Morgan covered his eyes with the palm of his hand, rubbing his eyes briefly, highly embarrassed at the findings and containing well his annoyance.
"The men that came with her, good sir, are pirates of the equally feared and revered Calico Jack, the terror of the seas. I am sure you have heard of him in your travels, for all vessels have heard of the wretched man's foul deeds and butchery.
I assure you these four men would take their eyes off before willingly drool over the dragon rider's maiden or gaze at her with lustful eyes.
Granted though that these scoundrels do not understand the concept of honor, dignity or respect nor would they barter whilst they follow orders. Given their rough training it only takes four of them to kill twelve of yours on command.
On the other hand, besides being butchers, these marauders are obedient to a fault, they will do exactly no more and no less than the strictly given orders, they might as well be deaf because they are unmovable in that sense. It must be captain Calico's orders not to leave her side in which case I would recommend giving them some space besides her for they will follow you to their very deaths to remain by her side rather than face their captain's wrath... not that I would blame them for that..." muttered Morgan
Morgan raised his hand once to see the men quickly separate in two hands of fifty surrounding and closing in on the tents
"Now I am sure you need not be a matematician here. You account for no more than twelve men at best where my army dwarfs your numbers three to one at least. Fortunately for you I am here to collect the dragon emperor's daughter, crown princess Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna whom you hold captive. That does place you in a strong position to negotiate the terms of her release for I do not wish her harmed" informed Morgan
I am lord commander Sir Henry Morgan, leader of the imperial armies, at the service of the princess Ryiah, state thus your terms of release and if the princess sees it fit and approrpiate, you will be given that which you seek
I assure you no harm to you or your men, nor will you be robbed of the much needed provisions, if she is returned. Unlike the four murderers that you took into your tent, I do not revel in suffering and needless death. I much prefer reasonable agreement than unneeded bloodshed" assured Morgan
"If a race is what you seek, a race you can have indeed. I do not fear defeat yet I must speak to her royal highness first and seek her consent before any agreements are cast. I am at her command and no one else's but the imperial family" remarked Morgan
"The men that came with her, good sir, are pirates of the equally feared and revered Calico Jack, the terror of the seas. I am sure you have heard of him in your travels, for all vessels have heard of the wretched man's foul deeds and butchery.
I assure you these four men would take their eyes off before willingly drool over the dragon rider's maiden or gaze at her with lustful eyes.
Granted though that these scoundrels do not understand the concept of honor, dignity or respect nor would they barter whilst they follow orders. Given their rough training it only takes four of them to kill twelve of yours on command.
On the other hand, besides being butchers, these marauders are obedient to a fault, they will do exactly no more and no less than the strictly given orders, they might as well be deaf because they are unmovable in that sense. It must be captain Calico's orders not to leave her side in which case I would recommend giving them some space besides her for they will follow you to their very deaths to remain by her side rather than face their captain's wrath... not that I would blame them for that..." muttered Morgan
Morgan raised his hand once to see the men quickly separate in two hands of fifty surrounding and closing in on the tents
"Now I am sure you need not be a matematician here. You account for no more than twelve men at best where my army dwarfs your numbers three to one at least. Fortunately for you I am here to collect the dragon emperor's daughter, crown princess Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna whom you hold captive. That does place you in a strong position to negotiate the terms of her release for I do not wish her harmed" informed Morgan
I am lord commander Sir Henry Morgan, leader of the imperial armies, at the service of the princess Ryiah, state thus your terms of release and if the princess sees it fit and approrpiate, you will be given that which you seek
I assure you no harm to you or your men, nor will you be robbed of the much needed provisions, if she is returned. Unlike the four murderers that you took into your tent, I do not revel in suffering and needless death. I much prefer reasonable agreement than unneeded bloodshed" assured Morgan
"If a race is what you seek, a race you can have indeed. I do not fear defeat yet I must speak to her royal highness first and seek her consent before any agreements are cast. I am at her command and no one else's but the imperial family" remarked Morgan
"A princess eh.. an heiress..." the man's eyebrows in a bit of surprise. She hadn't been dressed as such when he'd found her, rather more like the pirates she sailed with. Listening to Morgan's words he dipped his head in acknowledgement of their standoff. "Of course you do have us outnumbered. I would be happy to negotiate terms in order to keep your most beloved princess unharmed."
With that he gestured to two of his men, who went to fetch Ryiah, returning with her between them, both clasping an arm. "You see she is unharmed, and.. if I may, dressed much more stunningly as well." The man moved to Ryiah and looked her over, giving her a smirk before turning back to Morgan.
Ryiah, having had enough of being manhandled and undressed, gave a glowering glare to Morgan as she stood between the two turbaned men who held her somewhat tightly, one of them with a dagger drawn and aimed at her.
"Nice of you to show up, Captain Morgan." She said with sarcasm. Her mood had turned very sour indeed, her stomach hungry, though she had been offered a few dates for a snack in the tent. The sun glittered off of the sequins bedecking her attire, as well as the few gems upon her brow. "This is ridiculous." She muttered, looking at the leader of the sand folk. "I demand release."
The leader laughed a bit, then looked to Morgan as if sharing a joke. "She is a spirited one." He said. "But seeing as she is a princess, in the company of pirates, I should like treasure to be wagered on your side for the outcome of the race. Should you win, the princess and provisions are yours. Should you lose, well... she stays with us to enjoy our hospitality and, we get your treasure, and...." the man paused, "I will still give you the provisions you need to continue your journey. Perhaps you may return at a later date with a better rider and try to win the princess again." With that he looked between them, expectant.
Ryiah sighed. He obviously wasn't going to give her over freely. The deal as he made it seemed to ensure those she traveled with would at least get the provisions they desperately needed. She swallowed, her mouth dry, and gave Morgan a nod. "We need the provisions. Just make sure you win." She said softly, a bit of her fire seeming to seep from her.
With that he gestured to two of his men, who went to fetch Ryiah, returning with her between them, both clasping an arm. "You see she is unharmed, and.. if I may, dressed much more stunningly as well." The man moved to Ryiah and looked her over, giving her a smirk before turning back to Morgan.
Ryiah, having had enough of being manhandled and undressed, gave a glowering glare to Morgan as she stood between the two turbaned men who held her somewhat tightly, one of them with a dagger drawn and aimed at her.
"Nice of you to show up, Captain Morgan." She said with sarcasm. Her mood had turned very sour indeed, her stomach hungry, though she had been offered a few dates for a snack in the tent. The sun glittered off of the sequins bedecking her attire, as well as the few gems upon her brow. "This is ridiculous." She muttered, looking at the leader of the sand folk. "I demand release."
The leader laughed a bit, then looked to Morgan as if sharing a joke. "She is a spirited one." He said. "But seeing as she is a princess, in the company of pirates, I should like treasure to be wagered on your side for the outcome of the race. Should you win, the princess and provisions are yours. Should you lose, well... she stays with us to enjoy our hospitality and, we get your treasure, and...." the man paused, "I will still give you the provisions you need to continue your journey. Perhaps you may return at a later date with a better rider and try to win the princess again." With that he looked between them, expectant.
Ryiah sighed. He obviously wasn't going to give her over freely. The deal as he made it seemed to ensure those she traveled with would at least get the provisions they desperately needed. She swallowed, her mouth dry, and gave Morgan a nod. "We need the provisions. Just make sure you win." She said softly, a bit of her fire seeming to seep from her.
As soon as the two men came to get Ryiah, Rufus, Robert, Haldor and Martin jumped to their feet, eyes set on the princess and not about to loose her from their field of vision.
Calico had ordered to watch and watch her they would, regardless of what it was she was doing or they were doing to her for the matter, observing did not include acting therefore they would neither protect nor abandon the girl, eyes fixed on her like a hawk and disregarding the rest of the world for the matter.
No sooner the men brough Ryiah out of the tent to stand before him, Morgan lowered the head and bend the knee, digging it into the burning sand to greet the empress properly, his hundred men following the gesture for the army always maintained protocol regardless of circumstance.
Not a sound was made as the men stood still like statues scattered in the burning sand letting the princess speak as she wishes and pleased, after all, it was all about her at the end of the day. They were her men, her army, the imperial army.
Morgan took her desdain on the chin making no gesture to show the least offense.
"Your grace it is an honor to be at your presence and service" assured Morgan "Your wish is my command, your royal highness" assured Morgan in as sober a voice as if they were at the throne room, raising up and with it his hundred men
Then he turned his attentions at the turban wearing merchant
"I demand you immediately remove that cuff from her ankle, prisoner or not, she's no one's slave. Afterwards, no one is to lay finger on her at all, man, woman nor beast. The next hand that is laid upon the dragoness will be cut off in a swift strike no further warning." informed Morgan calmly
"As your prisoner I am sure the princess knows your expectations and her position well enough... still that will not grant you the priviledge to bypass protocol and lay hand upon royalty" warned Morgan
"Rufus, you and your men had orders from Calico to watch her... you can add to that my orders to guard her, she may be commanded what to do but, any hand approaches, cut it without the least hesitation, any retaliation, kill" remarked Morgan knowing well marauders had no feelings nor the least hesitation nor did they fail else Calico would have already dispatched them for their failings, Calico only kept the best from among the worst.
Once he had given the boundaries he turned to face the man that owned the princess.
"I shall be the rider you seek, and should I fail, tomorrow Calico will personally attend even if my men have to bring him in chains, though, I wager he will be faster than your horses when he hears of her majesty's predicament" smiled Morgan warmly and briefly looking at her ankle meaningfully.
"Release her... you can seize me in her place until such time as the race takes place" prompted Morgan a hand raised to stop his men from so much as squeaking in protest
Calico had ordered to watch and watch her they would, regardless of what it was she was doing or they were doing to her for the matter, observing did not include acting therefore they would neither protect nor abandon the girl, eyes fixed on her like a hawk and disregarding the rest of the world for the matter.
No sooner the men brough Ryiah out of the tent to stand before him, Morgan lowered the head and bend the knee, digging it into the burning sand to greet the empress properly, his hundred men following the gesture for the army always maintained protocol regardless of circumstance.
Not a sound was made as the men stood still like statues scattered in the burning sand letting the princess speak as she wishes and pleased, after all, it was all about her at the end of the day. They were her men, her army, the imperial army.
Morgan took her desdain on the chin making no gesture to show the least offense.
"Your grace it is an honor to be at your presence and service" assured Morgan "Your wish is my command, your royal highness" assured Morgan in as sober a voice as if they were at the throne room, raising up and with it his hundred men
Then he turned his attentions at the turban wearing merchant
"I demand you immediately remove that cuff from her ankle, prisoner or not, she's no one's slave. Afterwards, no one is to lay finger on her at all, man, woman nor beast. The next hand that is laid upon the dragoness will be cut off in a swift strike no further warning." informed Morgan calmly
"As your prisoner I am sure the princess knows your expectations and her position well enough... still that will not grant you the priviledge to bypass protocol and lay hand upon royalty" warned Morgan
"Rufus, you and your men had orders from Calico to watch her... you can add to that my orders to guard her, she may be commanded what to do but, any hand approaches, cut it without the least hesitation, any retaliation, kill" remarked Morgan knowing well marauders had no feelings nor the least hesitation nor did they fail else Calico would have already dispatched them for their failings, Calico only kept the best from among the worst.
Once he had given the boundaries he turned to face the man that owned the princess.
"I shall be the rider you seek, and should I fail, tomorrow Calico will personally attend even if my men have to bring him in chains, though, I wager he will be faster than your horses when he hears of her majesty's predicament" smiled Morgan warmly and briefly looking at her ankle meaningfully.
"Release her... you can seize me in her place until such time as the race takes place" prompted Morgan a hand raised to stop his men from so much as squeaking in protest
Gesturing to his men to release Ryiah's arms, he nevertheless shook his head at Morgan's words. "Nay, no one will be taking her place. But we shall have the race forthwith, so that her captivity, if you win, will not be prolonged. Until then, no one will lay hand on her, as you say." He inclined his head, and his men stepped a breath a way from rhe princess, though kept their scimitars trained on her. "As for the cuff, how do i know she will not become the raging dragoness I have heard of, should it be removed? I think I need the assurances that the cuff provides until she is not longer my captive."
Next, the leader gestured to a man who brought a mount to Morgan. The steed was fine indeed, of sleek arabian decent, its face a bit dish shaped, its eyes full of fire. "This mount will see you well thought the ordeal. Pit yourself against my best men. No weapons allowed. But all is fair game during the race. The princess will await you at the finish line."
With that the leader gestured to more men to show Morgan where he could refresh himself before the race, and to look over a map of the course as outlined. It traversed nearly the whole of the island, through dangerous quicksand infested grounds, where no doubt there were also scorpions, spiders, and snakes to contend with. Each man began and ended with only what he took with him, a few flasks of water, a bag of dates, and clothed in the desert garb which would keep him from burning under the sun. The rest was up to wits, wiles, and knowledge of where to find water along the way, how to live through sandstorms, and make it back alive.
Ryiah watched with concern as the game was gone over for Morgan's benefit, worried he would perish in the attempt. Her anger had ebbed, worry taking its place. But what could she do? What could had she to offer so that no one else would be placed in harms way?
Before Morgan was shown to his tent to refresh Ryiah turned to the leader, "let me race in his stead. I am sure I am not the best rider, yet, I am canny and perhaps I would last. If I survive, you will give my men their provisions."
Next, the leader gestured to a man who brought a mount to Morgan. The steed was fine indeed, of sleek arabian decent, its face a bit dish shaped, its eyes full of fire. "This mount will see you well thought the ordeal. Pit yourself against my best men. No weapons allowed. But all is fair game during the race. The princess will await you at the finish line."
With that the leader gestured to more men to show Morgan where he could refresh himself before the race, and to look over a map of the course as outlined. It traversed nearly the whole of the island, through dangerous quicksand infested grounds, where no doubt there were also scorpions, spiders, and snakes to contend with. Each man began and ended with only what he took with him, a few flasks of water, a bag of dates, and clothed in the desert garb which would keep him from burning under the sun. The rest was up to wits, wiles, and knowledge of where to find water along the way, how to live through sandstorms, and make it back alive.
Ryiah watched with concern as the game was gone over for Morgan's benefit, worried he would perish in the attempt. Her anger had ebbed, worry taking its place. But what could she do? What could had she to offer so that no one else would be placed in harms way?
Before Morgan was shown to his tent to refresh Ryiah turned to the leader, "let me race in his stead. I am sure I am not the best rider, yet, I am canny and perhaps I would last. If I survive, you will give my men their provisions."
Morgan paused at length thinking the man's words
"Sir... give me but water and a few hours and the steed I shall return the steed and its rightful rider. Your challenge must be done by Calico himself for he seeks the quick sands, the sandstorms and and the drought from the heatwaves of this island. It is what brought us here in the first place" reported Morgan
"If successfully done, by the end of the race, we will have our princess and return these arid lands to the luscious greenery and fertile lands this soil was famous for in a not too long gone past." explained Morgan
"Should he fail, I will accomplish the task as I am even without even your water skins, for a good rider needs only a good steed to reach the end of any treacherous route" assured Morgan confidently
"Sir... give me but water and a few hours and the steed I shall return the steed and its rightful rider. Your challenge must be done by Calico himself for he seeks the quick sands, the sandstorms and and the drought from the heatwaves of this island. It is what brought us here in the first place" reported Morgan
"If successfully done, by the end of the race, we will have our princess and return these arid lands to the luscious greenery and fertile lands this soil was famous for in a not too long gone past." explained Morgan
"Should he fail, I will accomplish the task as I am even without even your water skins, for a good rider needs only a good steed to reach the end of any treacherous route" assured Morgan confidently
The leader nodded, moving a few paces forward to clasp hands with Morgan if he was willing to seal the arrangement. "Very well, take the steed and return as you can. The princess will remain comfortable here, I assure you." He smirked again, then turned to beckon his men to bring water to Morgan.
Ryiah had listened to the exchange, figuring that herself riding in the race was out of the question, neither man having responded to her request. Crossing her arms over her chest, Ryiah tried to settle herself with the idea of staying among the sand people a while longer. She found herself missing the swell of the sea and the freedom of the ship as it flew over the glassy waters.
She thought back to Calico. How would he ride if he was unwell? She bit her lip. Perhaps she could just escape, then it would be unnecessary.... except they still needed the supplies.
Turning, she blinked demurely at the leader of the sand folk. "Please sir.. I beg you, just give my people food and water, they will soon perish without it, no matter what happens to me." She lowered her eyes humbly, which wasn't easy before these people, fluttering her eyes once again.
The leader watched her, a smile growing on his face. "That's a demeanor I like to see on a woman. " he stroked his beard. "Well then I don't see why not. We will still have our race." He then ordered his men to see that plenty of provisions were brought with Morgan back to his ship.
Ryiah had listened to the exchange, figuring that herself riding in the race was out of the question, neither man having responded to her request. Crossing her arms over her chest, Ryiah tried to settle herself with the idea of staying among the sand people a while longer. She found herself missing the swell of the sea and the freedom of the ship as it flew over the glassy waters.
She thought back to Calico. How would he ride if he was unwell? She bit her lip. Perhaps she could just escape, then it would be unnecessary.... except they still needed the supplies.
Turning, she blinked demurely at the leader of the sand folk. "Please sir.. I beg you, just give my people food and water, they will soon perish without it, no matter what happens to me." She lowered her eyes humbly, which wasn't easy before these people, fluttering her eyes once again.
The leader watched her, a smile growing on his face. "That's a demeanor I like to see on a woman. " he stroked his beard. "Well then I don't see why not. We will still have our race." He then ordered his men to see that plenty of provisions were brought with Morgan back to his ship.
Calico's men namely Rufus, Robert, Haldor and Martin made no move to touch neither food nor water for the time being, daggers and cutlass out, though the blades rested downwards, ready to strike any hand that came anywhere near close to the princess.
"Well, it's good to see a touch of black on your lips, but, stop biting them else you'll ruin your fine dress and you will owe this men a greater debt. Surely you know once a dragoness transforms, so does her mind and blood, not that red would be less of a stain" advised Rufus pointing at her bitten lip.
"Indicate us where to go, master turban, and we will follow and make sure she does too" smiled Rufus briefly closing in on her keeping this man's men at arm's length from her, now with Morgan's orders permission to maim was given and so they would certainly make use of it if it came to that.
Morgan waved twenty men to come over and help bring the provisions to the ship. "The rest of you... obey the empress" reminded Morgan "Not a move she doesn't command..." remarked sharply taking the horse and some water and making haste to the ship to explain everything to Calico.
When he reached the shore he rubbed his eyes, wondering if he was seeing a mirage, for the wooden ship that they had left docked, was now all made of solid gold down to the last sail and anchor. The sails design however and the dragon head shape were clear indication that this was indeed his ship. Thus he boarded wearily.
Upon boarding the ship, he found Taff passed out on deck, a strange mist of golden glowing fairies surrounding him to keep him alive under a shade despite the heat. It was them who had decorated the ship to their liking with their pixie powder, whilst tending to Taff. Magic folk protected its warlock, its master, but... by the time Taff consented to their help, Taff was much too drained and weakened to even be awake or aware any more. The scorching heat became too much to bear by the time he allowed magic to intervene in his favour.
Morgan leaned gently by the young manservant, taking him carefully if respectfully and feeding him slowly a water skin, letting him rest in Calico's quarters
He fed Calico water and the rest of the large crew that remained on the ship, making his men prepare food for them all, pirates, army soldiers and the new merchants, for they all needed nourishment and strength indeed. He waved the turban wearing men aboard to join them at the ship,in peace, where they would all sit and eat and drink and merry make until Calico was good and ready to return to their presence and accompany them back.
When Taff was recovered, he looked started at the golden room that looked more like a treasure trove than the ship he had boarded, sneezing at the pixie powder that had covered him head to toes making him look a golden statue. He used this to invigorate his powers and finally heal Calico, casting one spell and another to restore the man to health and strength, knowing well the journey would not be an easy one
No sooner Morgan saw Calico open his eyes, he proceeded to explain it all, where the girl was, with whom, and what was demanded off them. Calico at first was furious enough to run Morgan through the sword were it not for the fact that Morgan took the precaution to disarm the man beforehand and tie him down no sooner he entered the captain's quarters.
"Keep your wrath for the royal palace... scallywag, you will get your duel with me and it will be your last as well" assured Morgan sharply.
The two men quite rivalled each other in skill and bickering causing Taff to hide and cower from their altercation, shaking himself from the pixie dust and waving it away before it could be misused, turning to the little creatures gratefully, blowing over them to cool them off a little and let them rest on his shoulders and head as he came down to meet these turban wearing merchants, watching them eat and joining in their modest feast.
He offered the pixies water from his cup, and introduced himself politely, "Greetings...I´m Taff... the royal manservant" introduced Taff briefly keeping quiet after that.
"Well, it's good to see a touch of black on your lips, but, stop biting them else you'll ruin your fine dress and you will owe this men a greater debt. Surely you know once a dragoness transforms, so does her mind and blood, not that red would be less of a stain" advised Rufus pointing at her bitten lip.
"Indicate us where to go, master turban, and we will follow and make sure she does too" smiled Rufus briefly closing in on her keeping this man's men at arm's length from her, now with Morgan's orders permission to maim was given and so they would certainly make use of it if it came to that.
Morgan waved twenty men to come over and help bring the provisions to the ship. "The rest of you... obey the empress" reminded Morgan "Not a move she doesn't command..." remarked sharply taking the horse and some water and making haste to the ship to explain everything to Calico.
When he reached the shore he rubbed his eyes, wondering if he was seeing a mirage, for the wooden ship that they had left docked, was now all made of solid gold down to the last sail and anchor. The sails design however and the dragon head shape were clear indication that this was indeed his ship. Thus he boarded wearily.
Upon boarding the ship, he found Taff passed out on deck, a strange mist of golden glowing fairies surrounding him to keep him alive under a shade despite the heat. It was them who had decorated the ship to their liking with their pixie powder, whilst tending to Taff. Magic folk protected its warlock, its master, but... by the time Taff consented to their help, Taff was much too drained and weakened to even be awake or aware any more. The scorching heat became too much to bear by the time he allowed magic to intervene in his favour.
Morgan leaned gently by the young manservant, taking him carefully if respectfully and feeding him slowly a water skin, letting him rest in Calico's quarters
He fed Calico water and the rest of the large crew that remained on the ship, making his men prepare food for them all, pirates, army soldiers and the new merchants, for they all needed nourishment and strength indeed. He waved the turban wearing men aboard to join them at the ship,in peace, where they would all sit and eat and drink and merry make until Calico was good and ready to return to their presence and accompany them back.
When Taff was recovered, he looked started at the golden room that looked more like a treasure trove than the ship he had boarded, sneezing at the pixie powder that had covered him head to toes making him look a golden statue. He used this to invigorate his powers and finally heal Calico, casting one spell and another to restore the man to health and strength, knowing well the journey would not be an easy one
No sooner Morgan saw Calico open his eyes, he proceeded to explain it all, where the girl was, with whom, and what was demanded off them. Calico at first was furious enough to run Morgan through the sword were it not for the fact that Morgan took the precaution to disarm the man beforehand and tie him down no sooner he entered the captain's quarters.
"Keep your wrath for the royal palace... scallywag, you will get your duel with me and it will be your last as well" assured Morgan sharply.
The two men quite rivalled each other in skill and bickering causing Taff to hide and cower from their altercation, shaking himself from the pixie dust and waving it away before it could be misused, turning to the little creatures gratefully, blowing over them to cool them off a little and let them rest on his shoulders and head as he came down to meet these turban wearing merchants, watching them eat and joining in their modest feast.
He offered the pixies water from his cup, and introduced himself politely, "Greetings...I´m Taff... the royal manservant" introduced Taff briefly keeping quiet after that.
Ryiah felt shocked to see the drops of black where she had drawn blood from her anxious biting of her lips, blinking in confusion. Black blood? She glanced at Rufus, "alas, there is much I do not know about my dragon heritage. My father did not share his secrets. I will have to learn them the hard way.
Having been taken back to the harem tent and provided with food and water, she finall felt satisfied, her stomach no longer growling. Standing then, a guard only posted at the front of the tent, Ryiah began pacing like a caged tiger, her mind on Morgan and Calico. How would the pirate ride in bis condition? She worried for his life, the race sounding dangerous indeed.
The men glanced askance at Taff as he joined them, but under orders to not harm any of Morgan's men they did not interfere with the manservant joining their feats, merely watching him curiously, as he batted the dust from his clothing. A few of them gave the boy a nod, but most said nothing.
Meanwhile, riders had been arriving as the word was spread of the race. They gathered near the starting point, most of them ready with their allowance of gear and provions. Their mounts seemed edgy, as if they knew what was coming and looked forward to it.
Having been taken back to the harem tent and provided with food and water, she finall felt satisfied, her stomach no longer growling. Standing then, a guard only posted at the front of the tent, Ryiah began pacing like a caged tiger, her mind on Morgan and Calico. How would the pirate ride in bis condition? She worried for his life, the race sounding dangerous indeed.
The men glanced askance at Taff as he joined them, but under orders to not harm any of Morgan's men they did not interfere with the manservant joining their feats, merely watching him curiously, as he batted the dust from his clothing. A few of them gave the boy a nod, but most said nothing.
Meanwhile, riders had been arriving as the word was spread of the race. They gathered near the starting point, most of them ready with their allowance of gear and provions. Their mounts seemed edgy, as if they knew what was coming and looked forward to it.
Once Calico had calmed down and settled, he came to the dinning quarters to meet these men. He was dressed in fine attire indeed, all golden velvets and golden silks for the fairies never did half jobs especially when they were bored. Even his shoes and weaponry were glamorous, a vessel and crew fit for an emperor indeed, rather than feared and fearsome pirates.
"Greetings gentlement I am lord Calico Jackworth Pont-de-Ter, captain of this vessel, I trust the food was to your satisfaction? I thank you for the timely provisions. Now... if you are finished, I have a race awaiting. Care to point me the way?
Please... help yourselves and take what treasures you find pleasing on this ship for this wager of yours" offered Calico keeping the five storm seeds, well tied to his belt, opening everything else to their greedy desires.
"Taff... the lighting rod.. turn it into a ring, I´ll be doing some treasure hunting along the race... according to our map, there's three more on this island." instructed Calico looking at the manservant who dutifully complied to his master's command delivering the dragon shaped ring into Calico's hand who wore it calmly.
"Greetings gentlement I am lord Calico Jackworth Pont-de-Ter, captain of this vessel, I trust the food was to your satisfaction? I thank you for the timely provisions. Now... if you are finished, I have a race awaiting. Care to point me the way?
Please... help yourselves and take what treasures you find pleasing on this ship for this wager of yours" offered Calico keeping the five storm seeds, well tied to his belt, opening everything else to their greedy desires.
"Taff... the lighting rod.. turn it into a ring, I´ll be doing some treasure hunting along the race... according to our map, there's three more on this island." instructed Calico looking at the manservant who dutifully complied to his master's command delivering the dragon shaped ring into Calico's hand who wore it calmly.
Once Calico should return to the sand village, the leader would gather everyone at the starting line of the race. Horses pawed the earth, eyes like fire, snorting and pulling at their bits.
Ryiah had been taken out to observe the race beginning, and stood under a tent off to the side, the cuff still about her ankle, two guards standing near with cutlasses, yet none laying hand on her for the time being. Her gaze would perhaps meet Calico's, and there would be worry easily visible, despite her attempts to hide it. But... he looked much more well than last she'd seen him, had he been healed?
She sighed softly as she listened to the leader's second hand man go over the rules, walking back and forth in front of the line of anxious horsemen. "May the best man win." He finished simply, raising the flag and preparing to give the signal should all appear to be ready.
Ryiah wished she could go... wished she didn't have to let Calico face the trials dangers without her. It wasn't just. It was her quest. More black blood slid down her lip as she bit it hard, perhaps a bad habit of hers. She mouthed the words "good luck."
Ryiah had been taken out to observe the race beginning, and stood under a tent off to the side, the cuff still about her ankle, two guards standing near with cutlasses, yet none laying hand on her for the time being. Her gaze would perhaps meet Calico's, and there would be worry easily visible, despite her attempts to hide it. But... he looked much more well than last she'd seen him, had he been healed?
She sighed softly as she listened to the leader's second hand man go over the rules, walking back and forth in front of the line of anxious horsemen. "May the best man win." He finished simply, raising the flag and preparing to give the signal should all appear to be ready.
Ryiah wished she could go... wished she didn't have to let Calico face the trials dangers without her. It wasn't just. It was her quest. More black blood slid down her lip as she bit it hard, perhaps a bad habit of hers. She mouthed the words "good luck."
Calico came over to meet the host and to check on the princess, personally, not trusting a word from Morgan for the matter and seeking to meet the man who held the woman as a slave.
"Greetings... sir. I do not yet know your name but I must thank you for your courtesies towards the provisions you so generously provided my crew with, at the expense of your own.
Honor compells me to thank the respect which you have endowed the princess with, so far. Many dishonorable men would have found pleasures at her expense already. I appreciate you have refrained from doing so despite her being your captive, rightfully so.
I am lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter the former emperor's master-at-arms... I hope to make more acquaitance beyond the finish line. I shall be her majesty's rider on this grand occasion.
I am aware of the terms of the race and agree to submit to them. Thus, alongside the princess which you already hold in your possession, I bring to you twenty chests of treasure that your own men have selected from my vessel. There is more treasure where this came from as well, should I fail her highness.
Given we are new unknown terrain, victory is not always assured though I am sure Sir Henry Morgan will definitely win if I fail to do so..." explained Calico confidently, speaking calmly if humbly, the knee buried into the sand at the princess presence, his eyes set on her beauty which was all the more mesmerizing in this elegant arabian dress which hugged her figure rather tightly at that. "I must compliment your lavish taste, you do know how to bring about a queen's natural beauty all the more so" smiled Calico saluting the man though his eyes remained on her "The finest prize indeed" grinned Calico to tease her a little.
"Last but not least, I must also thank you for such noble steed as well. I must say it is a compliment to you, to own and lend me such fine horse indeed. This is one of the finest Arabian bedouin horses I've seen. Purest in race, strength and beauty.
Horses as this are rare to find and a priviledge to ride. They are resilient in the harshness of desserts, quick to learn, strong and fast riders, willing to please their rider, alert to their surroundings and intelligent animals indeed, their stamina and endurance is by far their greatest trait, I am not sure I will last in the heat of this dessert, the horse however I am certain it shall go on just fine." described Calico very familiar indeed with horses.
"With your leave, I have a race to partake at...." smiled Calico patting the beast gently and respectfully, taking out the map and turning it a couple of times, gazing at the shape and number of trees to position himself at the map. Staring at it at length once he had marked his position.
Clearly Calico was not interested at all in following the safe trail that had been marked out but rather aimed directly to the storm seeds with the intention to venture directly into the heart of danger to collect them.
"I need a bag of sugar cubes and a bandage for my horse, a rope and a headscarf for myself... that is all I ask for the journey" explained Calico disarming and leaving the weaponry belt into Taff's arms, handing him the storm seeds bag and the map too now that he had the outline of the path he would follow well engraved in his mind
"If you can, keep the slave safe for me till we meet up again..." asked Calico nudging Taff forward "He is... one of a kind..." assured Calico leaving Taff under the care and command of the turban man, watching the warlock wince and grit his teeth.
Taff came to sit by the princess, as Calico bowed to Ryiah and the turban man respectfully, courteously and getting back onto the horse and rejoining the line of competitors who were focused on reaching the finish line instead.
"Greetings... sir. I do not yet know your name but I must thank you for your courtesies towards the provisions you so generously provided my crew with, at the expense of your own.
Honor compells me to thank the respect which you have endowed the princess with, so far. Many dishonorable men would have found pleasures at her expense already. I appreciate you have refrained from doing so despite her being your captive, rightfully so.
I am lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter the former emperor's master-at-arms... I hope to make more acquaitance beyond the finish line. I shall be her majesty's rider on this grand occasion.
I am aware of the terms of the race and agree to submit to them. Thus, alongside the princess which you already hold in your possession, I bring to you twenty chests of treasure that your own men have selected from my vessel. There is more treasure where this came from as well, should I fail her highness.
Given we are new unknown terrain, victory is not always assured though I am sure Sir Henry Morgan will definitely win if I fail to do so..." explained Calico confidently, speaking calmly if humbly, the knee buried into the sand at the princess presence, his eyes set on her beauty which was all the more mesmerizing in this elegant arabian dress which hugged her figure rather tightly at that. "I must compliment your lavish taste, you do know how to bring about a queen's natural beauty all the more so" smiled Calico saluting the man though his eyes remained on her "The finest prize indeed" grinned Calico to tease her a little.
"Last but not least, I must also thank you for such noble steed as well. I must say it is a compliment to you, to own and lend me such fine horse indeed. This is one of the finest Arabian bedouin horses I've seen. Purest in race, strength and beauty.
Horses as this are rare to find and a priviledge to ride. They are resilient in the harshness of desserts, quick to learn, strong and fast riders, willing to please their rider, alert to their surroundings and intelligent animals indeed, their stamina and endurance is by far their greatest trait, I am not sure I will last in the heat of this dessert, the horse however I am certain it shall go on just fine." described Calico very familiar indeed with horses.
"With your leave, I have a race to partake at...." smiled Calico patting the beast gently and respectfully, taking out the map and turning it a couple of times, gazing at the shape and number of trees to position himself at the map. Staring at it at length once he had marked his position.
Clearly Calico was not interested at all in following the safe trail that had been marked out but rather aimed directly to the storm seeds with the intention to venture directly into the heart of danger to collect them.
"I need a bag of sugar cubes and a bandage for my horse, a rope and a headscarf for myself... that is all I ask for the journey" explained Calico disarming and leaving the weaponry belt into Taff's arms, handing him the storm seeds bag and the map too now that he had the outline of the path he would follow well engraved in his mind
"If you can, keep the slave safe for me till we meet up again..." asked Calico nudging Taff forward "He is... one of a kind..." assured Calico leaving Taff under the care and command of the turban man, watching the warlock wince and grit his teeth.
Taff came to sit by the princess, as Calico bowed to Ryiah and the turban man respectfully, courteously and getting back onto the horse and rejoining the line of competitors who were focused on reaching the finish line instead.
Ryiah didn't know whether to be flattered or annoyed at Calico's words, as well as his eyes which freely roamed her during his speech to the bedouin leader. Instead of sayimg anything else, she simply murmered, "be careful pirate."
As Calico departed, the men next to Ryiah prompted her to sit atop cusions piled beneath a large tent, were they would serve the meal once the riders had departed. Ryiah didn't feel hungry, but did as asked, sitting for once meekly making no trouble. She offered a tired and resigned smile to Taff who was left nearby, offering a lift of her bare shoulders as if in apology.
The bedouin leader dipped his head to Calico as the man spoke courteously to him. "We bedou do not offer names as freely as your folk seem to, yet I will now offer mine. Harrishim, and it would be a pleasure to continue the acquaintance should you live through the race. I would be sad to part with such a jewel as your princess however, she would, and possibly will, make a find addition to my harem." He glanced her way, adding another nod at Calico's compliment. "The clothing does indeed suit her fiery hair and eyes." He said with a smirk.
With that, as Captain Jack took his place back in line, Harashim lifted a hand, and without further ado signaled the race to begin.
The sand was stirred mightily all around as some horses and riders started off with a jolt, others allowing them to take the lead for the time being. To hopefully later spring ahead. One such man seemed cunning, and well used to these races. On his arm was a hawk, hooded for the time being and it made no sound, obviously well trained. The man had ebony skin, his head shaved bald though he was clad as the rest of the bedouin, and his face was mostly obscured by the wraps.
He seemed to keep an eye on Calico, as if the newcomer was one to watch. For the time being he would allow his mount an easy ground eating pace which the arabian steeds were known for. The first obstacle on the map being the near invisible quicksands.
As Calico departed, the men next to Ryiah prompted her to sit atop cusions piled beneath a large tent, were they would serve the meal once the riders had departed. Ryiah didn't feel hungry, but did as asked, sitting for once meekly making no trouble. She offered a tired and resigned smile to Taff who was left nearby, offering a lift of her bare shoulders as if in apology.
The bedouin leader dipped his head to Calico as the man spoke courteously to him. "We bedou do not offer names as freely as your folk seem to, yet I will now offer mine. Harrishim, and it would be a pleasure to continue the acquaintance should you live through the race. I would be sad to part with such a jewel as your princess however, she would, and possibly will, make a find addition to my harem." He glanced her way, adding another nod at Calico's compliment. "The clothing does indeed suit her fiery hair and eyes." He said with a smirk.
With that, as Captain Jack took his place back in line, Harashim lifted a hand, and without further ado signaled the race to begin.
The sand was stirred mightily all around as some horses and riders started off with a jolt, others allowing them to take the lead for the time being. To hopefully later spring ahead. One such man seemed cunning, and well used to these races. On his arm was a hawk, hooded for the time being and it made no sound, obviously well trained. The man had ebony skin, his head shaved bald though he was clad as the rest of the bedouin, and his face was mostly obscured by the wraps.
He seemed to keep an eye on Calico, as if the newcomer was one to watch. For the time being he would allow his mount an easy ground eating pace which the arabian steeds were known for. The first obstacle on the map being the near invisible quicksands.
Calico started the race not at all racing forward but stopping the horse right away and getting off the horse, removing the horse saddle and tossing it away, the water skins and anything of added weight, quickly left behind. He even took off his own boots to leave those behind as well, and used but the simple rope to ride the horse more freely.
He removed his jacket and whatever clothes he happened to be wearing except the thin headscarf, a light baggy blouse and the silk braies as well as his socks. Calico knew he had to become one with the horse, and like infant children, these animals needed the trust of skin to skin contact to bond more rapidly with their rider, as much of it as possible, alongside large amounts encouragement.
He wasn't going to ride this horse like a commanding and demanding master as all others did, but he decided to become one with the beast and use its skills to compliment his own and accomplish his mission. He had kept a dagger in his sash a dagger, the sack of sugar cubes as well as the gag for the horse and a bag of pebbles.
Calico jumped onto the beast patting it gently and brushing it lovingly for a while, starting at a slow pace and building up speed and confidence, talking to the beast and giving it a name, Jack, before using his heels to get the beast bolted and forward, holding the rope firmly and embracing the horse's neck gently, hanging onto it for dear life, feeling its warmth and its breath and focusing on brushing it encouragingly alongside words of praise.
"Go on Jack, we can take them over, you can do it!" urged Calico "yeeehaaaaa" shouted Calico in satisfaction after they had passed most of the raiders by quite a bit of distance.
His eyes kept watched the other riders, briefly, some being swallowed by quick sands among shouts of despair, soon after neither rider nor horse seen again, such scenes made him a little edgy if cautious, but in no way was he going to change his mind or path set.
Whilst advancing at speed, he tossed the pebbles at the lighter patches of sand that sure enough turned out to be quick sands indeed. He had carried a bag of pebbles and used those to toss them at the patches of quick sand and count their layout and number just like his map had revealed to him earlier. He counted the nine different patches of quick sands to his left and deviated course heading straight right and inland instead, away from the marked race path altogether.
He went to seek the largest quicksand that he was certain would contain the storm seed within.
Along the race so far, he had noticed the rider with a hawk but he had far more important matters at hand than to focus on just winning the race... those storm seeds had to be found as well, in the process, there were three to be had and right now, he was heading straight to the very first one.
Upon seeing the large furious pool approach, he swallowed hard, grabbed the gag and wrapped it quickly over the horses head to stop it from breathing, swallowing sand or even seeing the patch, kicking the horse forward in a strong jump aiming for the very heart of it. He needed to fall into its very bottom and quickly to seize that storm seed before running out of air, he took a deep breath, legs well wrapped up around the horse and arms opened sideways, either his right or his left arm would seize the gem.
The minutes were quickly passing and it seemed as the man had failed at the task, the last sound being the horse's nay as they jumped into what seemed to be certain death.
Calico waved his arms leaning sideways to the left to feel for the stone, eyes closed tightly, before doing the same gesture leaning towards the right instead, finally his finger scrabbing and his hand grabbing the gem into his palm. By then the situation was dire, he had ran out of air and it was a matter of moments before he would pass out or be forced to breath in sand. Then, in that last dramatic moment, the swirl spat him and the horse back out, the soil becoming as soil and sandy as desserts ought to be, the golden gem secure and safe into his hand
"Yahoooo ! You did it, Jack, we did it!" gleamed Calico removing the gag from the horse and offering a handful of sugar cubes to earn its trust back, riding it forward and sideways, no longer worried by the no longer present quicksands,
focusing on gaining ground and catch up to the race. The horse would be spooked by now and full of stamina, the perfect combination to make up for lost time indeed and forward the pair trotted, glidding through the wind as if they were not two but one, the survival of such experience certain to make horse and rider bond closer than best friends.
Upon seeing the rider with the hawk not far off behind them, Calico spurred the horse further forward.
"Two more and we go for the finish line, go on, we can do it... I know we can, we are Calico and Jack" encouraged Calico worried about the man behind but keeping the storm seed secure and safe out of sight and out of reach.
He removed his jacket and whatever clothes he happened to be wearing except the thin headscarf, a light baggy blouse and the silk braies as well as his socks. Calico knew he had to become one with the horse, and like infant children, these animals needed the trust of skin to skin contact to bond more rapidly with their rider, as much of it as possible, alongside large amounts encouragement.
He wasn't going to ride this horse like a commanding and demanding master as all others did, but he decided to become one with the beast and use its skills to compliment his own and accomplish his mission. He had kept a dagger in his sash a dagger, the sack of sugar cubes as well as the gag for the horse and a bag of pebbles.
Calico jumped onto the beast patting it gently and brushing it lovingly for a while, starting at a slow pace and building up speed and confidence, talking to the beast and giving it a name, Jack, before using his heels to get the beast bolted and forward, holding the rope firmly and embracing the horse's neck gently, hanging onto it for dear life, feeling its warmth and its breath and focusing on brushing it encouragingly alongside words of praise.
"Go on Jack, we can take them over, you can do it!" urged Calico "yeeehaaaaa" shouted Calico in satisfaction after they had passed most of the raiders by quite a bit of distance.
His eyes kept watched the other riders, briefly, some being swallowed by quick sands among shouts of despair, soon after neither rider nor horse seen again, such scenes made him a little edgy if cautious, but in no way was he going to change his mind or path set.
Whilst advancing at speed, he tossed the pebbles at the lighter patches of sand that sure enough turned out to be quick sands indeed. He had carried a bag of pebbles and used those to toss them at the patches of quick sand and count their layout and number just like his map had revealed to him earlier. He counted the nine different patches of quick sands to his left and deviated course heading straight right and inland instead, away from the marked race path altogether.
He went to seek the largest quicksand that he was certain would contain the storm seed within.
Along the race so far, he had noticed the rider with a hawk but he had far more important matters at hand than to focus on just winning the race... those storm seeds had to be found as well, in the process, there were three to be had and right now, he was heading straight to the very first one.
Upon seeing the large furious pool approach, he swallowed hard, grabbed the gag and wrapped it quickly over the horses head to stop it from breathing, swallowing sand or even seeing the patch, kicking the horse forward in a strong jump aiming for the very heart of it. He needed to fall into its very bottom and quickly to seize that storm seed before running out of air, he took a deep breath, legs well wrapped up around the horse and arms opened sideways, either his right or his left arm would seize the gem.
The minutes were quickly passing and it seemed as the man had failed at the task, the last sound being the horse's nay as they jumped into what seemed to be certain death.
Calico waved his arms leaning sideways to the left to feel for the stone, eyes closed tightly, before doing the same gesture leaning towards the right instead, finally his finger scrabbing and his hand grabbing the gem into his palm. By then the situation was dire, he had ran out of air and it was a matter of moments before he would pass out or be forced to breath in sand. Then, in that last dramatic moment, the swirl spat him and the horse back out, the soil becoming as soil and sandy as desserts ought to be, the golden gem secure and safe into his hand
"Yahoooo ! You did it, Jack, we did it!" gleamed Calico removing the gag from the horse and offering a handful of sugar cubes to earn its trust back, riding it forward and sideways, no longer worried by the no longer present quicksands,
focusing on gaining ground and catch up to the race. The horse would be spooked by now and full of stamina, the perfect combination to make up for lost time indeed and forward the pair trotted, glidding through the wind as if they were not two but one, the survival of such experience certain to make horse and rider bond closer than best friends.
Upon seeing the rider with the hawk not far off behind them, Calico spurred the horse further forward.
"Two more and we go for the finish line, go on, we can do it... I know we can, we are Calico and Jack" encouraged Calico worried about the man behind but keeping the storm seed secure and safe out of sight and out of reach.
The man had trailed Calico Jack, watching his feat into the heart of the quicksand and out again, his eyes widening in wonder, even as they hardened that a man would send his steed into such depths. Still clutched the hawk on his left hand, guiding the horse with his knees, his own gear light as well, though he carried a scimitar like many of the others.
When Calico reappeared to continue the race, the man's face darkened and he removed the hood from the hawks head, casting the bird into the sky. The pirate was a threat if he could do such feats and come out of them alive. Already many of those racing had perished and many more would, as on the horizon a sandstorm loomed.
Before the storm hit, however, the hawk struck its prey, raising back into the air with a viper dangling from its grasp, to be dropped to the man below, who caught it by its head and stuffed it into a basket he carried for the purpose, latching it securely.
When Calico reappeared to continue the race, the man's face darkened and he removed the hood from the hawks head, casting the bird into the sky. The pirate was a threat if he could do such feats and come out of them alive. Already many of those racing had perished and many more would, as on the horizon a sandstorm loomed.
Before the storm hit, however, the hawk struck its prey, raising back into the air with a viper dangling from its grasp, to be dropped to the man below, who caught it by its head and stuffed it into a basket he carried for the purpose, latching it securely.
Calico patted the horse gently, feeding it more sugar cubes
"Come on... Jack... come on... a straight line sideways from here, alright? Forward, don't stop, don't hold back. Let's ride against the currents!" urged Calico covering the horse's eyes with the bandage yet again so he would not be startled by the strong winds or get blinded by the sand, spurring the horse forward, guiding its course and path using the ropes gently so as to not injure the horse rather hint it which way to run towards.
He himself kept his eyes tightly closed, marking the path to be followed, from what he had learned from the map, away from the actual race. He needed the heart of the storm, a strong wind wouldn't be enough to provide the coveted storm seed and, given the scorching sun, perhaps he could collect the both together. It was not out of the realm of possibilities that the brown and yellow gem stones laid side by side, given thatheatwave with drought would inevitably follow hand in hand with a terrible sandstorm as they were venturing into.
Once he had these two other gems, all he would need to focus on was reaching the end of the race and without the strong winds playing against them and without the scorching heat, it was a far more reachable target. There were only five riders left of the twenty five that had started the race and three of them far too behind to be a bother
Besides the map hard marked the two stars touching each other, they had to be together for sure.
With such hopes he urged and rushed the horse further and forward, deeper and deeper into the scorching blast o of hot air, the sand itself tearing into his clothes and skin, like a whip lashed at speed, though luckily the horse seemed to endure it far better than his own clothes and skin.
"Come on... Jack... come on... a straight line sideways from here, alright? Forward, don't stop, don't hold back. Let's ride against the currents!" urged Calico covering the horse's eyes with the bandage yet again so he would not be startled by the strong winds or get blinded by the sand, spurring the horse forward, guiding its course and path using the ropes gently so as to not injure the horse rather hint it which way to run towards.
He himself kept his eyes tightly closed, marking the path to be followed, from what he had learned from the map, away from the actual race. He needed the heart of the storm, a strong wind wouldn't be enough to provide the coveted storm seed and, given the scorching sun, perhaps he could collect the both together. It was not out of the realm of possibilities that the brown and yellow gem stones laid side by side, given thatheatwave with drought would inevitably follow hand in hand with a terrible sandstorm as they were venturing into.
Once he had these two other gems, all he would need to focus on was reaching the end of the race and without the strong winds playing against them and without the scorching heat, it was a far more reachable target. There were only five riders left of the twenty five that had started the race and three of them far too behind to be a bother
Besides the map hard marked the two stars touching each other, they had to be together for sure.
With such hopes he urged and rushed the horse further and forward, deeper and deeper into the scorching blast o of hot air, the sand itself tearing into his clothes and skin, like a whip lashed at speed, though luckily the horse seemed to endure it far better than his own clothes and skin.
Taff disregarded the men around him and sat down calmly, legs crossed and took up a bowl, tipping the water away, not interested in neither food nor drink and clearly busy, with his mind working away.
He put the platter on his lap and grabbed a handful of sand, muttering words at it as he released the sand to watch it turn into grains of gold no sooner they fell from the palm of his hand onto the platter, he put three handfuls of the gold dust and placed the five storm seeds touching one another, the crystal white that looked a giant sparkling diamond, the blue one that sparkled like an intense sapphire, the silver one, the green one that shone like an emerald and the black one as shiny and smooth as a black onyx stone.
He took water and poured it to brimming, casting a handful of pixie dust and swirling the content with the finger to make a swirl as he spoke a few more words.
He rested the hands on the knees able to see the missing gemstones and watched the events unfold, how Calico with much strain, brave struggle had managed to venture into the heart of the quicksand and take out the golden gemstone that was bright as pure gold can be.
He focused his eyes, and saw Calico and his horse, bandaged to blindness to protect their eyes, strain against the strong winds, looking on as Calico collected the brown storm seed from the raging winds, a storm seed that looked like a large smoky quarts causing the winds to suddenly stop and vanish altogether, leaving the unbearable scorching heat to content with until the yellow storm seed, as clear as amber stone, was taken into his hands.
Calico looked the worse for wear with his torn back, but all in all he had managed to accomplish the task of retrieving the three gems, causing light rain to return and with it the hope for greenery and livelihood and water
Taff tipped the water away to disturb the visions, taking up the storm seeds and pocketing them safely, leaving but a platter full of gold sand once the water had been discarded.
He looked at Ryiah with a small smile on his face, not needing to tell her the good news for she and, anyone who had cared to look, had been able to see for themselves all that Taff had witnessed.
"He will be here soon, your highness" appeased Taff
Calico had what he came for in the first place, at which point he rejoined the race, made much bearable by the cloudy skies and cooler winds.
Calico pocketed the storm seeds safely, securing them from damage or theft and removed the horse's blindfold, as they both rushed forward the finishing line well in sight at this point, only three racers left and he was at the front of the hawk wearing man, though he was closing in
He put the platter on his lap and grabbed a handful of sand, muttering words at it as he released the sand to watch it turn into grains of gold no sooner they fell from the palm of his hand onto the platter, he put three handfuls of the gold dust and placed the five storm seeds touching one another, the crystal white that looked a giant sparkling diamond, the blue one that sparkled like an intense sapphire, the silver one, the green one that shone like an emerald and the black one as shiny and smooth as a black onyx stone.
He took water and poured it to brimming, casting a handful of pixie dust and swirling the content with the finger to make a swirl as he spoke a few more words.
He rested the hands on the knees able to see the missing gemstones and watched the events unfold, how Calico with much strain, brave struggle had managed to venture into the heart of the quicksand and take out the golden gemstone that was bright as pure gold can be.
He focused his eyes, and saw Calico and his horse, bandaged to blindness to protect their eyes, strain against the strong winds, looking on as Calico collected the brown storm seed from the raging winds, a storm seed that looked like a large smoky quarts causing the winds to suddenly stop and vanish altogether, leaving the unbearable scorching heat to content with until the yellow storm seed, as clear as amber stone, was taken into his hands.
Calico looked the worse for wear with his torn back, but all in all he had managed to accomplish the task of retrieving the three gems, causing light rain to return and with it the hope for greenery and livelihood and water
Taff tipped the water away to disturb the visions, taking up the storm seeds and pocketing them safely, leaving but a platter full of gold sand once the water had been discarded.
He looked at Ryiah with a small smile on his face, not needing to tell her the good news for she and, anyone who had cared to look, had been able to see for themselves all that Taff had witnessed.
"He will be here soon, your highness" appeased Taff
Calico had what he came for in the first place, at which point he rejoined the race, made much bearable by the cloudy skies and cooler winds.
Calico pocketed the storm seeds safely, securing them from damage or theft and removed the horse's blindfold, as they both rushed forward the finishing line well in sight at this point, only three racers left and he was at the front of the hawk wearing man, though he was closing in
The hawk man had to make his move now, or else it would be too late. Driving his horse as fast as he could, he urged it to catch only man between himself and the finish line. There was yet a mile at least to traverse before the end was reached. Enough time for the venom to work, keeping the man from winning, and allowing the hawk man to steal the shiny orbs he'd seen.
Neck and neck with Calico Jack, the man reached into the basket taking the viper by the head and flinging towards Calico so that it landed across the horse, near enough to bite both man and beast.
Then he swerved away, calling his hawk to soar overhead. Surely he would win now earning treasures and a name for himself as well as the beautiful princess for his leader.
Ryiah had watched the scens Taff's summoned with baited breath, the air catching in her lungs each time the pirate seemed to surely be about to die. Her hand covered her lips, unable to look away. Yet as the rogue pulled away with all storm seeds she nearly cried out with relief, looking at Taff with shining eyes, a grin on her lips. "I knew he could do it." She whispered, and she had, despite her fear for him.
The leader had not not seen the images, yet, standing nearby he heard Ryiah's exultant words. He moved a bit closer, running his gaze over her yet not touching. "Don't get too excited my dear. The race is not yet won."
Rain was falling softly, causing the air to glisten almost, and cool Ryiah's achingly hot skin. She ignored the bedouin leader and tilted her face to the sky, glad to let the rain fall upon it.
Neck and neck with Calico Jack, the man reached into the basket taking the viper by the head and flinging towards Calico so that it landed across the horse, near enough to bite both man and beast.
Then he swerved away, calling his hawk to soar overhead. Surely he would win now earning treasures and a name for himself as well as the beautiful princess for his leader.
Ryiah had watched the scens Taff's summoned with baited breath, the air catching in her lungs each time the pirate seemed to surely be about to die. Her hand covered her lips, unable to look away. Yet as the rogue pulled away with all storm seeds she nearly cried out with relief, looking at Taff with shining eyes, a grin on her lips. "I knew he could do it." She whispered, and she had, despite her fear for him.
The leader had not not seen the images, yet, standing nearby he heard Ryiah's exultant words. He moved a bit closer, running his gaze over her yet not touching. "Don't get too excited my dear. The race is not yet won."
Rain was falling softly, causing the air to glisten almost, and cool Ryiah's achingly hot skin. She ignored the bedouin leader and tilted her face to the sky, glad to let the rain fall upon it.
Calico had expected the bird to attack, for the storm seeds were bright as gold against the sun, no sooner the bird came close enough to seize his storm seeds, Calico had the bag of pebbles ready and cast the pebbles to the bird letting the bird of prey seize the large pebbles instead of the gems that were well guarded and better protected. He was a pirate in his own right, no way he would let himself be robbed of treasure by man nor beast.
He did not, however, envisage foul play from the rider himself when it tossed the viper at Calico. Calico knew it was a case of him or the horse or both and the horse had to reach the finish line to win. He snatched the snake tightly against his forearm, letting it dig the fangs into his arm and pressed its head so the slimy creature would not move or dislodge. He held onto Jack by his ankles tightly and tied the gag tightly around the arm to slow the blood flow. The poison was inevitable but the finish line was close enough to make it across and claim his victory once and for all, with the snake still attached to his arm.
In his haste to reach Taff, he hurried his horse forward beyond his twisted competitor and used the bag pebbles chucking the leftovers at this man's horses eyes, nose, mouth, its rider too, they were all well aimed pellets that would temporarily blind the beast to disorient the horse and its rider, tossing the last of sugar cubes well beyond the finish line to encourage his horse faster to its own reward, well aware of the horses having a sweet tooth.
Sure enough it had been a hard and close competition but Morgan had not doubted Calico's skill nor his ability to win.
By then, however, Calico's arm had grown numb and blue, hand swollen and cold, his vision blurry by the time Jack passed the finish line first and stopped to lick the sugar cubes to reclaim his treasure, oblivious of its rider's dire condition.
Once finished the sweet threats, Jack returned to the master's tent, with Calico laying on the horse and breathing with difficulty.
"It is done..." muttered Calico tossing the storm seeds at Taff and sliding off the horse onto the sandy ground, unable to find the strength to stand, crawling to the princess and Taff, the snake still there by the time he passed out.
He did not, however, envisage foul play from the rider himself when it tossed the viper at Calico. Calico knew it was a case of him or the horse or both and the horse had to reach the finish line to win. He snatched the snake tightly against his forearm, letting it dig the fangs into his arm and pressed its head so the slimy creature would not move or dislodge. He held onto Jack by his ankles tightly and tied the gag tightly around the arm to slow the blood flow. The poison was inevitable but the finish line was close enough to make it across and claim his victory once and for all, with the snake still attached to his arm.
In his haste to reach Taff, he hurried his horse forward beyond his twisted competitor and used the bag pebbles chucking the leftovers at this man's horses eyes, nose, mouth, its rider too, they were all well aimed pellets that would temporarily blind the beast to disorient the horse and its rider, tossing the last of sugar cubes well beyond the finish line to encourage his horse faster to its own reward, well aware of the horses having a sweet tooth.
Sure enough it had been a hard and close competition but Morgan had not doubted Calico's skill nor his ability to win.
By then, however, Calico's arm had grown numb and blue, hand swollen and cold, his vision blurry by the time Jack passed the finish line first and stopped to lick the sugar cubes to reclaim his treasure, oblivious of its rider's dire condition.
Once finished the sweet threats, Jack returned to the master's tent, with Calico laying on the horse and breathing with difficulty.
"It is done..." muttered Calico tossing the storm seeds at Taff and sliding off the horse onto the sandy ground, unable to find the strength to stand, crawling to the princess and Taff, the snake still there by the time he passed out.
Ryiah gasped as Calico rode in, the viper attached to his arm, she was on her feet in an instant despite the gaurdd reaching for her arm to halt her. She glared daggers at them, and one dropped his arm, the other seeming to calculate the risk of stopping her.
Then Calico was laying nearby, passed out and looking near dead. Turning she jerked a scimitar from an unsuspecting guard, who seemed in shock, raced over and severed the vipers head. The jaws slackened and she tore it from Calico's arm.
With a wild glance to Taff, she then lowered her mouth to the puncture wound and began sucking at Calico's blood, hoping to draw both tainted blood and poison from the man. There was no time for a dragon transformation unless she could get him stabalized, else he'd be dead ere she could heal him.
Kneeling next to the man, rain drizzling down still, soaking everyone, she continued sucking from the wound, spitting it out each time and careful to keep from swallowing any. Her eyes were wide and she worked in a near frenzy, forgetting both her position as captive, though Calico had indeed won the race, and her position as princess.
Would he live? Ryiah kept working, seemingly oblivous to the others around her, whon seemed to merely be capable of watching in astonishment of both the wounded man, and the great changes he'd brought to their once sweltering sand heap.
Then Calico was laying nearby, passed out and looking near dead. Turning she jerked a scimitar from an unsuspecting guard, who seemed in shock, raced over and severed the vipers head. The jaws slackened and she tore it from Calico's arm.
With a wild glance to Taff, she then lowered her mouth to the puncture wound and began sucking at Calico's blood, hoping to draw both tainted blood and poison from the man. There was no time for a dragon transformation unless she could get him stabalized, else he'd be dead ere she could heal him.
Kneeling next to the man, rain drizzling down still, soaking everyone, she continued sucking from the wound, spitting it out each time and careful to keep from swallowing any. Her eyes were wide and she worked in a near frenzy, forgetting both her position as captive, though Calico had indeed won the race, and her position as princess.
Would he live? Ryiah kept working, seemingly oblivous to the others around her, whon seemed to merely be capable of watching in astonishment of both the wounded man, and the great changes he'd brought to their once sweltering sand heap.
Taff placed a gentle grip on Ryiah, seeing her try so frantically to revive Calico
"Ryiah, you've done what you could, allow ... to do the rest...." asked Taff taking out all of the storm seeds and placing them by Calico's limp body, well aware the dragon's breath was needed for this.
She may have been wearing a cuff but the storm seeds were many now, almost complete set, and their calling was powerful enough to drag raw magic out of her.
"Sendara, I summon you, come forth and heal your rider!" called out Taff having felt the pulse weaken further, kneeling by the rider's body, Calico's bitten hand placed upon the storm seeds.
"Ryiah, you've done what you could, allow ... to do the rest...." asked Taff taking out all of the storm seeds and placing them by Calico's limp body, well aware the dragon's breath was needed for this.
She may have been wearing a cuff but the storm seeds were many now, almost complete set, and their calling was powerful enough to drag raw magic out of her.
"Sendara, I summon you, come forth and heal your rider!" called out Taff having felt the pulse weaken further, kneeling by the rider's body, Calico's bitten hand placed upon the storm seeds.
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