"I am no sailor," said Rhia. "All I know about sailing is that the ships are towed out to sea at high tide, where they open their sails and depart for the Island of Dragons. I have often been on one of those ships, but only as a passenger.

"As to the picture, all I can do is try to draw Hollind from memory. But there is nothing here that I can recognize."

"This picture," said Bix, "is called a map. We need these to navigate in safety." He scratched his balding head, then indicated small doors at either end of his quarters. "There are your quarters. I suggest you get some sleep. We leave first thing in the morning."

Amrhost sat on a wooden stool and gratefully began to work his wet leather boots off. Nylandor pulled off his wet clothes, hung them up to dry, and flopped on his back on his narrow cot with a sigh.

"I would know why Julina was upset last night," Nylandor said quietly, his tone non-accusatory. "I understand the two of you exchanged words."

Amrhost took a deep, measured breath and let it out, slowly. "Have you spoken with her?"

"I passed her in the hallway after she left you on the parapet last night. And, no, I didn't speak with her today."




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