expression.*
Bonnie: Take him below with the prisoners.
*Two men grabbed him and brought him below with Annie and Musashi, tying him to a support pole.*
*Hardin nodded as he looked at the lights.*
Hardin: It's coming this way. There must be a dock around here somewhere. Let's get back in the high grass. We can use it to hide until we know more about who's on the boat.
*They ran into the high grass just far enough so they wouldn't be seen and yet they could still see what was happening. Hardin was kneeling and cursing half to himself and half out loud when he had a thought.*
Hardin: Its not a dock they're looking for, it's a grailstone. There should be one nearby. Let's find it and try to get close enough to hear them if they say anything worth hearing. There's no sense in us getting ourselves captured if these people have already killed off the others. *He stopped for a moment obviously thinking deeply* Wait a minute. Is there any way to use a charged up grail against someone? You know, that bolt of blue lightning could be pretty useful. It'll give you something to think about Franklin while we're waiting.
H.G.: I say chaps. It would appear from the lights that the boat is turning and appears to be headed towards the opposite shore. And, here we are without even a paddle.
Simon: Mon Dieu! Cette un miracle!
Ben: What's wrong Simon?
Simon: Les canoas! Ils sont ici!
Ben: Where?
*Pointing to the dark waters, Simon said*
Simon: ICI!
*Just in front of him were two bulky shapes like small beached whales.*
Ben: Someone up there is smiling on us gentlemen. Simon has just discovered what appears to be our canoes. Belly up, but after we turn them over they will hopefully be usable.
* It didn't take the four men long to right the two canoes, and because everything had been tied down, most of the weapons and supplies were wet but other than that in good condition and even the paddles had in some manner remained within the overturned canoes, so the four took advantage of the darkness and started across the River following behind the lights of the bamboo boat.*
Hardin: That boat has quite a lead on us but if it stops near one of the next few mushrooms we'll be able to catch it. Wells, just keep your eyes on the lights so we don't lose it.
*The big boat glided across the water heading north, eventually stopping at the mouth of a small cove on the other side of the river. A grailstone stood on the shore not far from the cove. The two canoes glided silently behind the boat. Once the big boat stopped, the four men were able to catch up. Soon they were about 200 yards away. Hardin signaled and the two canoes came along side each other. Hardin in a low voice.*
Hardin: Comes daylight, they'll most likely go ashore to fill their grails for breakfast. They may even have someone there now as a lookout. Since this area of the River is pretty empty of people they may only have one lookout on the ship. Ben, you and Frenchie approach the ship on this side and try to board her near the bow. Wells and I will circle further out on the river and come in from the other side near the stern. You can translate for him when I'm done. Approach the boat the board as soon as possible. We should get to the other side not too long after. The boat doesn't look too big so the crew shouldn't outnumber us by too much. Coming from two sides and having four of us may just be enough to overpower them and get the other two out. Once we have them free head for shore,turn south and head inland. We'll do the same and meet up at one of the mushrooms downriver.
*He nodded and waited as Ben translated the instructions for Simon.*
Hardin: One last thing. If those two are already dead then get off the boat as soon as possible and we'll still meet downriver. If they're still alive then they shouldn't be too hard to find. OK, let's go.
*He lifted his paddle out of the water and gently tapped the paddle from the other canoe*
Hardin: See you all in Hell.
*Hardin and H.G. paddled out and around the boat coming in silently from the other side. From the canoes they couldn't see anyone on deck. Hardin smiled at this and nodded. The canoe pulled along side the boat and both men climbed aboard. As Hardin cleared the railing he realized how quiet it was. *thinking to himself*
Hardin: Where the hell are Ben and Simon?
*Ben and Simon had gotten aboard the bamboo boat, and disposed of the lone lookout. They then found stairs in the on deck cabin and went down into what appeared to be the crews quarters. Tied to one of the support poles was a stranger. To another support pole was Annie and Musashi. The rope-like bonds around the pair were expertly tied though Musashi had almost gotten some of his off when Ben and Simon arrived.*
Ben: Here we are to rescue our little Annie and her big brother.
*Ben and Simon walked over to the two and untied their bonds.*
Annie: We thought that we'd never see you again. Where are Hardin and H.G.?
Ben: Hopefully they're on deck. When we got on board Simon silenced what appeared to be the only lookout and then we went looking for you two.
Annie: Then with that crew man tied over there, we need only face the woman captain, her second in command, and six crew members.
*At that moment, the tied crew member Mr. Kan decided to start yelling a warning. Musashi went over to him and pressing his finger at Kan's neck, the crew man stopped yelling.*
Musashi: He will be fine in three or four hours.
Annie: I think we need to get up on deck. Do you and the others have weapons?
Ben: Yes, but that is a long story that will have to wait until things calm down.
*With that the four members of the Quest went up to the deck. There they were met by H.G. and Hardin who was angry at Ben and Simon for not following his instructions. With a smile on her face, Annie said* Annie: I see that you are your jolly self again Mr. Hardin. Ben and Simon followed my orders to find you and H.G. so we may make plans to take this Night Rider boat away from Captain Bonnie and her crew and make it our own. With one tied below and the sole lookout taken out, we need only face eight pirates when they come back on board. Musashi silenced one crew member below using something he learned, and he has suggested that he do the same to the lookout and prop him up where he was on the cabin roof. If we can hide and take out the remainder of the crew one or two at a time when they return, we'll have a boat with which to continue the Quest, and we can use the Night Rider reputation as protection against many unfriendly Nations on the River's banks.
*Simon excitedly spoke with Ben translating.*
Ben: Simon suggests that we place two of our members hidden behind the bamboo sides of the boat on either side of the gangplank opening, and the other two in the deck cabin. I too have what might be a formidable weapon that may very well give us an advantage.
*The group set themselves up with Ben, Annie, H.G. and Simon on each side of the gangplank opening, Musashi and Hardin hidden in the cabin, and the lookout on the cabin's top unable to move or cry out.*
* The sun had risen and the grailstone had discharged with a thunderous sound, and the six could hear the voices of the Night Riders coming back. The first came up the bamboo gangway not seeing those who were hidden on either side. Then the others came aboard. Captain Bonnie was the last to come on deck. Suddenly a blue flame leapt from Ben to the Captain, and as she slumped to the deck all hell broke loose. Musashi leapt from the cabin door and onto a very muscular black man, and hey wrestled on the deck. Hardin used his axe to put another hulking pirate down. Annie dealt with a woman with a basalt knife, Simon took on another very large pirate, as another blue flash sprang from Ben to knock the Captain's second in command to the boat's deck, as H.G. slammed his fist into the jaw of another pirate, while Hardin took care of the final crew member.*
H.G.: By jove! I think my hand is broken, but it seems that we are the victors.
*Strong fibers were found on the deck, and the pirate crew were tied hand and foot.*
Annie: *Speaking to Ben* What was that strange blue flash that seemed to be coming from you?
Ben: I'll explain when things settle down. I believe that now we are the very tired owners of this boat.
*Captain Bonnie shook off the effects of getting hit with the blue flash and looked around at her crew. Once her eyes were clear she looked Annie in the eye and without struggling against her bonds she spoke calmly.*
Bonnie: Now what? You've killed off some of my crew and appear to have enough to make up for them but *looking at the members of the Quest.* I'm not so sure they can. This ship, The Queen's Gambit, is not an easy ship to run and you look less than capable. Obviously you want this ship and a crew to sail her. Why else are we still alive? My crew has always been loyal to me but under these conditions they can decide for themselves what to do.*smiling at Annie* And what of the rest of us? What will you do, kill us? You must, you have no choice. You won't be able to trust anyone who decides to go with you. They're pirates and at any moment they could change their allegience back to me. But you won't kill us, none of you have it in you, except you. *looking at Hardin*. You can tell alot by a person's eyes.
Nemo: I for one will not abandon my captain. Whatever you do to her you will have to do to me also.
Bonnie: So, what will it be? But I'll tell you this, you can't sail the Queen's Gambit without this crew. And you'll never make the next bend in the river with only the six of you.
*Then one by one the crew called out*
Crewman: We're with you Cap'n Bonnie! We'll sail under no one else.
*But not everyone of the crew spoke up.*
*After the skirmish and as everyone caught their breath Hardin walked around the deck examining the boat. He looked over the strange machinery on the bow and stern but made no indication as to whether he knew what it was. As he passed Ben he looked down at the grail and made sure he stayed clear of it.*
Hardin: I'll keep my distance. You might get excited again and start waving that thing and I don't want to be in its path.
*He looked over at Captain Bonnie and smiled, shaking his head to himself. Things sure were different here. He was following a woman and a woman was captain of this ship. He thought that over for a while and then looked at H.G., Ben and Simon. He'd have to talk to them later.*
Hardin: OK, we now have ourselves a boat that looks sturdy enough to get us upriver and what looks like quite a bit of food and other supplies in the hold. Why don't we just toss them over the side and leave? Oh, I forgot,*in a sarcastic tone* we need to vote on what to do with them. Whatever it is, you better decide fast. It looks like we're going to have some company in about 15-20 minutes.
*He pointed to the shore about a mile down river where a large group of about 100 men was headed their way.*
Annie: You are correct Captain Bonnie. We could use your help on the Quest to find the Dark Tower and it's wonders beyond imagining within it.
*The eyes of the remaining pirates showed that Annie had gotten their attention.*
Annie: But you are not correct in your assumption that our members are inexperienced. H.G. won a number of sailing awards during his years on Earth, and Ben gained a great deal of nautical experience as well.
Musashi: And I have learned from necessity many skills on this River during my many years here.
Simon:J'ai aussi l'experience avec l'operation des metiers de l'eau.
Ben: Simon said that he too is an experienced seaman.
Annie: I admit that I have very little experience on the water other than what I have picked up here, but my husband Frank always said that I was a quick learner. Now. As Mr. Hardin has said. We need to get out of here before that reception committee arrives, so you can make up your minds. Go with us to find that Dark Tower and whatever treasures that exist within it, or you can skedaddle off this boat and take your chances. But I warn anyone that stays to do us mischief. Mr. Hardin would like nothing better then to toss you overboard in a manner that won't be pleasurable.
Bonnie: It is not sailing experience you need to sail the Queen's Gambit. She was designed by Mr. Nemo with the help of Mr. Sax, who, thanks to you, will wake up on another part of the river tomorrow morning. Mr Sax designed an engine which runs off of sunlight, the details of which were in his head and that of Mr. Nemo. The sail is a backup but in order to use it the sun engine needs to be off. You might notice a slight vibration in the deck. That's the sun engine, which we leave it on overnight.
*Bonnie turned and looked down the river at the approaching men. Looking back at Annie*
Bonnie: You see dearie, you need us more than we need you. You want the Queen's Gambit to sail north. If that tribe overtakes us, they'll simply kill all of us. Me, I'll wake up somewhere and start over with a new crew and new ship but you, you need this boat. And you need Nemo and myself, we're the only ones who know everything about this ship now. And this ship will never leave this spot in time without this crew who can't sail the ship without us two. I'd say there's a hundred or more in that tribe so, as you so eloquently put it, you need to make up your minds. Set us all free to sail out of here or lose the ship and wake up who knows where tomorrow.
*The approaching tribe was now about one half mile away and now they started to run down the beach towards the ship.*
*Hardin stepped back to the gangplank and watched the men on the beach approaching as H.G. moved along side him.*
Hardin: What we don't need right now is two women too stubborn to give in to each other. We have a bit more than ten minutes before that group is all over us and even though I know we'll wake up again I don't relish the idea of dying right now. Personally, I hope Annie gives in. Its not that I trust that pirate queen, even though she is quite pretty and more than appealing. I just think she's right about this boat. We need them to get the hell out of here.
*He pointed out the problems of setting sail to H.G. The boat was sitting in the sand in shallow water and they were no more than 30 feet from the beach. The gangplank ran out about 25 feet with one end on the boat and the other just short of the beach. The wind was too light to free them and the only way he could see to set sail was for most of the crew to jump in and push the boat out. This would lighten the boat and it would sit higher in the water and the extra muscle might be enough to do the job. The other option a was to use the engine. Either choice required the cooperation of Captain Bonnie and her crew.*
Hardin: There's something about that woman. It could be he fact that she's half naked but I've always had a soft spot for a blue eyed lass with an Irish accent.
*He checked the progress of the advancing men then walked over to Annie.*
Hardin: *speaking low so no one else heard* We're running out of time. Why not get her word that if we untie her she'll take us a hundred miles or so upriver. That way we'll have a chance to get this boat back. I don't trust her any more than you do but my gut feeling is that her word is good. The worst that will happen is they'll kill us later on. That's better than dying now.
Annie: So we both agree that there is a need to work together at least at this time. You could "die" and wake in the morning, but it would be without your crew and without the Queen's Gambit, and we would lose our chance at getting to and into the Dark Tower and it's myriad treasures. Untie Captain Bonnie and her Second. I believe you called him Nemo, Captain? And the other three. I would also suggest that Mr.Kan be released as we will need all hands on deck to get us off. *Turning to Captain Bonnie Annie said,* I hope that when we're out of this mess we can either decide to part company or we can join together for the benefit of yourself, your crew and ourselves.
*Annie untied the pirate captain's bonds and gave her a hand up.*
*Bonnie smiled as she was untied. Instantly she turned to the crew and started giving orders.*
Bonnie: Miss Linska, up to the nest! Mr Nemo, to the helm. Everyone else, over the port side! *To Annie* That includes your men too, and you go to the bow and watch her *pointing the girl with the short blonde hair climbing up the mast.*
*The entire crew along with the members of the Quest all climbed overboard on the shallow side. Along each side of the ship just about the waterline was a row of bamboo bars. The crew grabbed the bar on one side of the ship and on the Captain's command lifted and pushed. The ship lifted in the water and moved a few feet. It was not quite enough and the crew again grabbed the bar and again Bonnie gave the order. Everyone lifted together and the ship moved back. This time the ship floated. The crew then climbed aboard helping those of the Quest after them. Bonnie looked up at the crow's nest where the lookout was givng directions with her arms.*
Bonnie: Hard to starboard Mr Nemo. There's shallow water ahead! Hoist the sail! All the way up!
*The ship slowly turned to the right as the sail went up revealing a large chess symbol for the Queen. The wind caught the sail, moving the ship slowly away from the shore.*
Bonnie: Everyone to the starboard rail! *To Annie* You stay on the bow!
*Everyone moved to the starboard rail and the ship leaned slightly. That gave the ship enough weight on one side to cause it to turn sharper and the Queen's Gambit slid out into the safety of the River. Once the ship was underway Bonnie gave more orders to the crew who went off to perform their chores and then she headed for the bow to talk to Annie.*
Bonnie: My crew performs well, does it not? It took 2-3 minutes to get underway, something you never could have done. The wind is stronger in the middle of the river and in a few minutes we'll be at full speed under this sail. Now, if you and your crew will follow me below...
*Bonnie signaled for Nemo to follow which he did after turning the helm over to another member of the crew. The area below the deck was larger than it appeared from the outside. The entire aft part of the ship was one large room, obviously the captain's quarters.Bonnie sat in a large cushioned chair and Nemo stood next to her and the six members of the Quest followed them in. Bonnie placed her fingertips together and crossed her legs.*
Bonnie: What is it about this Tower that is so important that you need to steal my ship and kill my crew?
Annie: We weren't orignially planning to steal your boat. As to killing 4 members of your crew. We are sorry, but our friends found us not free, but tied to a pole below deck. We all felt that we would have to fight to stay alive and continue our Quest. If you wish to hear about the Dark Tower, let us all relax and Musashi and I will tell you.
*After all had seated themselves, Musashi began the tale.*
*At the same time that this meeting was taking place on a bamboo boat on the River, another was taking place in the Ethical Council, within a vast tower one mile tall and ten miles in diameter surrounded by the North Polar Sea of the Riverworld.* One: I must inform you that our plan to stop the six from going any further in their Quest has again been disrupted by the renegade calling him or her self, X.
Twelve: Has any progress been made to ascertain who among our twelve members has betrayed us?
One: No. The only thing we know is that the Aquatainians at the bequest of X brought the two canoes that were upset by the Night Riders' boat surreptitiously back to the shore with the scattered equipment reattached.
Six: It is unfortunate that we are bound by the Non-Obtrusion Accord, to not interefere with the Valleydwellers.
THE TALE OF THE QUEST
Musashi: It was when I first awakened from my death on this Riverworld that I heard the tale of the first Quest. It was told by a giant First Man who lived at the dawn of Earth's history. Our group was made up of adventurers from many times and places, and we all listened as we sat around the fire as First Man said.
FM: I lived with my tribe just below the land without grailstones, until a large River vessel came to our land. Young was I then, and when I was told of a wonderous place where the head and tail of the River met, and where great treasures awaited those who found their way there, I went with them. We traveled very far, but we had many stores in our vessel. It grew cold, but our coverings kept us warm. Then we came to the cliffs of the sky. These were so high that even the giant flying things in the land where I was born would not be able to pass over them. This did not bother the Boom Man. He had the secret of booming and used it to open a cave in the side of a cliff. We passed through and then up high on the side of the cliff by a trail only one by one could use, until there it was! In the center of a great water. High into the sky it went further than the eye could see. Then we went down one by one. There at the edge of the great water was a strange shining vessel like that we came up the River in, yet not like it. We were all able to fit into the vessel, and one of our members Klan Dee, put her hand in a place just in front of her, and the strange vessel came to life and moved like a Dragonfish. As we came closer to a dark tower, a hole opened in its wall and the vessel entered and then stopped where we were able to step from it into a tunnel which had small suns on its walls that allowed us to see our way. Klan Dee looked at strange markings on the wall and told us to place our grails into openings in the wall like those on grailstones, then open them and take out what we found. We did this, and upon opening our grails, we found strange masks like my tribe used when asking the spirits to help us. Klan Dee then showed us how to put these mask upon our faces, and then told us to sit upon strange chairs that seemed like they were on the back of a giant Serpent Worm. When we sat the "worm" moved down a long, long, tunnel. Then it stopped, and we entered a room of wonders these eyes had only seen in my dreams. Stones of many colors that sparkled with an inner light. Food and drink that appeared upon a table by only thinking of them, and so many other magical things my eyes could not tell me what I saw. Klan Dee found other markings upon the walls that told of a great secret of such wonder that I could not believe it. Then that the madness began. It was then that I ran. I wandered through the tunnels of that dark tower until I found my way back to the vessel. I pushed on the place where Klan Dee had pushed and the vessel brought me back to the trail. I first went up and then I went down the cliff. I went on and on and on for a great long time until I found my way back to my village. There was nothing there but the bodies of all my friends. Then I heard something behind me. Then I found myself here.
Annie: We all went to sleep that night anxious for First Man to tell us what that great secret was when we were attacked. I awoke and met Ben, Simon, H.G. Mr. Hardin, and was surprised to see my Big Brother Musashi again. We are on this Quest to find out what this great secret is, and who put us here and why. Do you have any other questions, and will you join us?
*Bonnie sat in silence for a while then looked up.*
Bonnie: This is not the first time I've *looking at Nemo*, we've, heard of this Tower. I myself have never been near it but I'd like to know what it is.
*Again she was quiet for while as she thought it over. Then as she nodded her head.*
Bonnie: OK, we'll use the Queen's Gambit but keep in mind that I'm the captain and its my ship and crew. We'll be stopping around noon at a grailstone to resupply. I'll put it to the crew and those who want to stay can and the others can leave. With your crew we should set sail with 12, maybe 13. Don't look surprised, I know every member of this crew better than they know themselves. They're a good crew and I'll not force them to go on a mission like this.
*Just after noon the ship pulled over to the side of the river near a grailstone. Not far away was a small village. The crew of the Queen's Gambit and the members of the Quest placed their grails atop the grail stone and soon the blue lightening came and they had their supplies. As they ate Bonnie informed the crew of her decision and told them of their choices. It didn't take long for the crew to separate with 6 of her crew staying on for the trip with the rest heading over to the village to ask if they could stay. The ship set sail again and Bonnie directed the young blonde girl Miss Linska to show the new members of the crew to their new quarters. With one crewman in the crow's nest and Nemo at the helm Bonnie moved to the bow. She stood silently and looked back at the sail as the wind died down. She shook her head and cursed to herself.*
*The new "quarters" were nothing more than bunks, three high on each side in the center of the ship. Arrangements were made for Annie's bunk to be near the bunks of the two remaining women crew members. After the young blonde girl Miss Linska left Hardin spoke up.*
Hardin: I don't know what the rest of you think but this was way too easy. Was it just me or did she agree to taking us to the Tower without thinking too much about it? She's supposed to be some sort of pirate queen and she just let half her crew walk away free as a bird. I know I keep saying ths but something doesn't feel right about this. And look, back there *pointing aft* is her cabin, and there *pointing towards the bow* is all supplies. Notice anything? There's no engine down here.
*Then Hardin shook his head and laughed.*
Hardin: She just bluffed you into setting her and the crew free. And she did a damned good job of it too. She got us all good.
*He leaned to look up the ladder to see if anyone was near the top and listening in.*
Hardin: Well, here we are, on a boat that may get us to the Pole or at least get us close. The question is do we need them to get us there? My opinion, for what its worth, is that this boat is too big for just the six of us to handle. Bonnie and her crew was, what, 10 or 12, right? She knows how to handle this boat and crew, Nemo knows more about that Tower than they let us know and they're all pirates. They'll use us to get to the Tower and then take whatever treasure they find. Our lives will mean nothing to them. And if we die at the Tower who knows if we'll wake up again. She's heard of the Tower before and was still content to stay here. We mention it and suddenly she wants to go there. Something just isn't right.
*Hardin was pacing up and down the hallway slowly as he talked. He stopped both for a moment.*
Hardin: I was up in Canada once, and the Mounties were chasing us. I wasn't the one they were after, they wanted one of the group I was with. They chased us north and we ended up at the edge of Hudson Bay. It's like an ocean, so big you can't see across it. But the entire thing was frozen over, right up to the shore so we started crossing it. We had no choice. The Mounties were right on our tails. When we started out, there were five of us. Only two of us made it back to shore. Two fell through the ice and the other just got plain lost on the ice. What I'm tryin' to say is that I know what it's like up there and we'll need that crew up there to help us get across the ice to the Tower. Just us six won't be enough and I'll bet they think the same way about us. But once we get there, we become expendable. I know I'm suspicious by nature but I have to speak my opinion. I also know I'm not always right but when I feel this strong about something I can't just let it go. If you all think I need to loosen up on this that's fine, but I'm going to keep my eyes and ears open. *Then he smiled* I used to be a pretty good card player back in where ever it was before this place. Maybe we can bluff her and get her to tip her hand a bit. She's not about to give us any information. We're gonna have to trick it out of her. Now that we know she's good we won't be fooled again.
Annie: I was expecting more of an argument from her. Maybe my empahasis on treasure and the great secret may have enticed her a bit. Who knows, but I do agree with you Mr. Hardin. She and her remaining crew are pirates and as such we certainly can't trust any of them as far as we could throw them. Maybe this will prove incorrect, but we need to keep watch and do as we would elsewhere. While some of us are getting shut eye, the rest of us need to keep alert. As to the Polar Sea. First Man told us that it was too warm to freeze.
Ben: As you noted. There is no engine. I too had wondered about that, so I took a bit of time and came down here surreptitiously and discovered the source of their motive power. Solar energy is collected and transported by polished quartz that is encased in bamboo tubes that are at the bow and stern of the boat. This heats water that is drawn into tubes below the keel. The heated water is forced to the stern or bow and into a reservoir. In the reservoir the water is heated by the quartz enclosed in the tubes. I am guessing that there are smaller diameter tubes that come from these reservoirs, and that the heated water pushes out and can propel the boat either forward or back depending upon what solar tube is opened. I'll know if I'm correct when it becomes necessary for Nemo to use something other than wind power.
H.G.: I say old chap. That's using your noggin!
Annie: As to your card playing Mr. Hardin. I believe that plus the grail stunner that Ben discovered gives us an ace in the hole as they say.
Bonnie: Mr Nemo! Keep her steady until the wind returns.Trim that sail until I say otherwise.
*Bonnie was pacing angrily up and down the ship cursing the wind, or lack of it. She watched the shoreline waiting for the wind to move the high grass. Soon she spotted slight movement and signaled Nemo to turn the ship a few degrees. Just then the girl in the crow's nest yelled something and pointed aft. Bonnie looked back and smiled.*
Bonnie: Mr Nemo, bring her about and head towards the center of the river.*looking up and seeing where the girl was now pointing.* Let's get closer! Nemo, you know what to do! All hands on deck!
*The crew members who were below came running up onto the deck and looked over the side. A large Dragonfish had surfaced on the river and was heading north. Two men ran to the bow and uncovered what looked like a large fishing reel. The others all ran to other positions and started working. The girl yelled again, signaled directions with her hands and Nemo adjusted the direction the ship was moving.*
Crewman:Cap'n! We don't have any bait to use. We traded off the last of those ugly fish for that spare sail.
*Bonnie undid her skirt and tossed it to the crewman leaving even less to cover her more than ample figure.*
Bonnie: Here, use this. It should catch the light and attract that mother. Hurry, it'll soon pass us.
*The crew quickly took the skirt and attached it to a large star shaped hook made from bamboo and fish bones which was attached to the rope on the reel. While this was going on two other crewman uncovered what looked like a small catapult on the bow. The hook, skirt and some weights were loaded and the catapult pulled back.
Bonnie: Steady now. On my signal.
*Bonnie watched the Dragonfish then looked up to the crow's nest. The girl signaled and Bonnie yelled.*
Bonnie:NOW!
*The catapult sent the hook and skirt, now a lure, flying out and it landed 10 yards in front of the Dragonfish who promptly altered his course to see what it was. As it got closer it opened it's mouth and swallowed the hook. It then rose up and made a shallow dive picking up speed. On Bonnie's signal the crew locked the reel and the ship picked up speed as the fish pulled it along.
Bonnie: OK, drop the sail and let's go for a ride. She's a big one, let's see how far she'll take us.
*The Dragonfish took off heading north and staying in the middle of the river at a steady pace. The crew prepared the sail to be raised again and settled down for the ride. Bonnie stood next to Nemo, smiled and said something to him which caused him to smile too.
Ben: Very enjoyable Captain Bonnie. Very much like the Nantucket Sleighrides that were so prevalent off the coasts of New England on Earth.Are you the first to have use this technique to harness a Dragonfish for a motive alternative?
Bonnie: The first? I'm not sure of that Mr. Franklin, but I know of no others that do. One of my old crewman, who has since departed the ship, was a, I can't think of the name, but he studied the fish of the oceans. When he came here he did the same and discovered that the Dragonfish, once they surfaced, would run near the top for as far as 20 miles.He told us stories of some Islanders who would harness dolphins and small whales and go for rides until they went deep. So, we did the same. It turns out the Dragonfish are a remarkable breed in that they always do the same thing. Before they go back down they signal their intentions and then we either haul them in or let them go. Most of the time we use that harness over there which was designed to hold them tight and to keep their gills closed so they can't breathe under water. They put up one hell of a fight before they go belly up on us. But a small Dragonfish will feed this crew for weeks. And it tastes a hell of alot better than what the grails provide us. Besides, it adds a little excitement to our day.
*The girl up in the crow's nest yelled and signaled with her arms. Nemo answered and adjusted the ship's direction. Bonnie watched them then moved to the rail and looked out over the river. Stepping back to Ben she smiled, almost sweetly, and resumed their conversation. Her Irish accent was thick but tempered slightly from the time spent on the River.*
Bonnie: As I was saying Mr. Franklin, pulling in a Dragonfish is a lot of work but well worth it. We use the entire fish; meat, bones and skin. The skin can be made as tough as armor or as soft as velvet, depending on how its treated and what part of the fish it comes from. The bones are strong, that railing is made from Dragonfish ribs as well as some of our weapons. But she's a big mother and we'll probably let her go. We know our limits.
*Bonnie looked ahead as if searching the shore and then looked back at Nemo. He returned her look and it was as if they had an entire conversation in the split second it took to make eye contact. She then looked up to the crow's nest and gave directions using hand signals. She then excused herself and went below. She returned 10 minutes later and again went over to Ben. She had changed her clothes or perhaps simply added some. She now wore a halter top and short skirt made from grail towels with boots made of Dragonfish hide that reached her mid thighs. The skirt was short enough to leave plenty of skin showing between the bottom hem and the top of the boots.*
Bonnie: *to Ben* Here, try this *handing him one of the pieces of dried meat she held.* It's dried Dragonfish, prepared by our cook. It's marinated in its own liver oils. Quite tangy. And this one is smoked using bamboo, Dragonfish fins, and sea weed, or River weed, whichever you prefer to call it. I find it difficult to break old habits. The cook throws something else in which he refuses to divulge but it makes the meat taste a lot like American buffalo. This piece is simply boiled in water and it tastes the most like fish. But this last one is my own personal favorite. It's prepared in a process below that is like no other and quite complicated I'm told. As I understand it, the meat is packed into tubes made from the intestines and then placed in what our cook calls his "River Microwave". It's named after some 20th Century invention. River water is sucked in through bamboo tubes and then run over quartz-like crystals. The water is actually heated up just by moving over the rocks. It has something to do with the chemical make up of the crystals. It then runs over smaller pipes made from baby dragonfish ribs filled with fish oils and some herbs found on shore. As the oil and herbs heat up it passes through the bone and onto the tubes containing the meat which cooks and marinates it at the same time. You may have seen some of the Microwave pipes below, it takes up quite a bit of room.
*The ship was traveling at a steady rate at around 8-10 knots and the Dragonfish showed no signs of slowing down. She swam in an almost straight line and whenever she veered at all Nemo adjusted the ship's course to follow directly behind the fish. Bonnie leaned back against the railing and lifted her face up to the sun. Smiling she said softly, almost to herself,*
Bonnie: Parfois, la vie peut être bonne.
Ben: Very, very interesting. And it seems that your River Microwave can be used in other ways as well. By the way. May I ask that you call me Ben and if I may, I shall call you Bonnie? With this 25 year old body, Mr. Franklin makes me feel like that old man I understand people on Earth remembered me as.
Bonnie: You may ask anything you want, Mr. Franklin, but just because you ask for it doesn't guarantee your wish will be granted. On my ship I am the captain and therefore I am the only one who gets all of her wishes granted. You will refer to me as Captain and I shall refer to you as Mister just as I refer to all the other men on board. And, as appropriate, I refer to all of the women as Miss. If you find this too difficult to accept let me know. I'll be happy to let you off at the nearest grailstone.
*Bonnie looked to the crow's nest and nodded as Miss Linska signaled that all was well and that the Dragon fish was still travelling as expected.*
Bonnie: You see, Mr. Franklin, a ship needs a captain and a crew that will obey every rule she sets down without question. Anyone who cannot or will not obey every rule I set down is permanently assigned to shore duty. Incidentally, the Queen's Gambit does NOT carry any passengers. *She paused* As to the Microwave, I do not understand what you are referring to. Perhaps with modifications it can have a variety of other uses just as my skirt was used as a fishing lure but then again, the same can be said for any other part of the ship. Is there something in particular you have in mind?
*Just then there was a yell from above.*
Bonnie: Mr. Nemo!
Nemo: Ready Captain!
*The crew didn't need to be instructed. They quickly ran to their posts and started working.*
Bonnie: Mr. Franklin! Quickly, over by the mast and grab that line with Mr. Collins. On my signal raise the sail with all you're worth! Mr. Hardin, to the port railing! Just follow Mr. Kan. Mr. Wells! You and Mr. Musashi to the starboard rail. But wait for the person on that side to start. Miss Oakley, you and Mr. de Montfort move back by the helm with Mr Nemo. Be prepared to help him if he needs it. Follow any orders he gives to the letter. We've no room for mistakes.
*Bonnie moved up to her position on the bow. The Dragonfish started to weave back and forth in front of the ship as the crew started to slowly pull in the line. On each side of the ship two of the crew took up what appeared to be bamboo harpoons and the others picked up the lines, getting them ready to toss over the side. The crewman near the mast quickly untied the ropes holding the sail and grabbed the lines.*
Collins: *to Ben* Get ready. If this sail doesn't go up in time that Drag'nfish just might turn us right over.
Nemo: When she dives this ship will start to spin out of control. We need to keep this wheel straight for the most part and then spin' er when the time comes.
*The Dragonfish dove slightly then jumped up out of the water. When she hit the water she turned back under the ship.*
Ben: As you wish Captain. As I once said, A quarrelsome man has no good neighbor, but please remember, the doors of wisdom are never shut.
*Ben moved toward the mast where Mr. Collins waited*
*Hardin watched as Ben talked with Bonnie. The Captain was undoubtedly someone who's looks would catch a man's eye and they caught Hardin's. Where hewas from women didn't walk around half naked but aside from that, as if that wasn't enough, she was actually very pretty, maybe even beautiful. And he was always a sucker for a pretty girl and an Irish accent. Ben looked interested but it wasn't her that had his interest. A blind man could see that and she never smiled at Ben. She was a cool one, almost cold but Hardin had an idea, one that just might warm her up some. He just needed some patience, a virtue that he had always been lacking in. But here he had all the time in the world, maybe even more. He looked toward the helm at Nemo who seemed only interested in steering the ship but Hardin was sure there was more to the relationship between Nemo and Bonnie. He watched Nemo's eyes go from Dragonfish to the woman in the crow's nest to Bonnie and back again. He might get in the way but Hardin wasn't worried, he had dealt with difficult men before. And bigger ones.The dragonfish kept pulling the boat and all seemed to be going well. Hardon crossed from one side of the boat to the other where Mr. Kan was, as it glided smoothly up the River. He looked to the shore and saw a large group of canoes quickly leave the shore. He seemed to be the only one who saw them as everyones attention was on the Dragonfish. They were slightly ahead of the boat and the boat was moving too fast for the canoes to catch up, but those on the canoes didn't seem to notice. The men inside still paddled as if they were going to intercept the boat. Hardin watched them as they fell behind and yet they still paddled hard. He looked forward and saw another group way up ahead leaving the shore. That was it, they were going to catch the big boat in the middle and attack from two sides. He tried to get Nemo's attention but to no avail. He ran back to the helm and pointed to the canoes as he yelled. Nemo glanced forward then back and nodded.*
Hardin: We're heading right into a trap!
*Just then, the Dragonfish dove under the boat and all hell broke loose.*
*The Dragonfish dove and dove deep. The ship was moving forward and slid right over where the Dragonfish dove so that the ship was now directly over it. Before the ship was completely over the last spot the fish was seen Captain Bonnie signaled to Hardin and Kan on the bow and they started chopping at the rope with quartz axes.*
Collins:*to Ben* See that! The Cap'n decided not to take her in. She must be larger than we thought. Or maybe its 'cause of them canoes.
*The canoes off the stern continued to move quickly towards the ship without gaining ground. The canoes off the bow now spread across the river forming a blockade. The Dragonfish dove deeper and the ship suddenly spun around with the bow now facing south. The sudden spinning of the ship threw the crew across the deck. Kan on the bow fell into the water and the ship slid over him. His body eventually surfaced over 100 feet away, face down and motionless. Hardin managed to hold on but dropped his axe and it slid down the deck towards the stern. Bonnie yelled some orders and Nemo reacted before she finished. He spun the wheel to straighten the ship then spun it the other way as it turned too far. As he did, Annie and Simon jumped on the giant fishing reel and popped the lock off. Once they did, the ship stopped moving and the fishing reel spun quickly as the line ran out. Bonnie raised her arm and the young dark woman in the crew raced over to get the axe. Running up the deck she quickly handed it to Musashi. Bonnie signaled and Annie and Simon threw the lock on the reel. The line suddenly became tight and the bow of the ship dipped down almost under the water.*
Bonnie: NOW!! CUT IT NOW!!!
*At that command Musashi hacked away at the rope cutting it with two chops. The bow of the ship flew high up into the air, actually leaving the water. It landed back down with a large splash and Bonnie turned to Collins and Ben.*
Bonnie: Get that sail up NOW!!!
*Ben and Collins pulled on the rope with all their might and were quickly joined by two more men. The sail went up and the as the wind caught it the ship started moving. Nemo spun the wheel again and yelled for Annie and Simon to help hold the wheel. The ship slowly turned around.
Bonnie: Mr Collins! We're coming about! Watch that sail!!
Collins: You! *to Ben* Grab that beam, that one there, and pull it to the port side. That's it. All the way over!
*The sail moved across the deck as the ship slowly turned around. About three quarters of the way around, Nemo turned the wheel back and the ship slid out towards the middle of the river in what could best be described as a NW direction.The ship appeared to be trying to go around the end of the blockade. The canoes to the south, now to the stern of the ship, had gained considerable ground but the ship was now putting distance between them. The canoes to the north started to spread out towards the middle of the river. Bonnie signaled again and Collins pulled the sail in a bit, slowing the ship down. As the canoes closed in on the end of the blockade line, Hardin, Simon, Musashi, and Annie went to each side of the ship, picked up harpoons and made ready to throw them. When the ship was 30 feet from the blockade Bonnie turned and yelled to Nemo who spun the wheel hard to the right. The ship made a sharp turn to starboard and at the same time Collins and Ben pushed the sail out to fully catch the wind. The ship picked up speed and headed for a spot where the blockade line was thinnest.This sudden change caused panic in the men in the canoes and before they could react the Queen's Gambit was through the line and heading north. The crewman on the ship's sides threw their harpoons at the canoes.They threw the with such force that they sank three canoes.The ship picked up speed and soon all the canoes were quickly fading into the background. Bonnie turned around to face the ship. She looked around at the crew and smiled broadly. The crew saw this and cheered loudly. *
Bonnie: We did well today but paid a price. We lost a lot of line to the Dragonfish, line that is difficult to replace. We lost 4 harpoons which are easy enough to replace but will take time. And we lost another crewman. But, all things considered, we could have lost more. She walked back to the helm.*
Bonnie: I'll take the helm Mr. Nemo. I want you to oversee the crew as they check out the ship. Make sure we haven't lost anything else and check for any damage from that rocking. That Dragonfish could've snapped this ship in half.
*Bonnie looked at the newest members of the crew, those of the Quest.*
Bonnie: You too, you all did well. A bit more practice and you'll be OK.
*The she smiled to herself spoke softly, more to herself than the others*
Bonnie: *almost whispering* Cabbages to cauliflower.
*She shook her head and laughed.*
Annie: *Going over to Bonnie.* My compliments Captain Bonnie, and thank you for the kind comments. A common goal appears to bring out the best in people. I'm sorry about Mister Kan. Hopefully he'll find the new place where he is resurrected to his liking. Now that we are eleven what are your plans?
*Bonnie looked out over the river as Annie spoke, never looking at her. When Annie finished Bonnie nodded slightly. Then she spoke rather somberly, her accent seeming heavier.*
Bonnie: Eleven. A nice odd number. At one time my crew numbered 15, not counting myself. One by one they were lost and now.. Mr Kan was the only one who deserved his fate. He was the one who allowed you to board my ship in the first place. He was also responsible for a number of other errors including letting us set anchor before we were ready, I believe he had other plans for himself that did not include us.
*She turned to look Annie square in the eyes.*
Bonnie: Eleven may not be enough. It will take 12 worthy seamen just to sail her and more to fight off what lays ahead. I know over 1000 miles of this river north of here, and Nemo knows more. A week from now we'll be going through a part of the river that's controlled by someone who hates me more than the devil himself. She has a large number of boats, none as big as the Queen's Gambit, but we may not be a match for the sheer numbers she can throw at us. And she'll do anything to take this ship away from me. Or sink it.*after a slight pause* If we're to get to the Tower it will take more will power,ingenuity and determination than most people have. I can speak for my crew, or what's left of it, and they all have it.
*She looked around and pointed at each as she spoke.*
Bonnie: Mr Collins, Jack Collins, is a former early 20th century prize fighter who let a good bottle of run take over his life. That and wealthy men who bet against him and didn't like losing. He would've been World Champion except that he took their money and lost his fights at the exact moment they told him too. He wants to look at himself in the mirror again and not be ashamed. He has risked his life many times on my account. Mr King. He's an African warrior from many years back, sometime before the white man even thought to go there. Proud, noble and fearless. He's not of royal blood but his word is better than those who are. He died in battle and now feels that the Tower hold the path to his heaven. This River is certainly not what he expected. Miss Heidi Linska is the grand- daughter of a Viking King. She died as an infant and needs to get in Valhalla to meet him. She too thinks the Tower has the answer. Mr Nemo has a somewhat mysterious past, but he's been there and has a reason to go back. He won't talk about what the reason is but it seems to be of great importance. And you and your crew? Do they have what it takes?
*Annie looked directly into Captain Bonnie's eyes.*
Annie: I believe that they are, but only time will tell.
*The sky was darkening and the boat turned to shore where there was known to be a peaceful group of people who had proven to be friendly. As they docked people came to welcome them. It was decided that Musashi and Mr. King would stay on board while the remainder of the crew went ashore. As the nine members moved down the gangplank and followed their hosts a dark shadow fell from the sky onto the grassy plain. From what appeared to be a glider stepped a short, muscular man. H.G. stopped, looked, and then with a look of great surprise he said.* H.G.: By George! Is that you Harry?
Harry: H.G. As I live and breathe! How in heavens name did you get here?
*The other members from the Queens Gambit gathered around and listened to the two.* H.G.: My friends. You are in the presence of the greatest prestidigitator, master of escapism and airborne flight that I was so very proud to call my friend on old Earth. May I introduce Harry Houdini!
*As they talked, two other men approached.*
Harry: It is like old home week. You remember Harry Hawker from Austrailia and Jack London don't you?
H.G.: By heavens name! To find you all here in one place on the River is a spot of luck! Harry: We came here from down River to help celebrate the Festival of Lights, a combination of the old Winter holidays of Christian, Jewish, and other old Earth faiths. I hope that you and your friends will stay to help us celebrate and see the show and we can talk of old and new times while getting to know your friends.
*That night the members of the Queen's Gambit stood on the grassy plains with members of the community as lights came winding down, in, and around the trees from both sides of the wooded hills like two sinuous snakes.*
Annie: How beautiful!
Harry: A bit of luck. A fisherman discovered that theTurtlefish had a substance within its body that could be used like wax, and would burn like a candle.
Hawk: And it can be used like a glue when mixed withIrontree leaf resin, which makes it impervious to heat and most wonderful to use on our one person gliders.
Ben: Like the one that Harry landed on the plain as we arrived? I'm most interested in how your heavier then air machines are made, and how they fly.
*Jack London was speaking with Nemo and Captain Bonnie regarding the large bamboo boat that lay anchored by the river bank, as he had much experience using crafts upon the sea.*
Nemo: That's not quite what I said. We have two catapults, one fore and one aft. The fore catapult is modeled after the catapults of old where they tossed huge rocks at castle walls. The aft catapult is like a giant crossbow. They're both basically war machines and the aft catapult would have to be modified to launch your gliders but that's not my decision. And it may not be large enough.
Bonnie: We could always use the additions to the crew but modifying the catapult poses a few problems. First, we would lose a valuable weapon, one that we've used before and I don't like the idea of sailing without it. Secondly, we would need to modify the catapult before we set sail. Then one glider could be stored on the catapult and the other, if disassembled, could be stored on the aft deck. There's no room for them any other way. That means a layover here for however long it takes to make those adjustments. Can we afford that? And what good would it do to launch a glider off the ship anyway? If I understand it correctly, the glider is just that, a device that glides on the wind with no power of its own. Therefore, it cannot climb in altitude, it can only float downward. Based on that, I have to decline your request to modify my catapult. We can disassemble one of the gliders and store it on the aft deck or we can leave it here. That's up to you. But either way, the second glider has to remain on shore. I don't see any room for it aboard the Queen's Gambit. But I am willing to listen if you have a better idea.
Hardin: It seems to me that if we can take one apart, we should be do the same for the other. I looked at these gliders and they don't look that big. We should be able to store both on the deck together. But it would make more sense to modify the catapults here in place that we're welcome and fairly safe. There's also plenty of manpower to gather the supplies needed while we gather supplies for the next leg of the journey north.
*Hardin stopped talking for a moment as he looked aft at the catapult. Then he had an idea.*
Hardin: I'm no engineer but I'm thinking it shouldn't be too much trouble to just remove that catapult and secure it to the deck right here in the middle of the ship and then build a new one big enough to launch these gliders. I'm sure one of you guys could come up with a way to brace a larger one to the hull in such a way that we'd be able to remove it and put the old one back on quickly if its needed. We'd have to make some adjustments because of the old catapult being in the way here but if we can get used to living on this River then a catapult in the middle of the deck should be nothing.
*Hardin looked at everyone to see their reactions but mostly he wanted to see what Captain Bonny thought and willing was she to really listen to another idea. It may be her ship but if we all agreed to this she *had* to agree whether she wanted to or not.*
Hawk: I agree with Mr. Hardin. The gliders were constructed so that they could easily be put together and taken apart, and light enough so that one person could transport each without difficulties. As Mr. Hardin suggests, I'm sure that I could adapt the present catapalt to be used as a weapon and a launch platform for the gliders as well as allowing it to be set up toward the center of the boat. Storage of the gliders when they are broken down should present no difficulty, and Mr. Franklin and I are investigating something very interesting. If it works out, your comment regarding the gliders not being able to gain altitude will be moot Captain Bonny.
*Bonnie looked at Nemo who seemed to indicate that he agreed with the idea although it was a very subtle indication.*
Bonnie: I like the idea. Mr. Hawker, you and Mr. Franklin will look over the catapult and decide what needs to be done to it. It will be up to you to decide what the best course of action will be but keep in mind, I will not sail without a working war machine for the stern. Is that clear? Mr King, you will be in charge of getting whatever supplies are needed to rebuild the catapult. Mr. Wells and Monsieur de Montfort, you go along with Mr. King and follow his orders. Mr. Hawker, before any work is started I need to know how long it will take. Miss Linska, take Mr. Musashi and Mr. Houdini below and check out the stores then go ashore and find a way to resupply our water, food stores and other supplies. We will need to replace that length of rope we lost. Mr. Collins, you and Mr. London take the first watch. No one is to get close, and absolutely no one is to come aboard but the crew. Miss Oakley, if you and Mr. Hardin will join Mr. Nemo and myself in my cabin.
*The orders were given and everyone moved on to their assigned tasks. Miss Linska went below with Musashi and Harry to check the food.*
Linska: We keep a supply of food and water so we don't have to depend on the grailstones. Too many of them are in very hostile areas. Whenever the lightning stikes we like to call it "feeding the cattle". We also keep fresh water because we found areas of the river where the water is undrinkable. The water is in those clay jugs over there, the ones with the wicker around them. That helps keep the clay from breaking. Damn! These two must have been broken when we came up out of the water. We came down pretty hard. Those baskets contain the food. We'll count the number in the crew and then calculate what we can put in this storage area. We'll also need to check our ammunition.
*Hawk and Ben went aft to look over the catapult as Mr. King, HG and Simon followed.*
King: I spent alot of time ashore and have a pretty good idea of what's available to us in terms of building supplies. We shouldn't have any trouble finding what we need. You just need to make sure the ship stays balanced both port to starboard as well as fore and aft. If the stern gets too heavy the bow lifts out of the water and that's not good.
*Collins and Jack took their positions near the gangplank.*
Collins: Like the Cap'n said, no one gets too near and no one comes aboard. We always get lots of gawkers who think they have some right to come aboard.Usually we growl and they leave but every so often one decides to test us. They end up in the river and usually go home. Oh, when they return with the supplies, don't help them. Our job to keep a lookout for trouble. We can't do that if we're carrying supplies. Got it?
*Once inside the cabin Bonnie motioned for them all to sit at the table as she went to a large chest and took out a large pitcher. She placed it in the middle of the table and sat down. The pitcher was made of what looked like glazed clay or pottery and could hold about one liquid gallon. On the outside was painted a picture. It was an outdoor winter scene, with rocks snow and ice. In the center of a large mist-covered polar sea was a tower.*
*Hardin picked up the pitcher and turned it slowly in his hands. He looked at the scene on it very carefully and then studied the rest of the pitcher.*
Hardin: Where did this come from? From the way you've described it I assume that's The Tower. *looking at Annie.* This thing looks pretty old, I don't know, a few hundred years maybe? *he gently placed in front of Annie* My father-in-law was a self-proclaimed expert on pottery and things like this. He didn't stop lecturing me about it when I said I wanted to buy my wife something nice for the house. I guess I should've listened more to that SOB and I might've if he wasn't so arrogant. He knew everything about everything and was more than willing to tell that to everyone too. Wait a minute.....
*He picked up the pitcher again before Annie could and looked it over once more.*
Hardin: Like I said, I'm not the expert on this but it doesn't look like the English set I ended up buying. The old man said I wasted my money on a piece of crap. *smiling* I ended up telling him to go to Hell. Anyway, it doesn't look English and I'd say it's not fancy enough to be French. It certainly doesn't look Chinese and it has some sort of glaze so its probably not Afican. That leaves Greek, Roman or even Mexican. There's some lettering on the bottom that I don't recognize which means its not English, French, Latin or Spanish. That leaves Greek by process of elimination. Again, I'm no expert so I could be way off on this.
*Looking at Captain Bonnie, he handed the pitcher to Annie.*
Hardin: Do you know anything about this thing? Where it's from or who made it?
* A sound, a feeling, a smell. Those were the first thoughts that popped into mind. The sound was that of gentle waves crashing against his body, the feeling of cold, and a smell of pine? He slowly got up groaning with pain. Looking around he started to take stock of the situation. Indeed he was right. He was wet and cold and on a beach. The smell of pine was very strong in the area. Possible something to with the forest nearby he thought. Getting up and feeling like so much washed up rubbish, he strolled over to a pile of towels and a strange-looking canister. He stood at roughly a height of 5'9", and liked to think that he had a muscular build, a long waist length, pure white hair, weighed in at 180 lbs., and was reasonably fit. He found that he had no problems moving, no achy joints, nor pains, not even any scares! Hmm he thought, very strange. On closer inspection, he was able to get the cylinder open. Shaking it around a bit, he dislodged a small bundle. Unwrapping it he found that there were clothes which he put on and found that they fit quite well and were quite comfortable. Scouting around for a sense of direction, he came upon the conclusion that he had to head north, or upstream so, without knowing where he was going or what he would be doing, he decided that he would boldly going where no man had gone before!*
Bonnie: I don't have the answers to those questions, Mr. Hardin. We know very little about it but perhaps Mr. Nemo would care to explain.
Nemo: I was part of an expedition that was trying to reach the Pole. Our leader has heard rumors and was determined to find out the truth. We started with more than 25 men and it seems we travelled for months, maybe years. Between the ice and snow we lost track of time but we were way beyond the last grailstone and on foot. I estimate perhaps 3, maybe 4 months based on our food supply when we climbed very high and steep cliffs. By the time we reached the top we were down to less than 10 men and completely out of food. At the top the land was flat and frozen but we had no choice but to continue on. When we reached the frozen lake we could see the tower in the distance. That's the last thing I remember. When I woke up I was in a warmer part of the river. Maybe it was just a dream, maybe it was real. My choice then was stay put, head south or head north so I chose north again. I asked as I travelled but no one heard or knew anything about the Tower. Then one day I found an earthenware urn, one very much like that, with the same picture. The person who made it had died more than a year before but no one knew how. Before I left that village it was attacked by a neighboring tribe and everything was destroyed, including the urn. I escaped the carnage and kept moving north eventually meeting up with Captain Bonney. Some months back we found this pitcher in the burnt out ruins of a small village some distance north of here.
*Nemo paused to let his story sink in.*
Bonnie: When he explained the picture, I realized that I had heard the before, a long time ago, as a little girl. I decided then that I must reach the North Pole. Somehow it's a link between this world and the last one.
*She paused.*
We've heard rumors that the way north is guarded by everything from demons who ride on the wind to large armies of huge two legged creatures who ride on the backs of giant hairy tigers and elephants. We've also heard, and Mr. Nemo has in fact seen this. There are villages along the river that are determined to stop anyone from reaching the Pole, as well as some individuals. For this reason we were skeptical of telling you too much but we feel that now's the time. All we know is that the Tower is at the North Pole and the River flows either from there or near it. The grailstones stop long before the Pole, and there's nothing but snow and ice from then on. No food, no shelter, no fires. We know these to be facts.
*Bonnie paused to take a drink.*
Bonnie: Our plan has been to take the Queen's Gambit as far north on the River as possible, and then go on foot the rest of the way. It's difficult on this world to know for sure, but we believe that we still have many months, maybe even years left to travel. In that time we'll prepare for the cold as well as gather enough food stores to make the trip from the last grailstone to the Tower and back. With luck, we'll also pick up new crew members, such as yourself, who can help us get to the Tower. But I have to stress this one fact; I am NOT in favor of telling all new crew members of our plans or even our destination. That means, for the time being, no one but those in this room now are to know of what we discuss in here without prior permission from me. Any comments, questions?
Annie: Thank you for being a straight-shooter with us Mr. Nemo and you Captain Bonney. I do recognize the markings on this urn. This was on the forehead of a mysterious stranger that came to me while we were being held "to keep us safe" from you by the under-River Aquatainians. He or she promised us aid in reaching the Tower.
*Annie gave the pitcher back to Captain Bonney*
Annie: As to your request that we discuss this with no one outside this room. It is a bit late for that, as all our original members and the three new members. All have been told the aim of the Quest, and since it would be dangerous, they were given the opportunity not to go with us. I feel that each and every person who we ask to join us, know it is possible that they may "die" or even worse, become a slave or worse.
*Annie paused, looked at Hardin, and said,*
Annie: Please. If you would allow me a moment of private conversation with Mr. Hardin?
*She and Hardin moved out of earshot of the two others.* Annie: I feel that since we now know their goal, we might have Ben tell them about his discovery if you know what I mean?
*Running helped him think. To clear his mind. Stopping for a second to catch his breath he thought that the strangest part of it was his physical age. His body appeared to be in perfect condition, and as he was at the age of 25 as well. Not that he was going to argue. Being at the height of his physical prowess certanly helped. Having no shoes was an entirly different matter. He was going to have to find more appropriate clothes, weapons and some food. On the way up stream he thought he had seen some signs of human life. For the moment staying out of sight and out of mind, seemed like the safest bet. When he figured out what the situation was, and if they were hostile or not, he was not going to risk it. Scouting out a village on the way, he spotted a human male. He seem to be about the same build height and most importanatly he had shoes! Letting the male walk a few feet more, he lunged from the bushes, knocking the man out. Quickly stripping the man and changing into the new clothes, he took his weapons and a few other items. Then he decided on keeping the old clothes (just in case). Then he turned north, smiled, and started running again. This time heading closer to the stream.
Hardin: I disagree. I don't entirely trust our little Irish sea captain here, after all she's IS a pirate, remember? And you, when those fish people were alledgedly keeping us safe, who was it they were keeping us safe from? Most of us didn't trust those fish people but you were the one who insisted that we could. So, do we trust the fish people or Little Miss Half Naked over there? Besides, we may need to use that little secret should they turn on us but we can always tell them later.
*Hardin paused for a moment and looked over at Bonnie and Nemo.*
Hardin: Look, I've been screwed over more times than I can count by people I thought I could trust so I'm not ready to jump in and start trusting anyone, let alone strangers. But you're the Boss, remember? So its up to you.
Annie: You may be correct, and I think that I know you enough now to trust those premonitions that you seem to have. You can take center stage at this point.
*They walked back to Bonnie and Nemo and sat down.*
Hardin: I agree about not telling anyone but like she said, its a bit late. I'm not saying I trust every member your crew, or every member of our own group for that matter, but I think everyone of us on board now already knows where we're headed. Perhaps the best thing is to say that there is to be no discussion of our plans with anyone else but the current crew, and we will not be taking on any new crewmen. This boat's already full as is.
Bonnie: Unfortunately there is an individual now aboard who's trustworthiness is in question. This is someone who doesn't remember me but who I certainly remember from another part of this river. This is someone who has knowledge that we need to reach the Tower but who may be here to stop us. That is the reason for my demand for secrecy. Don't ask who it is. I know who it is and will be watching. And I will determine guilt or innocence as well as punishment.*She paused.* All the crew knows, is that we are trying to reach the Pole to find the Tower. Our strategy and the details of our plans, must remain with us alone until the time comes when it can no longer be kept secret. As far as someone dying or becoming a slave, that's everyday life on this River. It has nothing to do with the search for the Tower. According to Mr. Nemo, the last few grailstones are different in appearance than those along the rest of the River. When and if we get to those, everyone aboard will again be given the choice of going ashore or continuing on. I trust Mr. Nemo with more than just my life and I expect that he has the same trust in me. I also have my reasons for trusting you two as does Mr. Nemo. Now, do I have your word that you will abide by my expectation of secrecy?
Annie: As you trust Nemo with your life, I in turn trust Miyumoto Musashi with mine. So. I can not give you my word where he is concerned. I also wonder why you say that you trust Mr.Hardin and myself, but you will not share with us, as I'm sure you've done with Mr. Nemo, the name of the individual now aboard whom you suspect of possibly attempting to stop us from reaching the Pole and the Dark Tower.
Bonnie: 'Tis a fair question but you'll not receive an answer. As Captain I've made this decision and it's for your own good. Your own safety to be more exact. I have my reasons for sharing this knowledge with the two of you at this time and you will just have to accept the fact that you will know who it is when I feel the time is right. Now, do I have your word to keep this information just between us or not?
*Just then there was a loud commotion from outside. There was lots of yelling and then what sounded like angry words. Bonnie and Nemo quickly went up on deck and saw Mr Collins standing at the bottom of the gangplank in a heated conversation with another man. Jack London was at the top of the gangplank on the deck of the ship watching. Bonnie stepped to the side and called out as Nemo walked past and down the gangplank.*
Bonnie:Mr Collins! What is going on?
Collins: Sorry Cap'n but you said absolutely no one was to come near the ship.
*Collins stepped aside and then Bonnie saw the man who was arguing.*
Bonnie: Mr Kan. We had not expected to see you again this soon.
Kan: Cap'n! This fool won't let me aboard. What's going on?
*When the Captain recognized Kan, Collins eased up a little and Kan pushed past him and headed for the gangplank only to find Nemo in his way.*
Kan: Cap'n! Why's Mr Nemo blocking me? I'm still part of the crew, right? I mean, I've only been gone a few days.
Bonnie: True, Mr. Kan, very true. Unfortunately a lot has happened in those few days and no, you're no longer a part of this crew. I'm sorry, but if you insist on trying to board the Queen's Gambit these gentlemen will be sure to prevent you.
*Kan's face took on the look of pure shock. He looked to Nemo then Collins, then back to Bonnie.*
Kan: Surely you're not serious Cap'n?
*Seeing that there was no doubt that she was indeed serious Kan backed away. He slowly walked away from the River, looking back every so often hoping that someone would call to him.*
* During this scene, Annie spoke to Hardin in a low voice.*
Annie: It would appear to me that Mr. Kan's arrival here rather than a different part of the River is very unusual. First Man told us that there were agents of those in the Dark Tower that were among us, whose origins were not of the Earth from which we came. I am of the opinion that I will not even think of giving my word of silence unless Miyumoto is apprised of all that we have learned. I am also wary of a trust that is not a trust. How do you feel?
Hardin:I don't trust anyone. It's just my nature. Back in the old days, whereever that was, trusting the wrong people meant a bullet in the back. Here it's different. To be honest, I never did trust all of the group that came with us but I have more faith in you than most. Not that I trust you completely, just a little more than most of the others. I don't like this place and if there's a way out of here then count me in to help find it.
*Hardin watched the scene unfold between Bonnie and Kan then turned to Annie.*
Hardin: She knows more than she's saying and I don't like not knowing what it is. But I think we have to give her story some attention. If she's right, we could be in big trouble if we ignore it. If she's attempting to fool us then we could be in big trouble with that too. Either way we have to keep our ears and eyes open.
*He paused for a moment and looked out over the River as he gathered his thoughts.*
Hardin: Keep in mind that every member of our group met for the first time here on the River. You have no idea if they are who they say they are, or if they are, maybe they're in the employ of those who put us here. That includes Musashi. I know how you feel about him and some of the others, but with what we have at stake, I'm just saying we each need to be careful.
*Then he smiled.*
Hardin: I didn't give my word, did you? Perhaps our little group should have private get together later. Doesn't Musashi need some special herbs or something?
*He looked at Annie to see if she understood and agreed.*
Annie: I'm happy to hear that you trust me, even if it's just a little more than most of the others.
*A wee bit of a smile appeared on her face*
I too feel that our Captain Bonnie is hiding a good deal from us. For example, a while back she said.
A week from now we'll be going through a part of the river that's controlled by someone who hates me more than the devil himself. She has a large number of boats, none as big as the Queen's Gambit, but we may not be a match for the sheer numbers she can throw at us. And she'll do anything to take this ship away from me. Or sink it.
This was the only time I saw her feelings came through the bravado and confidence she displays. She also spoke about a Mr. Sax who had built a "sun engine" to power this boat. Mr. Sax is gone but Nemo knows how to run it. She mentioned that Microwave, when Ben spoke to here about it, but Ben told me that she was hiding something. No. I too need to think a bit more before giving my word. And Yes. Musashi did mention to me that he wanted to speak with a fellow countryman from the Japan of his time, that he has discovered here.
* After Mister Kan had left, Annie informed Bonnie that she, Hardin, and the others were going with Musashi to meet with a countryman he had found that had lived in Japan during the same time period on Earth as he, and then they would take a bit of what might just be the last rest and relaxation that they might have before going north up the River. She stated that they would meet back at the boat before dark. At that time, they would speak further about the matter they had spoken about. Then she, Hardin and Musashi went to get the others of their group.*
*It seemed so strange to be running. That he did not know who he was running from or where he was running to annoyed him, since there was no clear target to reach or an enemey to kill, so he did what his head said and ran for the hills quite literally it seems. A little bit up River he came to a great firery cone. He got some and then found a spot by the River, made a fire, and settled down for the night. Feeling the heat warm him up, he soon became dozy. In the midst of his sleep the hunter could have sworn that he had seen a very large boat.*
*Annie and the others had come back from having visited Musashi's friend, and after the changes and additions had been made on the boat, the Queen's Gambit resumed its voyage up the River.* *Sun Tzu had awoken from his sleep, and as he looked toward the River, he saw the boat that had been in his dream. Gathering up his things and placing them in their waterproof covering, he quickly went to the edge of the River, dove in, and when he reached the boat, he stealthily made his way over the gunwales and down below decks where he hid.*
*When dawn came Bonnie was already on deck with the night watch. She drank a hot beverage from a cup and looked out over the river. Talking half to herself and half to Jack Collins at the helm.*
Bonnie: We'll need to pull ashore to recharge our grails sometime today but I don't like this part of the river. When the crew is awake we'll have to get an inventory of the food and provisions that the grails provide. Maybe we can go a few more days without going ashore.
*As she spoke, her thoughts were much further away than the shore. They went to the open seas of her past to the American West to some time along the River then to the North Pole and the Tower. After long minutes of silence she walked along the rail from aft to bow then down along the other side, deep in thought. The River was silent as the wind moved them slowly along. Then a thought came to her.*
Bonnie: Mr. Collins *she said somewhat softly.* Go below and wake Mr. Hardin. Be careful not to wake the others and have Mr. Hardin come up on deck.
*She took the wheel and smiled to herself as Mr. Collins when silently below.*
*Hiding in the darkness Sun Tzu heard voices. He listened for a while and realised that what he heard didn't appear to be a danger to him. Getting out some food he had stolen from a nearby town he unwrapped and began to eat. Just as he finished someone came from around the corner. Sun Tzu jumped up, ran up the steps to the deck and toward the edge of the boat.*
*Hardin woke up as the former prize fighter shook him gently and put his large hand over his mouth.*
Collins:Cap' Bonney wants you up on deck, alone. *he whispered.*
*Hardin rose and climbed the ladder up to the deck. Still half asleep he looked around in the dim light just before dawn. Seeing Bonney he walked over to her. He shook the sleep from his head and then his body.*
Hardin:What can I do for you on this almost beautiful morning, my dear captain?
*That's when they saw someone strange run up on deck.*
Hardin:What the...?? Who the hell is that?
*Sun Tzu was about to dive off the side of the boat when two well-muscled arms reached out and entwined themselves around his neck. Reaching far back, grabbing Mr. Jack Collins around the neck, and making a quick movement with his hip, the hunter threw the ex-boxer to the deck. Quick to recover Collins charged the stranger like a angered bull. Sun Tsu thought to himself.
If the enemy has the advantage on even ground, take the fight to uneven ground and make him fight you. If you can make the enemy come to you, you can have the advantage. The lesson he often taught floated back into his memory. It was time to put them into practice.
*The fighter growled at him and made his move. With a quick motion Sun Tzu was on top of the cabin, grinning widely at the fighter, enticing him with the pretence of an easy fight.*
Collins: Coward! *cried the fighter.* Come down here and fight like a man!"
Sun: I fight like man. It is you who fears to come up here and fight! *Inwardly Sun Tzu smiled. Surely it could not be this easy.They did not fight like warriors yet they had the courage of them. Were they friend or foe? His first thought was foe, but now he was not so sure. If this were his army they would have been severely scolded for making such a mistake. Or in the case of two concubines, they would have their heads chopped off. This however was neither the time nor the place for memories, as the fighter was starting his way up. One who knows when he can fight, and when he cannot fight, will be victorious. The fighter hesitated. He climbed up without grace. With one swift movement the predator swung. The sound of his foot making contact with the fighter's jaw made him cringe a bit. The fighter was obviously not the brightest person on this world. As he came up the side once again, he was hit in the face, swearing as he fell to the ground. Sun Tzu was getting bored of this. As much fun as it was to win at battle it was unfair to slaughter the enemy, especially if they were undeserving of it.
He heard someone call to the fighter. It was the voice of a warrior of Japanese descent. He could not be sure, but he looked a like a Samurai. He walked with the same skill and precision as Sun Tzu (he would have to careful of this one).
The fighter and the predator looked at each other for a minute. As they looked one at the other, the Samurai spoke *
Musashi: Please listen to me Collins! I recognize the man with whom you are fighting. He was the most famous general in the entire world. His name Sun Tzu, was known and respected by friend and foe alike in every country on Earth. If there was ever a military genius, Sun Tzu was he.
*Shocked, the predator looked at the Samurai as he jumped from the top of the cabin to the deck and looked from the Samurai to the fighter. Slowly Sun Tzu walked over to the fighter spreading his arms palms up (a sign of peace). He offered his hand to the fighter and spoke.*
Sun: Know yourself, know your enemy, fight one hundred battles, win one hundred battles.
*With the crew watching the fight between Jack Collins and Sun Tzu, no one noticed the ominous shadows that had come over the side and dropped quietly to the darkened deck before it was too late to do anything.*
Capt.Charlotte: Well now Captain Bonnie, we meet again. I thought that instead of waiting for you to bring your boat to me, I would greet you here. I've brought my boys and girls along with me. They will escort your crew to the hold. *She raised her voice in order that all would hear her.*
Charlotte: Since my boys and girls would like nothing better than to play rough with the lot of you, I would suggest that you play nice. Captain Bonnie will stay with me for a nostalgic interchange. All right crew. Check them out for any playthings and then get them down below!
[Note: You may find out about Capt. Charlotte de Berry by clicking on and scrolling down at http://angelfire.com/ct/TORTUGA/characters.html]
*Suddenly men and women appeared out of nowhere. Two men ran head long. The hunter jumped preparing for attack, this time there was a clear enemy it was time to let loose. Sun Tzu, jumped up and cracked one of the larger men around the face with the bottom of his foot, and swung around ready for the other. As he swung he couldn't but help noticing the fire light up in the other fighters eyes. A certain sparkle, that Sun Tzu knew well.*
The foot landed on the first mans jaw, a crunching noise could be heard, as the foot connected with the others jaw he was thrown back into a man and a woman, thus ensued utter chaos. Sun Tzu decided that it was time to put his second lesson into use. Sun Tzu fondly recalled standing in front of a group students explaining his theory's. If you can learn the enemies dispostion while the enemy does not know yours, you can gather forces and intelligence and attack it with ease*. *With sudden emergence of fighting on board the notice the dissapearence of one of the greatest warriors the earth had known, which was fine with Sun Tzu. it was time to bring this fight to an end and show these amatures how fighting is really done. Sun Tzu, the fighter the warrior the predator smiled evily, and began his true work.*
After a brave and ferocious attempt at preserving himself, Sun Tzu was subdued by an out-numbering of Captain de Berry's crew, trussed up, and carried down into the bottom of the boat where he was stacked up with the members of the Quest.
de Berry: Now. Who will elucidate an explanation of why you have invaded my territory!
Annie: I'm Annie Qakley.I believe that if I can speak with you privately, I will be able to explain our prescience in your territory, and possibly recruit you into our Quest.
de Berry: I would like to find out what this Quest is that you speak about. If it includes something valuable, both I and my boys and girls may certainly be interested! Untie her! Come this way Oakley!
[This is a role-playing game for mature persons 18 years or older. No knowledge of the books in the series is necessary though it may help. The name Riverworld is a trademark of Philip Jose Farmer. If you would like to join us on the QUEST, click on
