Thread: High Seas Adventure (Zynode & darkangel76)

Night had given way to dawn and its rosy shades were slowly fading as the sun rose higher in the sky, giving way to full morning. The night had seemed long and Charlotte hadn't slept much at all. Her nervousness and worry were getting the best of her and everywhere she turned, she swore she could feel eyes watching her, studying her, predicting her every movement as if in wait. Though she groggily meandered about the winding roads of New Caledon donning a boy's attire, she could not help how she felt. After all, it would only be a matter of time before Tobias learned of her absence... before all of the household learned. A shaky hand reached up and brushed against her brow line, pushing at her red locks and re-tucking them under the cap she wore upon her head. Just then, the aroma of the sea struck at Charlotte's nose. She could smell the salt and the fish, the smell of wet wood and weathered metals. The harbor. All too soon she'd be upon the harbor where all the great ships took anchor. Most of them were merchant ships, some perhaps belonging to an explorer or two. But she couldn't begin to tell the difference between the various vessels that had docked. To her, they all appeared the same, just varying in size or shape, some having a few more decorative busts than others or prettier flags. As Charlotte looked over the ships, she could feel her mouth going dry. Slowly, life was beginning to emerge and that only made her more nervous. Had Tobias sent word in the night? Would someone come looking for her? Were they already looking? She didn't want to think on it and couldn't. Shaking off the thoughts, she clutched tightly to her bag and set her sights on one vessel that seemed interesting in comparison to the others. She couldn't say why it beckoned as it did nor did she have the time to dwell on such matters. Time was her enemy. Time and Tobias. Swallowing hard, Charlotte looked down upon her booted feet, he eyes scanning downward over her body. She hoped she looked the part as much as she felt it she did and now she hoped she could play it. Licking at her lips, she stepped toward the ship in the distance. Right then left and then right again. Slowly, she moved forward, her hands clenching and unclenching about the straps of her bag. Her life would never be the same once she boarded that ship. She knew this full well. But she was left with no other alternative, no other choice. With a heavy heart full of fear, Charlotte finally took the first step along the platform leading to board the ship. She squinted her pale eyes and could see one of the crewman on deck. Perhaps he could answer her question, the dreaded question she'd pose in hopes to get away from New Caledon and Tobias forever. Sir? Charlotte asked after clearing her throat. She shifted her stance slightly, a hand moving to tug on her cap. Does your ship require a Ship's Boy? If so, I... I'm your man. She felt herself die a little on the inside as the words rolled over her tongue. I don't require much in pay, just enough. And some meals. I... her voice trailed a moment. She could feel her emotions roiling deep inside as she tried her best to hide her identity and leave her life behind. Damn you, Tobias! I work hard and learn quick. Won't find a better Ship's Boy than me.