I had sailed a few times. I was young, but a little educated and very eager.

I was looking to head closer to home on my next trip, but the only ship going out was the Emma. She was going out to restock a midsea port and return here. My pockets were empty and my belly empty. 

I almost didn't get picked up to go. But when the captain was talking the group assembled, I was quick to mention that I was an adept map reader as well as good to work in the lines. It wasn't until later that I found out the captain did his own map reading because he didn't want to spend coin on a navigator. Since I would do the work AND navigate, his penny pinching brain saw the benefit of my hiring. I was one of a crew totalling 8.

When we set sail it was a normal run. It took 5 days to drop the supplies off. The winds were in our favor. But on the second day of the return we were approached by a ship. When we came along side, they attacked directly, no demands. They fought like madmen, but we bested them. Our ship was lost in the shuffle. 

The captain and I reviewed their maps and supplies. The were short supplies to be sure. We were closer to wherevev they were going then home, so we plotted the corse hoping to be able to resupply there.

The story that follows is too wild to believe. I dare not write it down. But after everything was told. I was found by another ship passed out on the deck next to the captain that no longer lived. I look much older than my true age now. Much, much older. 

When I recovered at port I did tell my stories to the authorities. Too many authorities. Some believed nothing. Some seemed indifferent. One took my words with careful detail. 

This was my last journey by ship. I move inland to try to escape the memories and dreams that haunt me. I felt something stiring in me. My sanity waned. I hold on to this day because of one voice in the chorus that tells me to fight it and live. Survive. Carry on. And keep moving. 

So many dark dreams. And the one voice that keeps me grasping as my sanity. Hoping to