Diego Storn's Travel Diary
From Diego Storn’s Diary #4
After Jasper’s paws healed, we packed up our camp and continued to follow the north bank of the Kadarin. I was feeling uneasy, since we were within sight of the Ridenow Domain just across the river, and I am not exactly a popular person among the Ridenow. Jasper, however, was eager to go and I found myself grateful that the bit of MacAran Gift I possess lets me work so well with dogs. The company that this little guy gives me has made my journey light.
By late afternoon, we could clearly smell the sea, the salt odor clinging to the air. We arrived at the mouth of the Kadarin at supper time. Still on the north side of the river, we built a fire on the shore, warmed our supper, and watched the waves foam up under the evening sky. Two of the moons, Ariel and Liriel, were clearly visible. Later, as the fire died down, I pitched the tent and we slept.
The following day was spectacular. The morning sun glinted pinkly on the water; there was a light breeze and again we were blessed with extremely warm weather for this time of year. Heading north up the coast, with the coastal hills between us and the Drytowns, we came upon a small fishing village. A small cluster of boats bobbed around the pier. Jasper and I approached and hailed a woman who was gutting and filleting the morning’s catch. I chuckled to myself that this hard-working soul was literally a “fishwife”, yet that derogatory term probably applied more aptly to some of those bellicose personalities I met in Thendara. The woman was very reluctant to talk to me, not in the least because Jasper was sniffing her with that long nose of his. Eventually, I asked her an important question: did anyone in the village have a small boat for sale?
As I brought out my money pouch, her attitude changed. Yes, she told me, her brother-in-law had a small sailboat that wasn’t being used any more. Now that her sister’s children were grown and working on the family fishing fleet, they weren’t interested in such toys. I got directions, saw that the little boat would suit us just fine, and began to bargain. Actually, I wasn’t concerned about the cost, but in this culture, anyone who doesn’t bargain is viewed suspiciously. In any case, the boat was mine.
I hadn’t sailed since I was a boy, and that was on Vainwal when mother and I visited. I knew the basic principles and soon we were on our way. Jasper seemed a natural little sailor, head held high in the breeze and tongue lolling out. I was concerned, since I am prone to motion sickness, but the water was relatively calm and I was able to keep breakfast down. I hope to follow the coast south, for I want to visit Marilla and Piedro at Dalereuth Tower. I need to use the library in person, for it contains some important resources, especially in its map collection, which I will need as I continue my journeys.
Read Diary Entry #1
Read Diary Entry #2
Read Diary Entry #3
Read Entry #5
Read Entry #6: At Dalereuth Tower
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