Chapter 61: Aboard the Ship
Mikael's reasoning was straightforward. Although the locals didn't provide a clear indicator of the sea beasts' strength, the Records had stated that the enemies could reach up to Peak Tier 1. He concluded that a sea beast measuring 10 meters long would likely fall within that range. Of course, he acknowledged the possibility of being wrong, but even if he underestimated their power, he wasn't afraid to face stronger opponents. Nevertheless, he resolved to remain cautious—after all, he now had someone to return to.
The group continued their walk while the middle-aged man introduced himself. He was the vice captain of the ship they would be protecting, Ruimis Cybuvius. He continued to provide additional information, though not as critical as the initial details. Mikael made sure to take note of everything, though. Soon, the group arrived at a port.
The port was unusually quiet, with only a small number of people present, each wearing a tense expression. Most of those around were dressed in similar sailor attire to the vice-captain, with flintlock muskets strapped to their backs. Despite the calm atmosphere, the sight of the large ships docked at the port was striking. Each vessel appeared durable and of exceptional quality, but one at the center commanded attention like no other.
This towering behemoth of wood and steel dominated the scene. Its reinforced hull gleamed faintly in the light, with iron bands interwoven with dark oak, giving it an aura of unmatched strength. Massive masts stretched high into the sky, their sails neatly furled, while intricate carvings of mythical beasts adorned its bow. The ship dwarfed its neighbors, casting long shadows over the smaller vessels, which seemed almost insignificant in comparison. It was the crown jewel of the port, a testament to power and craftsmanship.
Peeking through small, evenly spaced openings along the sides of the ship were rows of cannons, their dark barrels a silent testament to the vessel's formidable firepower. Multiple tiers of these weapons lined the ship, arranged in vertical rows that maximized their coverage and efficiency. These cannons, poised and ready for action, emphasized both the ship's defensive and offensive capabilities, imbuing it with the aura of an unassailable fortress upon the water.
The group approached the ship, which immediately drew the attention of the nearby sailors, who quickly recognized the vice-captain.
One sailor stepped forward and saluted. "Welcome back, vice-captain... These are...?"
"They will be protecting the ship during this dangerous trip," Ruimis replied.
At his words, the sailor's expression turned uncertain, skepticism clearly etched on his face. After all, the only reliable means of protecting a ship were firearms and cannons, and even those were often insufficient against the ferocious sea beasts. The notion that these young adults, some clad in armor and other in weird clothes, could defend the vessel against such threats seemed highly improbable. Human strength alone appeared far too limited in the face of the sea beasts overwhelming ferocity.
Ruimis added, "All of them are sorcerers."
At his words, the sailor's eyes widened in fear. Eight sorcerers would be with them? If they were offended by his earlier doubt, they could curse him!