After struggling with baulky rigging, the Downwind Dasher arrives at Bibek with the other vessels. Margrave Simbran is waiting there to give the visitors a proper welcome.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

92 - Arrival At Bibek

Disclaimer: The original characters and plot of this story are the property of the author. No infringement of pre-existing copyright is intended. This story is copyright (c) 2024 Penny Lane. All rights reserved.

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The barge lurched again, this time accompanied by shouts from above. The commotion was enough to waken Ursula and Tyra from their afternoon naps, both stretched out on spare camp beds in the hold of the Downwind Dasher among all the other occupants.

"What's happening? More traffic?" she asked, half awake.

Toshi had come down to the hold to act as chaperone-cum-sentry while the two women dozed. Ursula knew that she and Tyra would be safe with him given the Kittrin's inherent sense of duty. His presence was probably unnecessary since none of her patients were likely to attempt anything unseemly but there were unwritten customs to be followed. He answered now.

"Change of course, Director. See?" He gestured at the canvas awning above them, where the shadows of the mast, sail and rigging could be seen slowly moving as the barge changed direction.

Tyra was the one who noticed the discrepancy. "Mistress, should we not be turning to the right? That is not the way we are going."

Ursula looked at Toshi, who shrugged. "Nothing was said in my hearing, Director. Captain Hashim intends to make for Bibek, that is all I know, but I also know that sometimes, when on the water, it is necessary to take a longer route to reach one's destination."

"Thank you, Toshi, that is probably the answer." She yawned, stretched and sat up, feeling the different motion as the barge angled across the current, going... somewhere. "Perhaps we had better go on deck and find out what is going on."

"Hai."

He let the two women climb the rungs first before following them up and squirming out from under the awning. Ursula stood looking at the perfectly circular hole in the canvas near where they had emerged.

"I am amazed that there has been no fraying yet," she remarked.

"It will fray after a few days," he replied. "The canvas is stretched taut and properly tensioned, so the forces are balanced. Only careless use will cause it to fray, Director." He looked up at the sail, uncharacteristically flapping above them. "If it had been a hole in the sail it would not have worked, since the stresses there change all the time."

She stared at him. "Balanced? Stresses? Where did you learn those concepts?"

"As a Prince of my house, you could say, I was made to spend time with each of the trades that kept Dithereen prosperous so that, should I succeed my father, I would be fully informed. A sailmaker showed me this useful idea for making holes in decorative screens. Until today I had not thought it could have any practical use, it seems I was mistaken."

"And you would leave the hole just like that? With a raw edge?"

Toshi shook his head. "No, Director, unless it was fairly small, say no more than hand-sized. Normally the women of the island would come and bind the edge with decorative tapestry. We have - had - many screens made this way, with holes high up and low down to provide modesty but to allow cooling air to flow through the chambers of the palace."

"But this is not a decorative screen, you made it so that we could lower the pel into the hold."

Toshi frowned. "Was that not what was required, Director? If so you may have my -"

Ursula waved a hand. "No, no, it was exactly the right thing to do and you have my thanks for doing it. The alternative would have been to unlace a corner of the awning and that would have taken time. You knew what to do and you did it."

Toshi bowed. "Thank you, Director."

Hashim joined them. "Director, you have no doubt noticed that we no longer sail upstream."

"Yes, Captain. I assume the situation is the reverse to that when we left Zebrin City and had to go downstream before we could cut across to come upstream?"

He nodded. "In a way, that is so, Director, but normally I would have expected to be able to get into Bibek without having to do that, I have done so several times in the past. Our problem is the blocks above which adjust the boom position. I must apologize to both you and to Tyra, I was remiss, I asked Tyra to come down once she had found the jammed block. It did not occur to me then that another of the blocks would jam later. I should have waited until she had inspected all of them."

Everybody automatically looked up and a slack line showed where one of the lowest-level blocks had also jammed.

"What does that prevent you doing, Captain?"

"Director, because our course was previously north-west you saw that the sail was nearly fore-and-aft, giving us a good speed as the wind was deflected," Hashim explained. "To enter the Faral river means that we must needs haul the boom around as our direction changes. Because I cannot shift the boom along, to do so would cause us to list dangerously and possibly make us unable to navigate."

"Ah. Because the weight on each side would be unbalanced."

"You have it, Director. I can go downwind, that is what I intend to do, and then we can cross back over and let the current bring us to Bibek."

"Won't you have the same problem when we reach Bibek?"

Hashim smiled. "No, Director, because we will approach it from the other direction and that gives us different options."

Ursula nodded. "You know what you are doing, Captain," adding, "more than I do, anyway! Carry on."

"Thank you, Director. If I may have the use of Toshi, we will need all hands for these maneuvers."

"Do you want Tyra as well? We have been in the hold most of the day, it will make a change to stay on deck until we arrive."

Hashim looked surprised and then grateful. "Thank you, Director, she will be most useful. But there will be no need for any further mast-climbing, I deem." He looked astern and then added, "I must needs speak with Her Highness, Director, about the change of plan. It would only be proper for her own ship to arrive first, she is the most important of all of us."

He issued instructions to adjust the sail and then walked down to the stern. The sail was reefed so that the Visund could come up to the Dasher's stern. A short conversation caused Eriana jump from ship to barge, where Hashim explained the problem and his solution. She nodded, said a few words and jumped back, whereupon the Visund backed off and then veered away towards the Faral shore.

Ursula, having thanked Tyra, walked back towards the stern to meet Hashim.

"I think I'll stay back here out of the way," she told him. "Unless you have other ideas."

"Thank you, Director, this would be the better place for you to stand and view our activities. By your leave?"

"Of course, Hashim."

He nodded to Ursula and then strode forward, calling instructions as he went. She turned and found Ormund, his hands on the tiller, his face one of concentration as he tried to keep the Dasher on course.

«Hard work? You will not be used to this style of steering.»

«Yah, Mistress... Director. But in ways it is easier since I only need to pull from side to side, not hold the oar steady as we need do on Einnland ships.»

«And can you see and hear all right when Captain Hashim asks for a change of course?»

«Usually, Director, but the cabin is in the way so sometimes it is difficult to see what is going on. Fortunately the whistle sounds are clear enough to hear.»

Ursula frowned.

I wonder why they decided to build barges this way? To my way of thinking the cabin ought to be right at the back with the steersman and tiller on top, so that he can see everything clearly.

What do I know? I'm just a junior medic from a landlocked city that was hundreds of kilometers from any sea.

...That had a large and busy river flowing right through the middle of it! But I never imagined I would spend part of my life traveling up and down a similar river on a commercial barge.

...And have somehow become part of a regional Navy, who by definition is going to need numbers of water craft.

Is this what happened to Maralin?

«There are ways...» she began slowly, «to make the steersman's position better. By fixing ropes or chains to the end it should be possible for you to steer it from somewhere else, perhaps even near the bow. But we cannot start modifying someone else's barge, we will have to design our own.»

«Ropes or chains? Yah, Director, I see what you mean. Ah, Director, the Captain wants me to steer a little more right now.»

Ursula stepped back as far as she could. «Carry on, Ormund. I'm just a passenger here.»

He snorted while heaving on the tiller. «More than that, Director!»

The Dasher had by now crossed most of the way to the Zebrin side and Ursula could easily make out the forest of pontoon poles which marked out Zoon. The 'mangrove' vegetation had failed to reach the tip of the Zebrin peninsula revealing a low-lying town set in marshy fields, still too far away to make out any detail.

At one point Hashim had the sails reefed up and the tiller turned sharply to avoid a newly-revealed mudbank in the shallow side of the river. From then on the sail was kept reduced so that they progressed at a slower speed than the wind would have permitted, but with more time to spot obstructions.

Zoon approached and Ursula could see that, as was inevitable, the buildings were set a long way back from the present water level. The slipways for the ferries were incredibly long and gangs were taking advantage of the low river level to do some much needed work on sections which would be submerged for most of the year.

Beside the slipway were two strings of pontoons. Most of the craft tied up were small, implying that there was little commerce to Zoon but mostly the port was sustained by fishing and the ferry.

Poor assumption there. Maybe barges like this one just can't get close enough when the river is this low.

As the Dasher passed by she could see that all three of the ferries were working, which presumably meant increased traffic between Zebrin and Faral.

Of course there would be, given the big change in the political situation.

Hashim joined them once the town had been passed.

"We'll have to cross the river again in a moment," he told both Ursula and Ormund, "and then we'll be sailing back to reach Bibek." He drew a large 'C' in the air with his finger and Ormund nodded. "As well as the steering changes we'll be adjusting the boom and sail while we do it, so beware of lines which might catch you. The sail might end up over your head."

"Yah, Captain," Ormund answered. "Afterwards, straight run to Bibek?"

Hashim nodded. "That is what I plan, yes. By then we should have picked up enough speed from the current to run us straight into Master Yussuf's wharf, but," he held up a warning finger, "there may be traffic along the Faral river we'll need to dodge."

"Yah, Captain, understood."

Ursula asked, "Master Yussuf's wharf? I thought we were going to the Royal Dock or somewhere sounding like that."

Hashim smiled. "As did I until it was explained, Director. The two are the same place, a separate enclosed dock on the Sirrel where Master Yussuf has sheltered room for his barges. I believe that his promotion to Minister may have something to do with the change of name."

"Interesting. So we do not need to enter the Faral river."

"As you say, Director."

The river turned sharply south on the upstream side of Zoon which meant the Dasher was now facing almost the opposite way to its previous course. Despite Hashim's reservations this meant that the boom and sail had to be gradually worked round, making the barge tilt alarmingly for a while. Eventually the narrow end of the triangular sail was on Ursula's right and the low end of the boom somewhat close to the roof of the cabin.

Now I know why the steersman has to be down here! I did not know these sails could be moved all the way around like that.

Then Hashim gave the order and the Dasher swung right, directly across the Sirrel, here about a mark and a half wide. As it did so the sail was hauled up to avoid having to shift the boom again. Once they were facing the other direction in the fast downstream current some of the sail was let out, allowing a degree of control over their steering way.

Their progress was such that the marks flew past rapidly until the left-hand bank swung away to form the mouth of the Faral river. At this point they were joined by two Faral cutters under sail, one either side. Hashim waved to them and the steersman in each briefly stood and saluted. Once this happened Hashim made everyone, even Ursula, look out for stray craft which might cross their path, but fortunately there was nothing nearby which could cause trouble.

The current from the Faral meant that Ormund had to fight to keep the Dasher on course, straight across the river mouth towards two white-painted posts on the far side. When they were close enough Ursula could see that the posts, surmounted by beacons, were at the ends of two moles that went some distance into the Sirrel, enclosing a fair-sized protected lagoon.

"In between the walls, Ormund."

"Yah, Captain."

As they passed between the beacons the cutters bore away. Inside the lagoon they were faced with three large boathouses. The leftmost one had half of Zebrin's Tusk sticking out while the rightmost one had the Spirit of Bibek berthed in it. The middle one appeared to be empty. On the right two Faral galleys were moored up against the harbor wall. To Ursula's immediate left was a long, wide pontoon stretching away from them with a crowd of people on it and the Visund freshly berthed, with the Green Ptuvil tying up behind it, taking up most of the remaining space.

"Ormund! Steer for the end of that long pontoon. There is no room for us to berth but we need directions."

Ursula asked, "Can we not tie up against the Green Ptuvil, Captain?"

Hashim grimaced. "Ordinarily I would do that, Director, but, if I might remind you, we would have no means of getting our passengers out and across to the dock. We have a hoist, the Green Ptuvil does not, but if we were to attempt to do it all ourselves we would foul the other barge's rigging."

She nodded. "See? Something else I have learned about barging."

Once out of the currents of the two rivers the Dancer had rapidly lost way and it was barely moving as Ormund nudged the side against the end of the pontoon. Dock hands caught thrown ropes and made fast. Hashim ordered the sail furled but left in place until he knew what to do. With a nod to Ursula, he jumped onto the pontoon and was soon in conversation with several Faral officials.

When he returned he said, "We are to go into the middle boathouse, it seems. All three boathouses have lifting gear, naturally, which can be used to raise our passengers and move them out of the hold. To get to the boathouse a cable must needs be brought by small boat, ah, see that man? He runs around the dock to give the instructions. Apparently this was all arranged once His Grace knew what vessels were coming."

A small boat came out of the boathouse rowed, Ursula saw, by four Farals with a fifth steering. Behind them was trailed a small cable which had wooden floats roughly seized to it every two strides. When it reached the Dancer the steersman tossed the end up to the bow and then untied it from his boat. They moved smartly away and the crewman who had caught the cable walked the end along the length of the barge and secured it at the stern. Ursula wondered what was about to happen.

Of course.

Puffs of white steam came from behind the boathouse and the cable tightened. It was too heavy to come completely out of the water but it did not need to. The Downwind Dancer was slowly rotated, the mooring lines at the bow were released and then the barge was pulled stern first across the lagoon towards the middle boathouse. Seeing what was about to happen, Hashim ordered the boom to be lowered to the deck and the sail properly stowed.

He then turned to Ursula. "They have many men on the capstan, I deem," he muttered. "I have never been pulled in so fast!"

"I doubt they even bother with the capstan these days, Captain," Ursula said. Hashim's head whipped around. "See that steam puffing up behind the boathouse? I suspect they are using a steam engine to pull us in."

"A... steam engine? What is that?"

"Did you not..? Probably not! It is a device designed to save men the use of extreme muscle power. It is filled with water which is then boiled. The steam is trapped and can be used to perform tasks that would require many men to do."

"But... the capstan? It can do such a thing?"

"Captain, with a big enough engine this whole barge could be lifted straight out of the water, crew, passengers and all. We can use steam power to propel barges, in fact almost any water craft, in several different ways. That is why I wanted to keep that stripped galley, to see if we could fit a steam engine inside it."

Hashim's eyes were wide but there was a strong hint of doubt on his face. Ursula pointed into the rapidly approaching boathouse.

"You will see it for yourself, Captain. You do not have to rely on my word alone."

Hashim colored. "Director, you know that I will always rely on your word, I know that you would not tell me any falsehood. By your leave, we are about to arrive."

He strode forward, ordering the crew to be ready with poles to ensure the Dasher did not collide with the sides of the boathouse. By chance there was already a barge berthed to one side, so he changed instructions to ease them to the other side. There were floating pontoons against the walls and men on theirs swiftly took the thrown ropes and made the Dasher fast.

A party of four Zebrins were the first to come aboard. They saluted Hashim and then made their way to stand in front of Ursula at the stern. She recognized two of them as two of the men who had laced the awning onto the framework above the hold before they left Hamalbek.

"Director, we have come to release the awning, that your men may be safely brought ashore."

Ursula gestured. "By all means, gentlemen. I regret that we found it necessary to make a hole near the mast in order to lower pots of hot pel down to our passengers."

"Ah. Something we overlooked, Director. Since this awning will not be used in this way again it should be of little consequence but I thank you for telling me of it. By your leave?"

"Carry on."

Hashim took a little time to oversee their arrival and make sure that all was stowed and secured as it should be before joining Ursula, Tyra and Toshi at the gangway. She led them down onto the pontoon and then up the ramp to the rear of the boathouse and out through the double doors used for loading and unloading freight.

"This place has changed greatly since I was last here," Hashim ruminated. "This boathouse in particular was somewhat run-down, and the other two -" He halted suddenly. "Maker!"

Waiting beyond were two lines of transport. One line consisted of two-wheeled hand-carts and the other of light four-wheeled wagons, the latter each pulled by a frayen. They stood in a large, flat yard that had sturdy walls visible in the near distance. Ursula could see a large building to her left and, to her right, a smaller property that looked more domestic than commercial, separated from the yard by a picket fence and garden. To the far left were two guarded gates, open, beside which stood several carriages pulled by teams of frayen.

"This was not here before," spluttered Hashim. "What -"

A Faral NCO approached and saluted. "I ask your pardon, Masters and Mistresses. You wear strange uniforms and I know not who might be the senior."

Hashim looked at Ursula and received a nod. He turned to the NCO.

"Twick, I am Captain Hashim, presently master of the barge Downwind Dasher. If I may present Director Ursula of the Federation Navy. With her are her companion Armswoman Tyra and her escort Platen Hakatoshi. We have just arrived from Hamalbek, carrying some of those we rescued from the pirates."

The Faral bowed deeply to Ursula. "Be very welcome in Bibek, Director. We have been awaiting your arrival. If I may ask whether your passengers are fit enough to walk very far."

Ursula replied, "Most are unable to walk at all, or walk any distance. I assume that is what these carts are for?"

"Indeed, Director. We are to convey your passengers, and yourselves if desired, to a hostel we have prepared for those who are not fit. If I may ask their numbers?"

She thought. "We have twelve, no thirteen, who cannot walk and also eight who should not walk any distance. Oh, and two healers from here who were also captives. They must be considered unfit and should probably accompany the others."

He bowed. "Thank you, Director. Will your party be joining them at the hostel?"

"I have not been informed where we should be lodged, but to begin with I should go with my patients and Tyra and Toshi will come with me." She gestured at the one person dressed in gray. "Although Captain Hashim was originally captured by the Yodans, he is from Bibek and may have other plans."

Hashim said, "Twick, I must needs stay for a while and make sure the barge is secure. We have crew whose needs must be seen to as well. Like the Director I do not know what has been planned for us." He had a thought. "Oh! The Director and her party have chests and dunnage bags aboard, they will require an extra one of your carts to carry them to the hostel."

The Faral bowed again. "I will see to it, Captain. By your leave, Director, Captain."

Any further exchange was halted by a loud pssssh from behind. The group all turned to discover, under a makeshift roof, a curious and complex device which issued steam from somewhere on top of a large iron cylinder.

"Our steam engine," the Faral said proudly. "Have you yet learned of such amazing devices?"

Three shook their heads while Ursula nodded. "I know of them but this is the first time I have seen one up close."

The man's enthusiasm showed but it warred with his duty. "Director, I must needs issue instructions to the men inside. Briefly, one device, as you can see, was made for each boathouse but we discovered that one could provide for all. We feed it wood and water and it makes steam we can use to haul boats in and out of the boathouses as well as to do any task required inside." His eyes went to the doorway and he asked again, "By your leave?"

"Of course," Ursula replied. The man saluted and hurried inside.

She turned to Hashim. "Twick? Platen? I must learn the Faral ranks properly. Do you know them all?"

"I knew most of them before I was captured, Director, but much may have changed since then." He gestured all around them with a spread hand. "None of this was here when I last attended Master Yussuf for the barge I was to sail on and I have no doubt the military has undergone changes as well."

"Of course. What about that man who has just left?"

"Oh, he was a Twick, Director. I believe, in the order of ranks, he might be what the Forgulanders call a non-commissioned officer, the higher of two such ranks." Hashim thought for a moment. "He might be the same as, perhaps, a Sarjant in Joth, for example. A Platen is, I believe, what is known as a Loytant or Tenant further downstream." He shook his head. "All these different ranks are so confusing! No wonder there is trouble among allies whenever we go up against those of Yod."

"It is a problem," she agreed, "and the Federation might be the way to smooth problems like that out, but it will take time, probably years, to change."

"As you say -"

Tyra interrupted, "Excuse me, Director. Who is that?"

That was a uniformed Faral who had apppeared from around the corner of the boathouse to Ursula's left and was now slowly jogging towards them. She had by now seen enough local uniforms that it was evident that he was one of the higher ranks, probably a Marshal or Under-Marshal. He reached the small group, stopped and inspected each of them carefully.

He noted the four bars on Hashim's shoulders and nodded. Toshi merited nothing more than a raised eyebrow before he switched his attention to Tyra. His glance took in her sword and her trousers, both unusual on women, before his eyes moved to Ursula's epaulets. He straightened and saluted her.

"Ma'am, His Grace requests that you remain here until he and his party join us from where they are attending Her Highness. He does not expect the delay to be more than perhaps a quarter of a bell."

"Thank you, Marshal," she replied, adding, "If the sun remains this hot then we might retreat to the middle boathouse for shade." All four were already wearing their hats. "Will this affect my patients? I would not want them to spend time out here in the sun if it can be avoided."

The man nodded. "His Grace expects your patients and the less able to be transported to their assigned hostel as soon as they are loaded, Ma'am. The carters know where to go." His expression became uncertain. "Was it your intention to join them, Ma'am? I can understand if it was."

"That was what I had thought, yes. Does His Grace have other ideas?"

"Ma'am, His Grace expects that he would offer greetings in his own residence to Her Highness and all her crew, which would certainly include yourself and your staff. I do not believe he had considered your wounded and infirm, though."

"I see. Do you know if our hostel is close to His Grace's residence?"

The Marshal shrugged. "A short walk, that is all, Ma'am. If I may ask, are there any of your patients who would require your immediate attention?"

"No, none. We have two Faral healers with us who were also captives. While they are not properly fit they should attend the patients while we are elsewhere."

He nodded. "Done, Ma'am. If I may go and inform His Grace of the arrangements."

"By all means, Marshal."

The Marshal walked off towards the end of the boathouses and Ursula turned to her companions.

"Let us go over to the boathouse. The sun has moved around enough that we can stand in the shadow and still see everything. You can also take a closer look at that steam engine if you want."

"By your leave, Director," Hashim said, "What I told the Twick is true enough, I should go within and make sure all is as it should be." He looked at Ursula. "I know my rank was only supposed to be for the duration of the voyage but I have not yet been formally relieved of command."

Ursula considered. "I am sure that was not the First Director's intention, Hashim, but if you feel you have to go and supervise then do so. No doubt somebody will come and bring you outside when the Margrave arrives."

He gave a brief bow. "Thank you, Director."

The group moved back out of the hot sun, Hashim angling towards the freight doors. The man standing there called to the engine operators and one pushed a lever forward, causing the device to make noises and wheels begin to turn. Ursula saw that a crude windlass had been constructed from two small cartwheels fixed a foot apart on the main shaft, kept apart by spacers fixed to the spokes. Around this another operator was feeding a cable which came from inside through a hole in the wall.

A complicated series of 'up' and 'down' operations followed which culminated with one of the injured men being carried out on a stretcher, accompanied by Netheran. While the engine began the series of actions which would bring the next man out, Ursula walked across to the Faral medic.

"Director."

"Netheran. You understand what is going to happen?"

"Aye, Director. We are all being taken to the Beresgar Hostel, which is just the other side of the hill there. It is close to the Fortress and we expect His Grace to visit us there once we are settled. I am to go with the first man to ensure that all is ready while Sarrik remains to attend those who are still aboard. If I may ask, I was informed that you would be joining us, is that still what is happening?"

"It is, but it seems that we'll be going to his residence first and joining you later. Carry on, I don't want any of you out in this sun for any longer than necessary."

Ursula watched Netheran being helped onto a two-wheeled cart and departing with the stretchered man following on a small four-wheeled cart, the latter being pulled by a frayen, before realizing what Netheran had meant by "that hill there". Facing her was a ridge which came down from an outcropping similar to that which carried Boldan's Rock, the major difference being that much of the visible ridge was covered with the city of Bibek. Some of the city was this side but evidently most was the far side, the slope which would be sheltered and also receive the most sunshine.

They had watched most of the patients and other passengers being unloaded and dispatched before Hashim joined them again, coincidentally with a crowd of people emerging from around the far boathouse and heading towards them. This looked like the Margrave and his escort so the four straightened themselves and made themselves tidy.

"Director," Simbran began, "my apologies for the delay, it was necessary for us to alter our arrangements for the female passengers carried by the other barge. I had not made it plain enough to my staff that they could not yet face such a multitude of men as stood on the pontoon before them. I trust that all has gone well here? All your injured, unwell and unfit disembarked?"

"Your Grace, the disembarking is almost but not yet complete." Ursula looked to her left, where a stretcher bearer could be seen waiting in the freight doorway, his progress blocked by the crowd. "Your entourage blocks their path, as it happens."

Simbran turned and looked to his right, sizing up the situation. He turned around to face all those who had followed him.

"Clear the way! The sick and injured take priority!"

Some of those with him did not seem to care and it was only with reluctance that the crowd gave way. Fortunately Eriana was in the crowd and issued instructions to her men - in Norse. Immediately they came forward and formed two lines enabling the stretcher parties to pass without hindrance. She then turned to Ursula.

"Ursula! If you and your party would come over here, we would not be blocking anybody's way."

"Done, First Director."

As Ursula, Hashim, Tyra and Toshi made their way between the lines of Norse two Farals emerged with another stretcher carrying Ketko. Behind them was Sarrik. Ignoring the crowd to his left, including Simbran, he stopped in front of Ursula and saluted.

"Director, that is the last of us. Are you joining us in our hostel?"

"I am, Sarrik, we'll see you there later. First, though, we have to go with His Grace there." She indicated with a hand.

Sarrik turned and started. "Your Grace! I did not see you there. If I may offer my apologies."

Simbran asked Ursula, "Director, was this man one of the captives?"

"He was, Your Grace, though he was not held for very long."

"Still, he must needs be accounted among the unfit and thus he is excused from normal custom. Sarrik, you may proceed. The Director will join you later."

"Y-Your Grace, thank you."

Sarrik walked off after the last stretcher just as Adin, Ormund and Karan appeared. Ursula beckoned them over to join her small group.

"I think you will be joining us at the Margrave's residence," she told them.

The crowd had by now formed a circle around the small group. Simbran looked around until he found the person he required.

"Yussuf! If you would join me." The Margrave turned to Ursula. "If I may introduce my Minister of Trade and Transport, Director, Minister Yussuf. Yussuf, this is the Healer and Surgeon I told you about, now a Director of the Federation Navy, Director Ursula."

Yussuf joined the Margrave and bowed to Ursula. "I am pleased to meet you at last, Director. I have heard much about you."

Ursula smiled. "Nothing bad, I hope!"

"Indeed not, Director." Yussuf's eyes found Hashim. "Captain, I should know you."

Hashim braced and saluted. "As you say, er, Minister. I am Hashim. I was second aboard En-dhow-ment when it was seized by those of Yod. I spent several months chained to a galley oar. Those of Forguland rescued me, but I could not find a way to return from there until Her Highness and her remarkable men appeared in their longship."

"As you say. You should know that En-dhow-ment returned to Bibek a short while ago, completely restored to fitness. I see you wear the uniform of the Federation Navy now. Is this to be a permanent move?"

"I regret that it will be, Minister. These people have need of my talent and experience. If we may speak later?"

"By all means, Hashim. I see we are interrupting His Grace."

Simbran then introduced a small number of other officials whom Ursula thought she ought to remember but probably would not. That situation would worsen, she knew, once they reached their destination. Finally his expression changed and he motioned to some men distant in the crowd.

"Your Highness, Director, Captain, before we depart I am told that we have an unpleasant duty to perform. Bring the prisoner!"

Two large Farals brought the unresisting crewman to stand in front of the Margrave.

"Captain, if you may announce the charge."

"Your Grace, earlier today this crewman attempted to lay hands upon a female member of my crew who was going about her duty. Both the Director and myself witnessed the entire incident. It is plain that his intentions were not of a practical nature but, as he considered, amorous. Despite the movement of the deck crewmember Tyra dealt with him with no injury to herself by throwing him overboard."

"Do you tell me?" Simbran did not have to look far to discover which was Tyra and his eyebrows rose. "You threw him? Ah, is this some of what I saw Princess Garia do in Palarand?"

Tyra curtseyed. "Your Grace, since I have not yet visited Palarand I could not say. I have been learning a little of the arts of unarmed combat from Her Highness's men and from Guardswomen Bennet and Semma."

He nodded. "Ah, good. Director, do you agree with the account given by Captain Hashim?"

"Entirely, Your Grace."

"Since it was a transgression carried out aboard a vessel sailing under Navy orders, it is for the Navy to decide his fate, I deem."

"First Director?"

Eriana looked surprised. "We have yet had no time to consider crimes and punishments, Your Grace. Hashim, what would the Master of a barge do for, perhaps, a fight between two crew members?"

Hashim considered briefly. "It depends, First Director. Maybe ten to twenty lashes if there was serious intent. But this assault is of a different kind, I believe."

"Aye, between a crewman and a crew woman," Eriana agreed. "Today's voyage lasted but a few bells, in future much longer journeys may have crews of both men and women, indeed, the Visund already sails with that custom. Very well. Ten lashes, I deem, and he shall never work on any vessel of river or sea again. Perhaps that will send a warning to others who might be tempted in the future." The man looked shocked and Eriana addressed him sternly. "You are getting off lightly, my man. Where I originally came from I would have simply run you through with my sword."

Simbran considered and then nodded. "Done, Eriana. You are aware that criminals in these lands are usually branded?" She nodded. "Then I will ask for a special brand to be made that will keep him from being crew ever again. He may travel as a passenger, the Sirrel twists and turns so much that ferry travel should not be denied him, but he shall never work on the water again."

"Done, Your Grace."

"Then we are finished here, are we not?" He raised his eyebrows but there were no comments, so he added, "Carriages await to take you all to the Fortress. If you would all follow me."

The carriages were lightweight and each pulled by four frayen. Ursula, Tyra, Toshi and Karan filled one, which set off as part of a convoy for the Margrave's residence.

Ursula asked Toshi, "Have you been here before?"

The Kittrin shook his head. "No, Director. As I traveled east I stayed on or near the Trade Road, which around here is on the Zebrin side of the river. Did you have any particular reason for asking?"

"Not especially, no. The customs and architecture of every country we have visited so far has varied, I wondered if your experience was the same."

He nodded thoughtfully. "It is as you say, Director. As I wandered across this great land I saw how everywhere was different but thought that was natural. Are you saying that it is not?"

"Having traveled widely myself I can tell you that what you have seen is mostly natural, Toshi. But all the countries in this part of the Sirrel valley, right down to the sea, once belonged to a great empire, so I was told. That is why most speak the same language, generally, and share many customs. But the countries themselves can be very different and the variations in architecture, clothing and even food can be a surprise sometimes."

"Ah. Thank you for the warning, Director." He looked out the window. "I notice that these buildings are not raised up in any way except to deal with the slope of the land. Do they not have the floods here, then?"

"We are on a hill, of course. I would guess that the river floods but it does not come up this high. Did you notice the two buildings in the compound with the boathouses? Both were built on fairly high mounds."

"I did, Director. Oh! I believe we have arrived."

The Fortress had been built about halfway up the ridge which divided the city of Bibek, giving its occupants a full view of both legs of the Sirrel, upstream and downstream, as well as a view of the lower part of the Faral valley. Their carriage turned through a guarded gateway into a fair-sized yard, the driver leading them out of the way so that others could follow. The yard was inside stone walls so that Ursula's view of the city and surrounding countryside was cut off.

Both doors were opened by armsmen and steps positioned so that those within could alight. Ursula led the way and the four found themselves in an ever-increasing crowd as the other carriages also emptied into the yard. There were far more people waiting here than there had been at the boatyard. To Ursula this indicated that the Margrave had no fear of trouble from his people and was probably well-liked.

"Where is my husband? Hashim, are you here?"

A voice came from the crowd and a middle-aged woman appeared, trailed by three children of various ages. She wove between the carriages, obviously looking for a husband who had been missing for some time, with her children gamely attempting to keep up.

"I am here, my dear." Hashim's voice grew clearer as he walked round the next carriage to join her.

She gasped and ran to him, hugging him firmly before stepping back to inspect him. The two children, a girl of about nine and a boy of maybe four or five, wrapped themselves around his legs while the oldest, a teenager, did not know what to do.

"Easy, easy now. I am home at last, my dear. Benor, Allia, Omar, have you been looking after your mother while I was away?"

Benor, the oldest, replied, "Father, you wear strange attire."

"Aye, son, and that will take some telling. For now I must needs attend His Grace and then we can all go home."

"We must all attend His Grace, husband," the wife corrected. "We were invited once it was known that you were on the strange ship that has just arrived."

"But I was not, my dear. I actually had command of a barge which has brought many of those captured by the pirates, unfortunates who have suffered injury or disease during their captivity." He braced, a difficult thing to do with children wrapped around his legs. He tried to speak formally. "By your leave, Mistress Aryam, I am now Captain Hashim of the Federation Navy and my future is entirely different than I believed it to be some months ago."

He noticed Ursula's group and turned. "My dear, if I may introduce Director Ursula of the Federation Navy. She and her folk were with us on the barge Downwind Dasher."

"A woman!" Aryam was flustered. "I beg your pardon, er, Director? I am not accustomed to seeing any woman in such an exalted position. But what..? And that young girl carries a sword! Can this be real?"

Ursula replied, "It is real enough, Mistress... Aryam, was it? Tyra is my companion, assistant and trainee armswoman. There are other women among the ranks of the Navy, indeed, the head of the Navy, our First Director, is a woman. I have no doubt you will meet her soon enough."

"Well! I never imagined such a thing!" Her relief at having her husband back turned into a frown. "This Navy, will it be in Bibek, do you know? I would like to spend some time with my husband before he ventures forth once more."

"There remains much to be decided, Mistress, including where our staff will go. Some people will be based here, yes, but a local installation will be built at Hamalbek once the waters subside. That is where most will be based this side of Yod. The headquarters of the Navy will be a long way downstream, so I am told."

From the other side of the yard a bugle sounded.

"Come on, let us go and see what is going to happen."

The crowd gathered around a small stage on the farther side of the yard. Standing on it were Simbran and Eriana. The Margrave held up his hands and all fell silent.

"Friends, fellow countrymen of Faral. If I may welcome our esteemed visitors from far away downstream, not forgetting to add those who have recently suffered under the yoke of the pirates. Beside me is the leader of our visitors and the one who led the attack on the nest of pirates, if I may present Her Highness Princess Eriana of Palarand.

"I have no doubt that all those who have just arrived desire rest and refreshment, so I will keep my remarks short. To those who were once captives of the pirates, I will remind them that the promises made by me at Hamalbek will be kept, no man among you will fear for their safety or freedom while they are yet on the soil of Faral.

"To those who have family here in Faral, we will endeavor to reunite you with that family, should you so desire. To those who would prefer to return to their homelands, we will offer you assistance returning there at a reasonable cost. To those who may have a price on their heads in other lands, Faral offers you the chance to begin anew without stain on your characters - so long as you respect the laws of Faral, of course.

"If any of you desire to learn more about the Federation Navy, and perhaps even seek employment there, you may apply to Her Highness or any of her officers that you may see in Bibek in the next few days," he smiled, "after you have permitted them some well-earned rest, I deem!

"Know now that Her Highness and her ship the Visund will remain in Bibek for some seven to ten days before they must needs depart downstream once more. They desire to reach Palarand before the Rains descend upon us, but their voyage upstream was beset by difficulty and adventure so their time here is less than either of us would wish. I have offered them sanctuary until after the Rains cease but it seems they desire to return to their homes, which is of course only natural.

"This evening there will be a welcoming banquet, as is customary, but space is limited in this old stone pile and I regret that it will not be possible for all of you to attend. Do not consider yourselves slighted if there is no room for you. I will doubtless meet others of you in the days to come.

"And that ends my welcome and announcement, friends. By your leave, Eriana, her crew and I desire to get inside out of this oppressive sun."

* * *

The door to the visitor's suite opened and six gowned women entered.

"That was more than I expected," Eriana remarked, "enough to feed an entire army, I deem!"

"You Norse are known to have large appetites, Highness," Ursula responded as the six found seats. "You have eaten with Simbran before, I believe, down in Palarand. He must have known what foods you and your men would prefer."

"As you say, Ursula! We are fond of meat, it is true, and there was plenty on the table tonight. But other appetites were not ignored, were they? Nethra, was all to your liking?"

"It was, Highness. I have never seen so much food! But then I have never eaten with a reigning Margrave before. Are such tables as I have seen tonight customary among those of the highest rank?"

Eriana grinned at Nethra. "What, are you getting a taste for noble living? I can tell you that the quality of the foods we were served is customary, it is true, but not the quantity we were served this evening. As Ursula said, Simbran knew who was coming and catered appropriately."

"Ah. I noticed Lars ate as though he had not had a meal for a week though," she blushed, "he has a big frame. Is this something I must take note of for the future?"

Eriana thought before replying. "It is to do with our upbringing, I deem. Einnland can be a hard land and at times the food, even for those who live in the King's Hall, can be difficult to obtain. Then must our fishing boats set forth into the teeth of the winter storms to provide for the people. Hence, as you saw, we often take advantage when the times of plenty come once more."

Nethra nodded. "Ah, I see. I was concerned about the coin I might require just to feed him in future!"

The Princess chuckled. "Have no fear, Nethra. The salary which Lars will receive will be more than adequate for his needs and yours. I will add that, once he is established, you are more likely to be running a household than doing most of the work yourself. Are you content with your lot?"

"I am, Highness, I-"

An internal door opened and Matta and Vellana appeared. They curtseyed to Eriana.

"If I may offer apologies, Highness. We had fallen asleep waiting for you and you have returned quietly."

Eriana waved a dismissive hand. "Do not concern yourselves, girls. I am not like other nobles who expect their staff to be waiting on them the moment they appear. We have all had a long day, it is sufficient. Have you both eaten?"

"Aye, Highness, the trays provided were well enjoyed by both of us."

"Good! Already your bodies have filled out from what we found at Bakhrad, soon you will be back to full health and can begin to enjoy your days as others do."

"As you say, Highness."

Eriana yawned. "And now, I deem, it is time for me to retire. I have warned the kitchens that breakfast may be late tomorrow morning so you may all enjoy a lie-in if you so desire. No one will disturb you."

The others took that as a signal to rise and retire to their own quarters.

"Not you, Ursula. I desire a word before we retire to our rest."

"As you wish, Highness."

Eriana turned to the two young Yodans. "I will not be needing your services tonight, girls. Go and sleep, I am sure you need it."

They both curtseyed and retired to their own chamber.

"Shall you stay with me tonight, Ursula?" Eriana asked quietly. "The last few days have been hard and we have slept separately for most of them."

"In truth, Eriana, I have been feeling the need myself," Ursula replied. "But I am tired."

Eriana gave Ursula a speculative look. "But there is always the morning to come."

"And a shared bath afterwards? Done."