Mage Legend

Many generations of people who live in dense forests or rugged mountains often have a misconception that traveling on the vast ocean is monotonous and dull. As far as the eye can see, it's all blue seawater, with nothing much to note besides the sun rising and setting every day and the silent procession of the stars.

But only those who truly live at sea can tell you about the greatness of the ocean. Captain Jebor of the Conch is such a person. Even without the backdrop of the harbor and the contrast of the large ship, anyone who sees Jebor would say, "Look, that's a sailor!"

With sun-bronzed skin and the grooves left by the sea breeze on his face, along with eyes that are always squinting, Lynch didn't even need to shake his calloused hands, rough from pulling ropes, to feel assured about entrusting the responsibility of this voyage to him.

"Welcome aboard, gentlemen!" Jebor hid his chewing tobacco deep in his cheek and then said, "Quickly board the Conch because we are about to set sail. The sea breeze is just right for sailing now."

Macken, who had been walking at the front of the group, turned back at this moment to explain to the others, "Because among sailors there's a legend that women bring bad luck if they board a cargo ship. Even though no one believes this anymore, the captain's welcome speech won't mention ladies." The knight added, "Rest assured, he truly welcomes you in his heart."

"Of course." Lynch patted Soka's head, "We have a little fellow who brings good luck, how could we not be welcome?"

Although the Conch is a cargo ship, it seemed to have been well-maintained to welcome a few guests. The deck and cabins were scrubbed clean, and even the curtains used to block wind and rain were washed spotless. The sailors' clothes also appeared very new. They greeted the guests with enthusiastic glances; it seems the coins given to Bob were well spent, and as he said, they might receive "royal" treatment along the way.

"Please follow me, gentlemen, this way." Captain Jebor led everyone: "Our ship isn't as it appears; its interior is quite luxurious, and we've long prepared the best cabins for potential guests, ensuring that you will experience the sea's charm without the discomfort of turbulence."

"That's for the best." Lynch had already looked through the ship thoroughly. Apart from the special products from the Elf Kingdom piled in a corner of the cargo hold, which were illicit smuggled goods, the ship was in good shape. It's well maintained, and even if a storm could destroy it, it would have to be a very formidable natural disaster.

Before long, the skilled sailors had steered the ship northward. It glided slowly on the water at first, and when the harbor was far behind, all the sails were unfurled. The three white sails seemed to give the ship wings, allowing it to fly lightly across the sea surface.

Lynch carried all his important belongings with him, and the spatial bag solved his travel worries, so the mage was already standing at the bow, breathing in the incoming sea breeze. The last time he had such a pleasant trip was five years ago when he was traveling from Yim to the southern lord's territory to search for a magic item. Although the treasure hunt ended fruitlessly, that sea journey left a deep impression on him—along with a now non-existent scar.

"Young man, it's not always good to be in a strong wind like this." Captain Jebor, after arranging navigational matters, began inspecting the ship. He stood behind Lynch and said, "These salty winds will gradually corrode your skin, making it rough and cracked."

"That's nothing, Captain." Lynch didn't turn back; he leaned out over the side of the ship, admiring the scene of the bow cutting through the white waves. "I'll take good care of myself."

"Then I'm relieved," Jebor smoothed non-existent creases on his clothes and said, "However, if you allow, I still prefer to wear the original outfit. Although Barrel Bob wanted us to dress neatly, I believe that old attire is my lucky charm, making the voyage more comfortable."

Lynch turned around, looked at the captain, and then said, "Then please feel free, Captain. When it comes to sailing, I think we all need to listen to you."

"That's great then," the captain said, "Of course, I have nothing against this new outfit, but I feel it's better suited for celebratory occasions onshore. Sir, you must know, work at sea is always hard and tiring, and doesn't quite align with this new outfit."