From Ashes To Scales

After finishing breakfast, my companions and I set off to explore the port town of Bellvola. The crisp morning air carried the salty scent of the sea, invigorating our senses as we walked. Bellvola was a quaint and secluded port town, with its life and economy centered around fishing. It felt like stepping into another world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

The town's charm was undeniable. As we walked along the cobblestone streets, I took in the sights and sounds around us. Colorful fishing boats lined the docks, their sails flapping gently in the breeze. Fishermen and women, their skin tanned from long hours in the sun, moved with practiced ease, preparing their nets and gear for the day ahead. The rhythmic clinking of metal and the occasional call of seagulls added to the symphony of the harbor.

Wooden houses with thatched roofs and whitewashed walls lined the narrow streets. Each house had its own unique charm, with flower boxes under the windows and decorative seashells hanging by the doors. The streets were bustling with activity, yet there was a relaxed, almost timeless feel to the place.

As we made our way through the town, the marketplace came into view. Stalls and carts overflowed with fresh fish, colorful fruits, and handmade crafts. The merchants called out to potential customers, their voices blending into a lively chorus. I could see Rusalka's eyes light up at the sight of a stall selling intricately woven baskets, while Leona seemed fascinated by a display of shimmering seashells.

Despite the town's lively atmosphere, our mission was clear. We were searching for Rose, who had gone ahead to rent a ship for us. The harbor was the most logical place to start our search, given its prominence in Bellvola's daily life.

We approached a group of fishermen mending their nets. I stepped forward and cleared my throat.

"Excuse me, have you seen a woman named Rose around here? She's about this tall, with golden hair and a determined look in her eyes. She would be wearing the typical attire of a nun."

One of the fishermen looked up from his work and scratched his head. "Aye, I think I saw someone like that headin' towards the shipwright's shop down by the eastern docks. She seemed in a bit of a hurry."

"Thank you," I replied with a nod, feeling a sense of direction. We continued our search, following the path towards the eastern docks.

The eastern part of Bellvola was quieter, with fewer people and more storage sheds for fishing gear. The smell of salt and fish was stronger here, mingling with the scent of tar and wood from the shipwright's shop. The shop itself was a sturdy building, its walls lined with planks and tools.

We entered the shop, and the sound of hammering greeted us. Inside, a burly man was working on a small fishing boat, his muscles rippling with each strike. He looked up as we approached.

"Morning. What can I do for you?" he asked, wiping his hands on a rag.

"We're looking for a woman named Rose," I explained. "We were told she might be here arranging for a ship."

The shipwright nodded. "Aye, she was here not long ago. Said she was lookin' for a vessel. She's down at the pier, talkin' with Captain Halvar. You can't miss 'em. Although I wouldn't get my hopes up, mates."

“What's that supposed to mean?"

"You’ll find out soon enough for yourselves.”

Weird. Thanking him, we headed towards the pier. The docks stretched out into the sparkling blue waters, and I spotted Rose standing with a rugged-looking man who must be Captain Halvar. As we approached them…

“Please, understand! We have nowhere else to turn. You're our last hope! The Goddess will surely give you her blessing if you help us.”

“Sorry, lass, but only a madman would sail to Ephiria. You know how dangerous that place is? This ship is all I have and I ain't about to let it sink. Good day to you, lass.”

The man turned his back towards Rose and left. When Rose was sure she was alone… her true nature once again surfaced. She slammed her fist against a wooden crate, almost breaking it.

“That fucker! How dare he talk like that to me? I so want to chop him into pieces and harvest all his organs! He would be more useful dead than alive!”

“Err… Rose.”

“Hmm? Magnus!? You're finally awake? Took you long enough.”

“Rose, thank you for helping Leona and me. And thank you for trying to procure a ship for us. I don't know how to say this in words, but…”

“Stop right there. You don't need to say more. As I said I’m merely following you because you're my business partner and I intend to make a lot of money with you. But… sure. You're welcome. Although don't thank me just yet. It's a nightmare trying to find someone to take us to Ephiria.

I tried everything. I even tried using my feminine charm and flashing my chest… could I be losing my talent? Magnus, give my boobs a squeeze and tell me if they're still irresistible!”

“Ugh… do you hear yourself speaking? I’d rather refrain from doing something like that in public. Don't worry, you're still charming, Rose.”

“Thanks. I guess…”

Phew. I dodged that bullet. Honestly if I hang around these carnivorous girls for any longer I don't know how much longer I can suppress my libido. I’ve never had sex before, so a part of me is really scared of it. What if I’m lousy at it and my partner rejects me? But that's something to worry about another day.

“So, regarding the ship then…”

“It's impossible to find one. Almost like trying to find a needle in a coal mine.”

“Don’t you mean haystack?”

“Whatever. Finding a haystack in a coal mine.”

Leaving aside Rose’s weird phrasing, I inquired more. And according to her it's not just that people are afraid of going to Ephiria. Even if you only look at the fishermen, nobody is going beyond the golf. This is quite a predicament.

“Oya? What have we here? A couple of youngsters wanting to set sail?”

Our gazes were drawn towards the voice. It was an old lady sitting at what would seem to be a tavern. She was all alone and enjoying a cup of tea. I couldn't say how old she was but if I had to guess somewhere around 70 or 80.

“Do you have some sort of business with us?”

“Oh, my. Sorry for startling you. My eyesight isn't that good anymore but my hearing is just fine so I couldn't help but overhear what you were saying. Unfortunately leaving Bellvola by ship is pretty much impossible for now.”

We got closer to the old woman.

“Oba-san, do you mind telling us more?”

“Not at all. I enjoy a good chat. Please sit down.”

The tavern own brought additional chairs and of course asked us to buy something, which we did. But it's not like it will break the bank. Listening to this granny is more important now, so we can figure out what's wrong with this town. The sooner we leave the main continent, the better.