Farstrider Dawnguard:
The Everdawn Departs Sunsail Anchorage
The sun shone brightly as the crew of the Everdawn readied her to depart. A formidable Farstrider cruiser, the golden embellishments of her classic yet modern thalassian design glimered, freshly polished during the week-long layover at Sunsail Anchorage.
Ethan’tolas Everdawn, captain of the vessel that bore his family’s name, stepped out onto the main deck and smiled, watching as his crew worked with diligence and pride. He had donned his Farstrider uniform, for the first time since the ship had dropped anchor, in preparation for the return to duty. As he strode across the deck, he ran his fingers aong the railing, satisfied with the smoothness of the surface.
He made his way to the stairs and up to the bridge, elevated and offering a view of his people, hard at work. Bringing his fingers to his lips, he whistled for his crew’s attention. “Status report.”
Having stopped what they were doing, his faithful crew turned to face him. Sunstriker, Everdawn’s first officer, called up to his captain.
“Ship has been resupplied and cargo secured down below. Crew are at stations and ready to depart. Including our new recruits, sir.”
Everdawn looked about, inspecting his crew.
The new recruits, aspiring Farstrider rangers, warriors and scouts, had enlisted to this voyage to see if a life at sea was part of their journey. They looked nervous, anxious, and perhaps a little queasy already. He wondered how many of them would develop their sea legs, and how many would return to the woods after this trip.
Meanwhile, his regular crew stood confident, resolute and eager for another adventure. Most of them had been with him for years, since they had all found each other following the destruction of their kingdom. His family’s vessel had become their home, and as he worked to protect them, they committed to maintaining the vessel and pledging their full loyalty to their leader.
Alleri’ella Dawnchaser, with her flaming hair, strode up to the captain, taking a spot to his left. She looked down at the crew. “I’m not so sure those recruits are going to make it.” She smirked. “Rest assured, though, I will pray for them.”
Ethan’tolas chuckled. " Just keep that Light of yours on our side and they’ll be just fine."
She smiled in return. “I’ve spoken by words of blessing on the ship and crew. And made sure the sickbay is stocked and ready.”
As they spoke, first officer Sunstriker climbed the stairs and joined them. “I think we’re good to go, Captain.”
“And the repairs to the forward sails?”
“Mister Sunforge says that sail is better than new and should be able to survive any storm in the future.”
“Very good.” Ethan’tolas smiled and took a step forward, placing his hands on the railing before him, marking the edge of the bridge overlooking the main deck.
“Attention, all hands. I hope you’ve enjoyed your time here, and you all got to see family, friends and loved ones. But a sailor’s life is out there, not in the safety of a harbor.” He paused, seeing many of his regular crew nod and smile, while one recruit seemed a little green in the face.
“Today, we set sail for the Broken Isles. It should take us about four days to get there with favorable winds. Our ship has been requested to escort some familiar passengers to their destination, and we will make sure they get there safely. Questions?”
“Did we pack the ale?”
Laughter bellowed at the crew member’s joke. Ethan’tolas looked at Sunstriker, who gave him a confident nod. “Ale packed, and ready for consuming, Captain.”
“Well there you have it, crew.” Ethan’tolas raised his chin slightly. “Release mooring hooks and retract the ropes. Raise the anchor. Mister Duskcrusher,” he aid, turning to his navigator and pilot. “Take the wheel and guide us out.”
“Aye, aye, sir!”
As the crew jumped into action and the Everdawn began to turn, Ethan’tolas beamed with pride. He looked out at the horizon and wondered what adventures awaited them on the Great Sea…