Bing Gananda 4

3 Water

In the bay, the Brig rode quietly at anchor in the gentle breeze. But the sailors were sullen. They had been at sea for over three months now, and had just weathered a terrible storm. When the island had been spotted, they had hoped for some time ashore. But now the captain had forbidden it.
The island was on none of his charts, and he was wary. His ship had been badly damaged and needed repairs. And they needed fresh water badly. But Captain Pearce had a bad feeling about this place.
They had first spotted it on the horizon at sundown. It was the tall volcanic mountain they saw first. They had stood off all night, afraid to approach the strange shore in the dark. All though the night they could see the glow of the volcano on the mountain. Then with the dawn, they had found this cove. Now he was scanning the beach for any evidence of inhabitants.
The ship was only lightly armed. But she was swift, and her best defense was to flee. Their mission had been primarily to explore, and update the sketchy charts. But there were enemies in these waters. And now the Mary Anne was heavily damaged.
Mr. Tindor came up on deck. He was responsible for the updating of the charts. He was also the one to note any new discoveries they might come across in the Natural Sciences. And he also had some medical experience. But the two did not get along well. Captain Pearce thought Samuel Tindor had too much interest in useless plants and such. Now he would surely be wanting to spend time ashore.
"When will we be going ashore, Captain?"
Pearce didn't answer right away. He considered Samuel a nuisance at times like this. But Tindor was a Gentleman, with a Royal Commission, and connections to the Royal Society.
Pearce realized he would have to send a party ashore eventually. There was no good reason to put it off.
"Mr. Tindor?"
"Sir?"
"Does anything strike you as odd about this place?"
"Well, it's not on the charts. But that doesn't mean much. New islands are discovered all the time."
"Not that." Pearce didn't know how to express what he felt. It was like some kind of ill defined presence. But he did not want to confide in Tindor, and was now sorry he had said anything. He turned to the Bos'n.
"Launch the longboat. Take some men with you and see if you can find some fresh water. Arm the men."
Tindor was surprised at that.
"May I join the party?"
"If you must."
Then the captain went to his cabin, and shut the door.



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