Jori
Chapter 1
Jori sailed the Thunderbird into the warehouse docks, the salt-weathered sails snapping in the wind. The hull of the ship groaned as it settled into its moorings, and Jori jumped onto the dock, his boots landing with a thud. The scent of salt and seaweed wafted up from the water, mixing with the tang of tar and old rope. The calls of seagulls echoed across the water, and the clang of metal on metal from a nearby shipyard carried on the breeze. Jori took a deep breath, savoring the familiar smells of the sea, before turning to his crew and giving them a nod, signaling that it was time for them to disembark.
The crew moved quickly, grabbing their belongings and preparing to leave the ship. They had been at sea for many weeks and were eager to get back to shore. Some of the sailors headed to the nearby tavern to spend their earnings, while others went to the market to buy provisions for their next journey.
Jori watched as his crew disembarked from the Thunderbird, eager to stretch their legs and spend their hard-earned coin in Tirovna. He lingered on deck, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling port.
As Jori made his way to the warehouse where he planned to leave his ship, he was approached by a hooded figure. "Captain Jori," the figure said in a low voice, "I have a message for you from Jessinia." Jori raised an eyebrow, intrigued. He and Jessinia had a long history, and he was curious about what she had to say.
The hooded figure handed Jori a small scroll and disappeared into the crowds. Jori unrolled the scroll and read its contents. Jessinia's message was brief and to the point. She informed Jori that Aria, the young woman he had rescued from the sea, was being taken care of and was safe in Tirovna. Jori smiled to himself, satisfied that Aria was in good hands.
Jori continued on to the warehouse docks where he would be changing ships. He was greeted by the harbormaster, who informed him that a small sailing boat was available for his journey up the coast. Jori nodded, pleased with the news. He was eager to set sail on his next adventure.
As he walked along the docks, he noticed a group of sailors huddled together, deep in conversation.
Curious, Jori approached the group, trying to blend in with the crowd.
The sailors huddled near the edge of the docks, their voices low as they spoke in hushed tones. Jori's keen ears picked up their conversation and he moved closer to listen.
"I tell you, I was there when it happened," one sailor said, his voice grave. "The captain of the Crimson Dawn was a good man, but his crew was reckless. They followed a map to a ruined fortress upstream and never returned."
"What happened to them?" another sailor asked, his eyes wide with wonder.
"The fortress was guarded by a powerful magic. The crew was decimated, but the captain managed to bury his trusted first mate before he died. It is said that he buried the compass with him, along the riverbank."
Jori's heart skipped a beat. He knew the location of the ruined fortress. He had a friend who lived along the river and had often talked about the abandoned ruins.
"And the compass?" Jori asked, unable to resist.
The sailors turned to look at him, surprised to see him so close. "It's said to be the key to unlocking the treasure that the map leads to," one sailor replied.
Jori nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. He bid the sailors farewell and made his way to his new ship, the small sailing boat he had acquired for his journey up the coast.
He made his way to the small sailing boat, hoisted the sail and set off up the coast, his thoughts fixed on the prize that lay ahead.
As he sailed, he couldn't help but think of the many dangers that lay along the river. He had heard stories of fierce storms, treacherous rapids, and dangerous creatures that lurked in the shadows. But Jori was not one to be deterred by such things. He was a seasoned sailor and had faced many dangers in his life.
The sun was getting low in the sky when he finally reached the mouth of the river. He could see the towering cliffs that rose up on either side, casting deep shadows over the water. The river was narrow and fast-flowing, and Jori felt a thrill of excitement as he navigated the treacherous currents. As he sailed further upstream, he noticed the scenery around him changing. The cliffs grew taller and more jagged, and the water grew calmer. He soon came upon a small cove, where he spotted a small cottage nestled in the trees.
Jori docked his boat and made his way to the cottage, he spotted his friend Tarek standing on the porch, surveying the river. "Jori, good to see you!" Tarek called out, waving him over.
"Likewise, Tarek," Jori replied with a grin as he walked up to the cabin. "I heard there were some ruins around here, thought I'd come up and take a look."
Tarek nodded. "Aye, I know the ones. I've explored them a time or two myself. Quite a sight to see."
Jori's eyes widened in excitement. "Really? What did you find there?"
Tarek leaned in conspiratorially. "Oh, a few trinkets here and there. Nothing too valuable, mind you. But it's the adventure that counts, isn't it?"
Jori laughed. "I suppose you're right. Mind if I take a look myself?"
Tarek gestured towards the door. "By all means, my friend. You're more than welcome to stay the night if you like. It's not much, but it's better than sleeping under the stars."
Jori grinned. "Thanks, Tarek. I appreciate it."
They made their way inside the cabin, and Tarek set about starting a fire in the hearth. As the flames flickered to life, Jori gazed around the small room, taking in the simple furnishings and decorations. There was a sense of warmth and comfort in the air, and Jori felt grateful to have such a kind friend in Tarek.
For the rest of the evening, they chatted and reminisced about old times, catching up on the years that had passed since they last saw each other. As the night wore on, Jori felt his eyelids growing heavy, and he realized just how tired he was. He bid Tarek goodnight and made his way to the small bed in the corner of the room.
As he lay down, Jori couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. He was finally going to see the ruins for himself, and who knew what treasures he might uncover? As he drifted off to sleep, visions of adventure and discovery danced through his mind, and he knew that he was going to have a good night's rest.
