Marcys: Thirst

March 7

I am feeling the great regret that we did not turn back when we first discovered the kegs had holes in them. Had we been in the gods’ favor we could have easily made it to the string of islands before our water supplies ran out, but it appears that the gods’ are against us and our voyage.

On our first few days after the discovery we tried collecting rain water, but it seemed as though the great skies have closed themselves from us. We have not had a single drop of rain since the discovery.

We have also endured scorching heats unusual to March, as well as long calms. At first we tried to row during these calms, but it soon became clear the men were too dehydrated to continue at such exertions.

 Now, the men are barely able to complete their basic tasks.

In an effort to slow the dehydration process we have reduced the crew number to the bare essentials, keeping the off-duty men below deck and out of the sun as much as possible. Still,

I am sorry for my absence, and cannot even remember what I was saying before being called away, but I have good news. Land has been sighted. A great distance off, I admit, but it still means we have a chance.

“My lord, let’s give the remaining water to the men and at dusk, when it is cooler, have them row us to land,” I suggested.

“And if it is not enough water to rejuvenate them?” asked the king.

“Then it will not be enough to keep us alive until the fickle winds blow us to land, assuming they ever blow us in that direction. We could as easily be sent off away from the island.”

Ardythe looked to Haddock, who had kept his mouth shut. I needed his assistance, but for some reason he chose not to speak. Usually I agreed with allowing Ardythe to arrive at the conclusion I need from him on his own, but I felt this situation too dire to leave to Ardythe’s inconsistencies.

“What say you, captain?” asked the king.

“I agree with Marcys. The sea has not been kind to us. I would not rely on the gods to get us to safety. We need to take our fate into our hands. Give the men the water, let them rest until dusk, and then we all take turns rowing until we are there and safe.”

Ardythe lapsed back into silence. I could practically see the wheels in his head turning.

“Very well, give the men the water that remains. Give non to the women and let them rest. I want the very barest number on deck during the day.”

It is a great relief to have the king listening to his advisors, such as we are. I will return to tell you how our plan worked.

We have dropped anchor in a little cove and even sent one boat load of men onto the island. In time we will get as many on land as possible, giving everyone a chance to rest their sea legs. The women are very anxious to get off the ship. I can hardly blame them, but first men must find drinkable water and set up some sort of defensive perimeter. We do not know if this island is inhabited, or if there are any dangerous species on it.

Much to the disgust of the women, it will be some time before we can get them to the beach. Still, today is a victory of sorts. I can rest well knowing no one will die of thirst, despite the catastrophes that have beset us.