Burning Ember: Book 1

By Hollow

Set in a distant future, where the world is a vast expanse of water and scattered islands echo the golden age of piracy. Kasai, a 17-year-old, is forced from his village after a devastating storm. Alongside a group of pyrates with an unknown connection to his mother, his quest to find his missing father thrusts him into the sights of a formidabl

• Language: English
• Publisher: Hollow Books
• Release date: Jun 13, 2024
• ISBN: 9798990203013

Book preview

Prologue

A flash of lightning illuminated the dark bedroom, followed by a quiet clash of thunder. Two people were visible in the white light for a moment.

Are you sure you can’t stay? The woman asked, her voice quivering.

"Yes. She’s already too close. Maybe a day’s journey away. I can’t…I just can’t risk her finding us…finding you." The man sighed wearily.

Rain pattered against the window. Trembling softly, the woman wrapped the blanket around herself.

I would let her find us if I believed we could face her now. The man let out a bitter snort. Or at least me.

What about Doux and Kassi? she whispered. Outside, rain lashed through the air and trees bent in the wind.

The man hissed softly. I…I can’t…if she finds them…but I refuse to take them from you. A dim flash of lightning lit his face; regret, pain, sorrow etched into the lines.

"And you? You can separate them from you?" Her voice cracked, and a sob choked out.

The man growled softly, I don’t want to leave, but I’m not risking their lives against her. I don’t have a choice, Kira!

A lull fell through the room for a long moment.

The bed creaked, breaking the long quiet. Kira sighed. So, you won’t be coming back? Another flash of lightning illuminated the tears on her face. Thunder rolled, and the rain faded.

No, not until it’s safe. Maybe in a few years. Weariness and regret drenched his voice.

Kira waited a few moments, then asked, what will I tell them?

"I’m not sure. I don’t know what we even could tell them. I wish I could stay and help…but I must leave before it gets light out." He spoke.

Alright. Well, at least stay a bit longer…as long as you can. Reluctance tainted her voice.

His voice lowered. Of course. And never forget how much I love you, even if I’m not here.

A flash of lightning lit their expressions and cast jagged shadows on the wall before silence descended.

Hidden in the doorway, invisible to them, a small pair of eyes flashed.

Part I

Kindling

Chapter 1

Metal clinked against metal as the coins fell into the outstretched palm. Thanks, will you be getting a shipment in next week again? A young man spoke, his voice enthusiastic.

The shopkeeper shrugged. We should. The courier left yesterday for Nimbus, so he should be back in a couple of days with an answer. ‘Course, if your brother wants to try something new, he could try planting the mangrange seeds and grow them himself! As much as you buy them, it would save you money, Kasai!

Kasai grinned. Yea, but then who else would buy them from you? His waist-length black hair was tied back and his dark green eyes gleamed at the tease.

The shopkeeper's hearty laugh made nearby people look up and smile. Everyone else, that’s who! Now get going. Naomi and Doux are waiting.

Kasai grabbed his bag, now bulging with a variety of fruits, veggies, and a few wrapped fish, and turned towards a tall, solidly built man and a slim younger girl leaning against a wall nearby.

Kasai set down the bag in front of them. Please tell me this is everything. A fruity aroma wafted out from the bag, mixed with the smell of freshly caught fish. It contrasted with the aroma of nearby flowers, but Kasai liked the mix. The salty tang of the sea was faint here, brought by a thin breeze.

The girl giggled as she looked inside the bag, then squealed with delight as she retrieved a small bag of purplish-blue berries. Biburry berries! She was wearing a white and brown shirt and matching short skirt, knee-high laced-up sandals, and her dark blond hair was hanging loose around her face. Her grey eyes were bright with excitement over her favorite food.

Doux shook his head. Naomi, you know if you eat even one of those, Mom will tan your hide. He had recently shorn his black hair to the scalp, showing off the long scar on his forehead and his light brown eyes. He had tucked his shirt in his pants for once, and like half the surrounding people, he was barefoot. The worn pants, holey and barely reaching below his knees, didn’t stand out here.

Naomi stuck out her tongue at him. No, she wouldn’t Doux. She’ll be too happy with all the mangranges Kasai got.

Yea, you’re probably right. I’m just glad it’s finally the right season for them. Maybe now someone– here he poked Kasai in the side, making the younger man flinch –will stop pestering Mom about them. He grinned at Kasai as he spoke, his tone light.

Kasai shook his head, grabbed the biburry berries and the rest of the food, and walked off, his brother and sister lightly bickering behind him.

The salty smell of fish slowly dissipated as they moved further away from the market stalls, only to be replaced by the green, woody smell of trees and bushes. The heady aroma from potted plants faded into the background before being replaced by subtler, gentler scents of wild-grown flowers in the forest.

Musty-smelling dust from the well-trodden road kicked up as they walked, settling on his dark blue pants and light tan shirt. Beyond the buildings, tall trees rose into the air, gently swaying to the breeze. Small red, white, pink, and yellow flowers dotted the edge of the trees and pathway, while little bugs flew between them. His sandals made a thuck sound as he walked.

Kasai did his best to ignore Naomi pestering Doux, but couldn’t resist a smile as a quiet ouch! signified someone got a light punch to the arm. Naomi suddenly laughed and pushed Doux into a bush, causing him to burst out and return the favor.

Kasai laughed but kept walking, not wanting to get caught up with them and drop the bag; woe be to them if any food was lost.

The houses and businesses disappeared as they reached the palla forest. The worn pebbled path beneath their feet weaved between the trees, their feet staying on the main path, though smaller, less noticeable paths snaked off in different directions occasionally.

Birds called and the breeze through the woods quickly drowned out the voices, footsteps, and village life behind them. A thin tendril of smoke rose above the trees.

An opening in the trees revealed their home's exterior: stone-encrusted stuca walls, thatched roof, and palla wood planks interlaced. Open windows, their leaf shades drawn up, welcomed the daylight. Though the roof sat somewhat crookedly, it remained intact.

A small garden was visible around the corner, and they could hear the chucks, small flightless birds that gave them feathers and eggs, as they scratched around the garden. Kasai slowed, however, sensing something off. He froze when he spotted an anomaly at edge of the clearing, along the path.

Fresh tracks, from possibly more than one person, led to the house. And they were recent.

Everything okay? Why did…you…… Doux’s voice faded as he looked where Kasai’s gaze was focused. That’s odd. Mom never has visitors.

Naomi frowned; her brows knitted together in concern. Maybe we should go in the back way? She nudged Kasai when he didn’t move his gaze from the tracks. Hey, this means nothing. It’s probably just someone from the village.

Kasai’s body was tensed to inaction, his mind in turmoil. Only three visitors had come to their home since Naomi was born. The villages doctor came twice. For Naomi’s birth and when Kasai got deathly ill.

Kasai flinched as he remembered that the third visitor was his first and only girlfriend. When she met his mother, she became strangely nervous and never came back. It had been four years, but seeing her around the village still hurt. But her footsteps were not this large, nor light enough.

These prints were unlike any other he had seen in the village. He spotted at least two sets, and maybe a third. Except for his mother, he didn't know anyone who could walk so lightly as to leave almost no trace.

Barely visible scuff marks crossed in the dirt, then vanished on the stone before the door.

His siblings knew he hoped their father would return. Whenever he noticed unfamiliar footprints, he couldn't help but get excited. The multiple prints made this time worse. He had been this way since he was little. Their father left when he was three years old. Neither he nor Doux, despite Doux being five then, could recall anything about him.

Kasai had one faint memory, but he refused to think about it.

Kasai, Doux, there you are. Their mother's voice pulled them back to the present. She stood in the doorway, a spoon in hand, and her apron on. Her black hair had been hastily pulled into a bun. The tension etched on her face was impossible to ignore. Stains marred the tan skirt she wore, and her blue shirt's sleeves were pushed up as if she had been busy. Naomi, I got a message from Rea. She wants you to stay the night there tonight, but she didn’t catch you before you left town.

Naomi frowned for a moment. Okay…did she say why? Rea was known for her speed; if she had wanted Naomi, she would’ve caught her easily.

No, just that she wanted to catch you before you reached the forest, but didn’t. Kasai, hand me the food and go back into town for some more fish please, Doux, go with him. Her words were rushed, anxious; the siblings exchanged uncertain glances.

Except for once, when Kasai was deathly sick, Kira had always been a rock in a storm; unbreakable, unmoving, steady. But this was completely new to them.

I’ll just take this to the fridge for you. I know you’ve probably got food started and want to keep an eye on it. Kasai dodged her outstretched hand as he walked past, not meeting her eyes.

Kira, everything - A large man, much bigger than Kasai or even Doux, suddenly came through the kitchen doorway as Kasai entered the house. His eyes resembled wet sand, his hair a dark muddy-brown, and his left hand briefly gleamed. But he shoved it in his pocket before Kasai could see why. His clothes were unusual; white breech pants, a light tan vest with a white undershirt that was open midway down his chest, and heavy-looking brown boots. Oh, sorry.

With a gravelly, deep voice, he wore a curious expression. He opened his mouth to say something when Kira interrupted him. Kasai noticed the telltale bulge of a hidden pistol under his vest.

Kasai just set the bag down there. We have…guests, and I need you to grab something else to cook in town quickly. Kira set her arm on Kasai’s shoulder and gently but firmly turned him around and shoved him lightly towards the door. Please. Kasai felt uneasy as her grip tightened.

Kasai opened his mouth to speak, but caught Doux’s face in time. Uh, sure, Mom, he mumbled, and quickly left. Doux and Naomi followed at his heels. They wore different faces, but the confusion in their eyes was identical. Doux was angry, his hands flexing into fists as if he was itching to go back, while Naomi’s face was blank.

* * *

She’s hiding something. That much was obvious. The three siblings were sitting in a shaded spot down by the docks, freshly purchased fish soaking in the water in a net at Doux’s feet. Doux’s voice was strangely controlled, even and smooth.

The wind pushed the salty breeze out to sea as they talked, whipping the waves into little white caps. Sea birds flew about around the docks, adding their cries to the wind.

Kasai grunted and tossed a flat stone out onto the waves; it skipped three times before sinking. Who was that man? And the others with him? His voice was clipped. Nothing about the men was familiar.

Others? What are you talking about? Naomi paused her sand drawing and looked up in confusion.

I saw two sets of feet, maybe three, in the dirt before we reached the house. And did you notice the gutter? It was fixed, but the work was shoddy and crude. Devv wouldn’t have done so bad, and Mom didn’t ask me or Doux to fix it, so that means the visitors did. Kasai grunted, flinging another stone across the waves.

Doux narrowed his eyes, staring out over the sea. Dude, it’s not Dad. The words grated against Kasai’s ears.

The two others stared at him with blank expressions. Naomi shrugged after a moment. Who cares if it is? He’s never visited, he’s never sent a letter, never bothered to know anything about us. She stood up suddenly, brushing the sand from her skirt. If it’s him back there, I don’t want to know. I’m heading to Rea’s; I’ll be home tomorrow.

Before either of them could react, she walked off. Kasai felt a stab of irritation. She always did this, brushed it off like it was nothing.

Doux looked at Kasai. I know you still hope he’ll come back, but I know he isn’t, okay? He stood up and grabbed the fish. Just…stay out as long as you need to. I’m taking this back home. Kasai heard an edge to his voice and ignored the softening effect of pity in his eyes.

Kasai watched as his brother walked away, the bag of fish swinging at his side. When Doux was out of sight, Kasai turned to the waves and sighed, speaking aloud although he was alone. Why do they have to act like it’s so wrong for me to want him to come home? Maybe I shouldn’t care, like Naomi, or just give up, like Doux.

In the distance, a ship floated towards the island, its shimmering sails flashing in the sunlight even at a distance.

Kasai sighed and leaned back. I guess it doesn’t matter, but I still wish Mom would stop getting so upset when I ask about him. I’m not trying to be mean or anything, but I just want to know what he was like. That would be better than nothing.

The breeze fluttered briefly, then died down. The air felt oppressive in the stillness.

He sat there quietly for a while, watching the ship in the distance. It was just sitting there now, which was odd, but he was drawn to the shimmering from its sails. Clouds were moving above the ship; there must be an offshore wind starting.

A shifting noise in the sand caught his attention, and he turned to see an older man close by. Excuse me, I’m looking for Kira. Would you happen to know anyone with that name? She’s a black-haired woman, eyes a grey color, probably with a couple of older kids.

The man was short and stocky, his grey hair hanging to his knees and twisted into a thick braid. A pair of small rose-tinted specs sat on the end of his somewhat long nose. He was wearing a baggy pair of black breeches and an open, long white coat that reached midway to his knees. A chain led from a pocket in his coat. He had no shirt, yet appeared unfazed.

Kasai briefly froze, then stood. Um, yea. Do you need her for something? I know where she lives. Something kept him from saying she was his mom, though he wasn’t sure why.

The man briefly narrowed his piercing blue eyes, then quickly relaxed. I have a letter for her here. It’s from…a friend of hers who told me she would be here. He pulled out a crisp, white, folded piece of parchment. Elegant handwriting, much nicer than anything Kasai had seen before, looped on the top in his mother’s name.

Taking the letter, Kasai glanced at the man. I’ll take it to her now. If it’s from a friend, she might be mad if I wait to get this to her. He took in the man’s posture; assured, confident, a strength that seemed at odds with his age.

His eyes were bright and clear, studying Kasai with a strange intensity. Kasai stopped staring, not wanting to be rude, and swatted at the insects buzzing around him.

The man nodded. It would be best; a storm is on the way. Giving a nod to Kasai, the man swiftly broke into a lope towards the docked ships nearby.

Kasai watched him for a few moments, surprised at his speed, then turned towards the forest. Even if he didn’t go home, the heat was building up, and he needed a cooler spot. A shudder went through his body; something felt off.

* * *

Kasai, herd the chucks inside and get washed up. This storm’s going to be big. Kira met him as he reached home. She showed no sign of the strain she was under earlier, except for a slight tightness in her lips. She had a basket of freshly cleaned laundry, some of it half-folded, tucked under her right arm. Anything outside that could be tossed around was already put up or lashed down.

The men had left, and the only evidence they had been there was the footprints, now with more heading away from the house.

The leaves of the surrounding palla trees were already waving around somewhat erratically, and there was a banging sound from a loose tile or shingle against the house.

Kasai nodded and grabbed a wide broom from inside the doorway, using it to herd each chuck into their coop. The little birds gave out squeaks and chirps of indignation as he did, but he ignored that and quickly latched them inside. It was rare a storm did much damage this far inland, but he didn’t want to take any chances.

Doux came running out, startling him. Kasai called out, but Doux tossed the answer over his shoulder as he ran off. Going into town, Feli lives by the harbor and might need help.

Kasai shrugged and headed inside. Feli, Doux’s partner, probably needed the help, and it was more likely the town would need another set of hands with the cleanup afterward while their home would be fine.

Naomi, did you get the cask in the shed? Kira was running around the kitchen, bolting everything in the cabinets. Kasai was surprised to see Naomi home, but maybe she thought she was needed here more than with her friends.

It’s in the kitchen in the corner by the door. Naomi waved her hand towards the waist-high cask; it was open but empty.

Kasai washed up in the small bathroom sink, then plugged the hole, bolted the toilet shut, and latched the windows.

Kira walked past, nodding at his work. Good. I’m going to assume Doux is in town again, she paused and looked at Kasai, who nodded, then continued, so all that’s left is to head to bed. Do you want to bed down in my room tonight? Naomi says she’ll be in whatever room you’re in, but I’ll leave that up to you.

Kasai shook his head. No, we’ll be okay in my room tonight. I still need to put away the books in case the latches blow open again. It had taken forever to clean up the mess during the last time that had happened, and he had lost several books.

Naomi appeared in the hallway and headed for his room. A blanket, pillow, and a purple and blue chuck plushie in her arms. Kasai grabbed an extra blanket from the hall closet and followed her.

After a few punches, jibes, and a threat to the plushie, Kasai settled into the bed while Naomi curled up under the blankets on the floor. Kasai turned down the pla-lamp at his bedside, and they both tried to sleep as the wind howled outside. Despite their distance to the shore, the smell of wild saltwater was filling the room and Kasai drifted off uneasily.

* * *

Wake up! Wake UP! A strong shove woke Kasai, his shoulder crashing into the ground. Kasai, GET UP! Naomi’s voice was loud, but there was a louder sound that rose above everything else.

There was an acrid smell of burning paper, and Kasai was dimly aware of the sound of the terrified chucks trapped in their enclosure.

Cracking, shattering, roaring! Kasai quickly woke up, not responding to the fire outside his window, the surrounding heat, or the smoke under his door. All he could focus on was the terrible crying and screaming that suddenly came from outside the door.

Momma! Naomi cried as she burst through the door, completely ignoring Kasai’s slack-jawed face.

He shook his head and ran after her, coughing and looking down the hallway toward their mother’s room. Above his head, thick, black smoke filled the hallway, growing denser by the moment.

Naomi was beating on the door, but sank to the floor as Kasai made his way down the hall. He shook her shoulder briefly then shoved her towards the kitchen, and fresher air, coughing between his words, get out, go to town. Find Doux! The thick smell, like sulfur and ash, did little to help the already thick air, and it was getting worse.

She hurried towards breathable air, not waiting for Kasai. He didn’t blame her, but he felt a tad hurt. He might need help. But at least she was safe, or at least safer, now.

Kasai! His mother’s voice, hoarse and weak sounding, came from behind the door.

I’m coming! He beat heavily on the door, but he wasn't Doux. He spent his days drawing, daydreaming, and studying the mechanics of the technology used in town.

The door refused to budge, so Kasai started kicking it at the handle; after a few kicks, it burst open in a shower of wood. Kasai felt a momentary prick but ignored it.

The room was destroyed. Fire licked along fallen palla logs. Smoke obscured Kasai’s view heavily, and there was a crashing sound as more logs fell.

Kassi… Kira’s voice came weakly from somewhere to his left, where the worst of the damage was. Despite the lack of a roof and openings in the walls, the smell of sulphur was thick here. The heat didn’t seem to bother Kira, and Kasai hardly felt the flames licking the air near him.

Mom! Kasai ran over and began trying to shift the debris that had fallen on her, covering most of her body. Blood trickled from a gash on her forehead.

She moved weakly; her gaze disorientated. She kept blinking, as if trying to focus on him, and coughed.

Mom, I can’t– Kasai stopped as there was a terrible crack. He was forced back at a sudden gush of heat, a massive snap, and a palla log collapsed on top of them.

Kasai instinctively leaped back, but it didn’t land on him. With a soft cry echoing in his ears, he watched it land just before him. He knew it was too late and fled the house.

* * *

The town was worse, with debris and devastation on a larger scale. Wails, cries, screams, and crackling flames deafened him. Rainless storm clouds whirled overhead, wind whipping every which way.

The flames licked along every surface; the wind pushing the flames to devour every untouched surface. Kasai saw several trees in town fall with echoing cracks, thin branches whipping around like ropes.

Kasai stumbled through the first few streets, barely seeing where he was going through the shifting shadows and falling ash. His eyes stung from the soot, and it made him cough and coated his skin. He avoided looking at the burning fruit stall or the fishmonger's place. He just made sure he kept moving. Glancing around, he tried to spot Naomi as he moved.

People were running around. Some had buckets or pails of water, some were carrying others that were too injured to do something themselves, and most of the people were directing others around pieces of debris to the safe space along the shore where there was nothing but a few tufts of grass to burn.

Most moved like Kasai; stumbling, their eyes blank or staring ahead, barely aware of anything beyond a few feet in front of them.

But strangers were helping; Kasai noted a short and somewhat stocky man lifting a ruined beam to let people out of a house, a tall and thin man carrying three young kids with smoke-stained faces, and then he spotted the stocky older man from earlier applying a compress to the woman who ran the fish stall nearby.

Kasai ran over and called out. Hey, what happened? What’s going on?

The man spoke without looking up. Freak storm, that’s what happened. Falling trees, fires, and destruction all over town. I’m a doctor, so I’m helping injured people escape. If you can, put the fires out, escort others to the docks, or head for the docks with everyone else. He glanced up for a moment, then finished with the bandage he had wrapped around the woman’s head. Here, take Gladai to the docks. She won’t make it by herself and get your head checked out while you’re there.

Kasai nodded and helped Gladai stagger to her feet; she was badly off balance and leaned heavily on him. He briefly worried about getting her through the streets.

The man stopped him before they set off. Kasai, where is Kira? His eyes flickered around, glasses glinting in the firelight.

Kasai didn’t answer, just shook his head, and started guiding Gladai away carefully. He didn’t even stop to wonder how the man knew his name.

* * *

Kasai, over here! Doux came running up to the beach, the village doctor at his heels. Gladai, your kids are waiting for you on the ship already. Away from the worst of the fires, the air was cleaner.

The breeze had picked up, bringing a tang of salt with it. The birds were gone, but echoing cries from the village could still be heard.

Ship? Kasai asked, confused. Were people leaving in the small fishing ships in a storm?

The doctor nodded. We have several visitors right now, including a pyrate crew. Most of the people from town are here already and boarding their ships. Except for the pyrates, who need to leave for elsewhere immediately, the others have offered to take everyone around the island to Nimbus. He took Gladai’s hand and began guiding her over the shifting sand, tossing the last words over his shoulder. The only people missing are those from the far side of town now. Grab your family and get aboard as soon as you can!

Doux looked at Kasai sharply. Where’s mom, and Naomi? His eyes were hard, his body tensed to move.

Mom… Kasai’s voice failed, and he collapsed onto the sand, tears slowly leaving white streaks in the ash on his face.

Doux closed his eyes for what seemed like forever, then looked towards town. Okay. Well, we still need Naomi. He sounded rough, but his voice stayed steady.

Kasai, Doux, is everything okay? They looked up to see a very tall man running towards them. His dark brown hair was tied in a long ponytail, white-blond streaks barely visible. Yellow-green eyes flashed in the firelight, and his skin, lightly tanned, had ash spotted along his arms and shoulders. But everything about the man screamed dangerous.

The man was dressed like a typical pirate, with dark breeches, heavy boots, and a white shirt made of thatched fabric. However, what caught Kasai's attention was the bulky scabbard hanging from his waist.

It was glowing in a few spots and wider than expected. Kasai tore his gaze away from it and watched the stranger.

Um, we can’t find our sister, Doux told him. The breeze died down, but the smoke began drifting towards the shore now. Kasai coughed as some ash blew in his face.

The man nodded. We can find her. He looked over his shoulder. North, we need help over here! His voice was rough and scratched, like someone with a smoke-damaged throat.

Kasai watched as a tall man, the one he noticed in town carrying three kids, come running over. His stride was effortless, and the look on his face could only be described as thundering. Sonus, there you are. We know where–

Sonus cut him off. These two can’t find their sister. Do you think you can find her?

North nodded. Sure. Where did you last see her? His eyes gleamed as if he were enjoying running around in the middle of the destruction.

Heading out of the forest. She looks a little like me, just a tad shorter and with dark blonde hair. Kasai answered. North nodded and ran off, but Kasai kept his eyes on Sonus. There was something odd about the man. How do you know us? He gave another cough, ignoring the little needle-pricks of heat along the back of his neck.

Sonus shrugged. Brinar described you to me after he met you earlier, and I guessed this was your brother, Doux. He…knew your mother. He didn’t meet their eyes though and just looked towards town. Speaking of her, where is she?

Kasai blinked but didn’t answer; Doux answered for him. Still back at the house, trapped. Doux laid a hand on Kasai’s shoulder.

Sonus’ eyes flashed and there was a sudden crack of lightning in the sky. When Sonus spoke next, his voice was hard. You two, head for the ships. Find Brinar, you’ll recognize him by his braid and glasses, he’ll check out your head, Kasai, and direct you two to a ship to escape on. But I promise you, we’ll find your sister and make sure she’s with you before you leave.

As he headed for the forest, Kasai watched him, but spoke to Doux. Um, is it just me or is something weird going on? He tried to ignore the strange feeling he had.

Doux shrugged and helped him up. He wiped his arm over his face, smearing the ash across his nose. "Something probably is, but that storm has yet to fully hit, so we need to get out of here. Let’s do what he suggested and get to the boats. We’ll deal with whatever that is later."

Kasai nodded. Hey, is Feli okay? He remembered that Doux had stayed in town to help his partner if needed.

Doux set his jaw and spoke in a gravelly voice. No. I mean, they’re alive, but they broke up with me tonight. Said that they needed someone who could spend more time with them. I just...I wanted some time to think before I came back home first and told you all. Then the storm hit and I couldn’t get back.

Kasai hugged him as they walked. That’s totally not fair. I’m sorry. It really wasn’t; Doux spent much of his time at the docks helping fisherman bring their fish to market or supplies onto boats. It wasn’t like he did nothing.

Doux nodded and hugged him back, but stayed quiet.

They quickly reached the docks, where everyone else was boarding one of the five ships in the harbor. After asking around, the brothers knew that this was the last ship, that they wouldn’t be able to take everyone, and that no one had seen their sister.

Kasai noticed the doctor from before, who Sonus had said was called Brinar, and together they walked over to him. The ash wasn’t as thick here, but the sand was speckled with black.

Have you two seen Sonus? A little taller than you, blue sword sheath, hair tied back? Brinar asked them.

Kasai nodded. He sent someone called North to find our sister, then headed into the forest.

Brinar nodded, his glasses flashing.

A sudden crack of thunder made the younger men jump, and all three looked up in time to see jagged bolts of lightning flashing and striking down over the forest. Kasai wasn’t sure, but he thought he heard a wail rise above the thunder. It sounded human.

Rain pounded down, drenching all three men, the drops falling hard enough to sting their skin. Brinar grabbed them both by the arm suddenly and began pulling them with surprising strength towards a ship that was set a little apart from the others. Sonus left instructions for you.

Doux yanked his arm free and stopped, sending up a small spray of slightly blackened sand. He nearly shouted, we are to board the ships with everyone else after our sister shows up.

Brinar turned back, letting go of Kasai; the younger man sank to his knees. Not exactly. Sonus left instructions that when you and your sister and mother showed up that you four were to board our small cuddy boat, sail to a certain spot, and wait for us to finish up here. It’s a little small for four, but the cuddy has enough food in it for five days and there’s four water barrels lashed to it.

We can’t sail that! Kasai growled. We don’t have any experience in sailing!

"You weren’t meant to, but your mother would be able to. Brinar shot back, effectively shutting Kasai up for a minute. There’s a waterproof map, sextant, compass, and a short-range en-con. It has a sail that can be unfurled easily but also an emergency engine, but not a lot of en-fuel, so don’t use it unless you need to."

"You expect us to board this, sail to who-knows-where, and just wait?! Doux took a threatening step towards the older man, his eyes blazing. No. None of this is safe, none of this makes sense!"

Brinar held his hands up, but stared Doux in the face. I promise, we will explain everything later, but right now you need to stay safe, okay? That’s the most important thing.

Kasai looked at the little boat floating next to the much larger ship; it was 20 feet long, maybe 25, with a single mast, a rudder, two brackets where oars could sit for rowing, and a tiny cabin top. Behind the cabin, a ship's wheel was attached, and the cabin itself had a small door, appearing to be sunk into the boat a few inches, possibly with a few steps leading down to it. Four barrels, each with a handled wooden top, were bolted to the sides of the rocking boat. The waves were getting harsh.

Big enough for them to float on for a few days, maybe a week, but only one of them would fit in the cuddy at a time. Kasai didn’t want to think of why they would need to though.

Why should we listen to you? Doux’s voice shook, his fist clenched and trembling.

Because not only will the other ships not let four people onto their ships at this point, your mother knows who we are. Brinar’s voice turned brittle and harsh.

Kasai opened his mouth to ask a question, a burning one that so desperately wanted to be asked, but he couldn’t speak. After a tense moment, he let the matter drop. So, what do we do? He could feel the rain dripping down his forehead, but it felt warm. He could taste salt.

Brinar glanced at his forehead. First, I’m taking care of that wound.

Kasai touched his forehead, surprised when he saw blood on his hand. The wound didn’t hurt, but then again, he was surprised he could feel anything. Um, sure. I don’t know how I got hurt though, I don’t really remember much…after……

Brinar led him over to a shelter that had been erected sometime earlier; a thin canvas that was only meant to protect from the sun, it just barely stopped the rain from pelting them.

Brinar made Kasai sit, and that’s when Kasai noticed the array of first aid tools that doctors and healers carried; simple bandages and wraps, a small rechargeable en-light, peroxi, coth balls, and a small green bundle of dried herbs. A small assortment of tools, not from the kit, sat to the side.

Brinar was quick in his examination. He checked Kasai’s and asked brief questions, to which he got shorter answers. He applied a coth pad with peroxi to Kasai's hairline briefly before removing his hand.

Kasai flinched.

Brinar gave a sympathetic grunt. It’ll flake off on its own, so you don’t need to worry about changing it. It’s a minor spot. I would guess you got caught by a flying splinter or something. Head wounds bleed far more than other spots, but are usually much less severe. Just don’t go into the ocean for a day and you’ll be fine. And before you ask, saltwater burns like ice when it mixes with peroxi on the skin and might knock you out from the pain alone.

Kasai nodded as Brinar held a cup under the rain for a moment, then added some dried herbs and mashed it up. Despite everything going on, he was feeling a little fuzzy now that he was sitting down.

Brinar shoved the drink in his hands. Drink this, it’s for the shock. When Kasai hesitated, he sighed. It should be heated normally, but there’s no time, let alone dry enough, to start a fire now. And unfortunately, this needs actual fire, not an en-charged based heat. He spoke quickly, sounding impatient.

Kasai took a sip and made a face at the bitterness. How long do we need to wait here? He was feeling strangely detached after a few moments, and he realized that whatever he was drinking was helping shock.

Brinar, get the kids in the boat NOW! They turned to see Sonus and North racing from the forest towards them. Naomi wasn’t with them. Inwardly, Kasai was surprised, and suspicious, at their sudden change in urgency.

Brinar attempted to speak, but the wind shifted. Fires in town persisted through the rain, and cinders blew their direction. They all coughed for a moment as ash blew into their faces.

His eyes snapped toward the town, and in an instant, his hand shot out, grabbing Kasai and Doux with a firm, unexpected urgency. With a shift that had turned calm impatience into a storm of anger and worry, he forcefully propelled them toward the boat. Get out, get out now! Do not come back here!

Doux and Kasai stumbled but were too shocked to ask why the sudden change and ran towards the boat. As Doux climbed in, Kasai turned back to ask about Naomi when he caught sight of Sonus raising his sword into the air.

It was wider than his arm and laced through with black lines, while the hilt was glowing with intricate, faintly glowing blue lines. A faint fizzling sound caught his attention, followed by the largest crack he had ever heard.

With his hands covering his ears, he collapsed to the ground, temporarily blinded and deafened by the enormous lightning bolt that streaked through the sword. He thought he screamed, but couldn’t hear it.

Brinar was shouting something, but Kasai couldn’t hear him either. Doux helped him stumble over the side and he saw them exchange words briefly. Then Brinar was gone and Doux was wheeling the boat out to sea.

All Kasai could picture was the lightning, tinted blue from racing through the sword, arcing towards a figure coming from town.

Chapter 2

We’re lost, admit it. As the stars faded, Kasai's sunburned skin stung under the brighter light. His hair hung loose and had a greasy texture, while his clothes were dirty and stiff.

It had been six days since they had been forced to leave Cloud Village. But the island they were supposed to arrive at was nowhere in sight. Kasai had some understanding of islands, but was clueless when it came to navigation.

Doux shrugged and looked at the map. When that storm hit, we got blown off course, and neither one of us knows anything about long-distance sailing. Glancing at the compass and sky repeatedly, he frowned as the last star vanished.

Kasai suppressed a sigh and thought of the en-con. It had fallen overboard when they tried to use it. The waves kicked too high and the wind too strong, and it was ripped from their hands.

Finally, Doux made a strangled sigh and snapped the compass closed. Okay, fine, we’re lost.

Kasai glanced at Doux, then grabbed two cups that had been hooked to the side of one barrel. Handing Doux his cup, he opened the barrel. I’m glad they gave us five days of supplies for four people, or we would be in trouble. Bringing out a cup of water, he made a face when he inspected it. The water was slimy looking, as though algae had gotten inside. But maybe we should be careful of this water.

Doux investigated the barrel and stuck his hand in. Hold on, there’s something in here. In a sudden motion, he brought something out and flung it onto the deck. Well, there’s a quick breakfast! A silver and blue fish flopped, gasping for air, then lay still.

Wonder how it got in there? Kasai mused.

Doux shrugged and gazed in the general direction they were told to head. After that first night, he had revealed that Brinar had given him a set of coordinates. It was where they would meet with the pyrate crew, who were leaving as soon as they found Naomi. Probably got thrown in when the lid nearly got blown away during that storm.

A minor storm disrupted their course, striking after sunset on the first day. A water barrel and food box were blown away, along with an extra sail hidden under the wheel. Otherwise, they were fine.

However, six days have passed, and the weather remained too unclear for navigation. Doux had a rudimentary grasp of the fundamentals, but lacked practice. Their only opportunity to navigate came during empty bursts of clear sky at night, but those hadn’t lasted long.

Know what kind it is? Kasai watched the fish grow still, its scales dulling to a silvery grey.

Doux glanced at it, then grabbed the teleglass from its holder on the mast. It’s a blue scad. It’s an edible fish from the old days. I guess it’s unchanged and common now.

Kasai didn’t doubt him. Doux knew fish and had planned on becoming a fisherman once he got his own boat, but that was before...

See anything? Kasai asked, attempting to distract himself from the village for the time being. It was bad enough that the letter Brinar had given him was burning a hole in his pocket.

He hadn’t given it to Kira before that night and had forgotten it was in his pocket until they were already several miles out. Doux was unaware of it, and Kasai was unsure how to tell him. He was tempted to open it, but he wanted to wait until he was somewhere safer. He had never heard of his mother getting a letter before.

Doux suddenly stood up and rushed to the cuddy. Bringing out a small white piece of fabric, Kasai didn’t realize he had seen something until he raised the white flag and waved it purposely.

Kasai turned to see a ship, possibly a large one, in the distance. It was glowing a deep yellow along the waterline and large sails that were going slack. As Doux waved the flag, the ship turned.

* * *

Glad we saw you! That tiny ship would’ve gone unnoticed if you hadn’t waved that flag for us. A hand reached down and helped hoist Kasai onto the deck of a large brig. Kasai looked around as he reached the deck, Doux behind him.

Two masts towered above them, higher than expected, each with three larger square sails and a smaller triangular sail at the very top. An upper deck, the quarterdeck, rose at the back of the ship where they could see the coxswain at the wheel and a younger person standing behind them. A much smaller deck rose at the front of the ship, but it was big enough for just one person to stand.

Kasai and Doux, both growing up in a port village, knew the basics of ships, but there was much here that was unfamiliar.

The figurehead was a