Chapter 171: Getaway
Irwin stood on the dock with Xi'balak, watching four guards carry off the third and final sail, which technically should have been his backup.
Their return trip had been fast and without further incident, which was a pleasant surprise. Although the three remaining ships had followed them for a few hours, none of them had dared overload their sails to catch up. Eventually, they had turned around and headed back.
That was less than an hour ago.
As soon as they had arrived, Xi'balak had left for half an hour before returning with a contingent of guards to bring the sails away. He'd also been looking at Irwin oddly.
"I am sorry, Irwin, leader of Giard's Rangers," Captain Xi'balak said. "I hope my help makes up for some of it."
Irwin didn't respond but silently crossed his arms. He turned around to watch Xi'balak's crewmen attach the fourth sail to his ship. Rindiri was watching what they did, calling the occasional order, which was obeyed immediately.
He knew that the help attaching the sail was Xi'balak's way to show he was sorry for taking the extra one, but compared to having Rindiri and her kids attach the sail while having a backup in the hull, it felt like a poor trade. Still, it would save them a day.
His mind drifted back to Daubutim, now one-eyed, and he gritted his teeth. For a moment, he felt like walking off and leaving Xi'balak standing before he managed to reign in his anger.
Can't let what happened to Daubutim sour the relations more than they already have, he thought as he took a deep breath and looked at Captain Xi'balak.
"It compensates some, but if you could assist us in getting supplies for a long voyage, that would be better," he said.
Xi'balak's face-plates chitted softly, in what Irwin had learned was a sign of apology.
"Leader Irwin, I am sorry, but there is already a shortage of food here. Sesnanser is still struggling to grow enough crops for itself, and the amount we get is barely enough to sustain us."