“Let’s go catch ourselves a monster.”
My‑re held a torch on the shore of Willow Beach on the Isle of the Eye. The scent of seaweed and algae carried in the breeze of the nighttime air. The tuxedo colored were-cat Ssskah stood next to her. The crunching of rocks preceded the voice of Lady Sheila Greywand emanating from the nighttime gloom.
“For a beach, this is rather rocky,” Sheila commented, emerging from the darkness to join them. Her boots crunched the gravel as she approached.
“Lady Greywand, the dinghy is ready to take us to the Nightie. The contingent of Lord Protectors have already boarded,” Ssskah purred and pointed to the lighted trireme in the distance on the lake. Sheila looked at the rowboat with its faded paint and fraying boards. A little water had accumulated in the bottom. Her brow wrinkled in aversion and surprise. Ssskah continued, “Apologies, the tide won’t come in for a few hours. We’ll have to meet the Nightie on the lake.”
My‑re waived her torch back and forth to indicate to the crew that Sheila had arrived. She caught a flash of fire coming from the Nightie, and a moment later, a plume of smoke burst a short distance away. Tim the Enchanter emerged from the cloud about waist-deep in the water.
Tim looked around in confusion, snorted loudly, and sloshed through the lake to the shore. Composing himself, he announced with great fanfare, “Lady of the Ice Garden, Witch of the Northern Waste, High Sorceress of Glacks Island, Lady of the Fire, the Enchantress of-”
“Thank you, Tim,” Sheila said, raising her hand and cutting off the litany.
“There is no need for you to travel in this most ridiculous manner,” Tim scoffed, gesturing to the rowboat. I shall bring you to your craft immediately, my Lady, with a simple incantation.”
My‑re looked at the half-soaked mage and cringed at the prospect of Tim the Enchanter teleporting Lady Greywand safely and dry to the Nightie.
An awkward silence passed before Sheila said, “Yes, your offer is most generous, but let us save your energy for battle with the lake beast. Besides, it has been some time since I traveled by ferry, and I am now looking forward to the experience.”
“As my Lady wishes,” Tim the Enchanter said, bowing. He then nudged in front of My‑re and Ssskah and lent his hand to help Sheila board the boat.
My‑re rolled her eyes and lit two sconces on either side of the craft for light. She and Ssskah then pushed the laden craft into the water and hopped in. Tim the Enchanter talked in hushed whispers to Sheila. He noticed My‑re watching him and motioned for the two women to start rowing. He did not give any indication he would help.
Using two oars, they began to row toward the Nightie. Sheila approached the waiting craft and said, “Let Captain Phetmolge know I desire to set sail when ready.”
“Of course. Is there anyone else we are waiting on? Is everyone aboard?” Ssskah inquired.
My‑re added, “I noticed Spymaster Timshard wasn’t on the Nightie. He seems very concerned about your well-being. Should we wait for him? Did you tell him you were leaving?”
“I am Lady Sheila Greywand. I do not have to tell ‘him’ anything.”