Chapter 24
".... This is"
"Amazing"
"Glorious"
"... Just, damn"
A trapezoidal hull design, with a distinctive fin-shaped spire extending below the keel, reminiscing of a fish. A medium length bowsprit, a 2 layered Quarterdeck, and its side was a mast in a shape of fish tail. Towering at a length of 45 meters with of a beam width of 11 meters, spanning 104 meters floor length from its bow to its stern, and height of 6.5 meters. This majesty Airships that laid bare to them to see, proudly standing tall for all to behold, was the very ship they asked to be made
"For a budget of a 80 gold coins, my crew went bonkers, especially when they heard it was from some classy dames with taste in elegance and humor"
Without a word, the 4 simply raised their chin up, and exchanged thoughtful grins, while they tentatively listened to the man's words.
"Alright, listen up. We've got 6 heavy Howitzers flanking each side of your floordeck, 2 beefy Carronades by the Quarterdeck, and 4 sturdy Bombards snug against the Hull. The stern is powered with a, though not top in the line, but a hard drawn power source for faster speed and maneuverability. We also used some sturdy material for your ships, so it won't be a scrap of paper after a few rounds of battle. Though not impressive, my crew threw in a little something extra for you, a speed enhancer for that fancy carriage of yours. So if cornered or in pinch, you can easily zip out like a troubled cat"
"....."
The 4 were simply fell silent, nodding in response, as not only unfamiliar with all of these things he was saying, but also struck by their masterful craftsmanship. Elizabeth then suddenly locked her gazed at the bottom of the Keel, her eyes then traveled from the bottom to the top, and scanning the nearby ships, before she then asked him, bewildered
"Why does.... This pole like thing attached to the bottom of the ship, and not atop of it? Does it do something?"
"We call that a Mast, young lady"
He stated with a hint of sarcasm, as he glance at them while crossing his arms, before responding
"Alright, listen here. Have any of you sailed a ship, handled a boat, or touched one before? Or even know the first thing about navigating the seas?"
All of them then shook their head, as not even in their past lives did they ever got a chance to see one up close.
"Figures. That's why we didn't bother with any masts on the floor decks. Knowing you lot, rather than navigation, I will bet that it will be used for decoration, or for a fancy tombstone."
".... Huh?"
Puzzled, Kanade uttered
"See, the Mast is crucial for harnessing wind to speed up your ships for faster travel, and much better sailing. But as none of you lass knows how, it'd either collect dust or worse, if used, it will be your end maker. Concern, my men didn't added any for your transport, just simply tucked it below the deck, standing there all vertical-like."
"We can learn though"
Sarah protest as she glared at him, which the man simply answered, unbothered
"Yeah, sure, you can, but babies takes a few months to learn how to write before they can spell, so if you aren't in a hurry, we do give tutorial and further information regarding such, but if not, then it is much better to hire someone, or simply don't add one"
"..... That's reassuring"
"We take consideration for newborns who aren't yet flyers in this world, much better to let them know the limits of their wings before they fall"
He stated, stern and upfront, which the 4 clearly understood.
"So what's the difference between this horizontal mast and this vertical mast then?"
Tsubaki question, curious and intrigued, which the man noticed, and quite appreciated
"Unlike horizontal Masts, which you can adjust to catch the wind just right, vertical one can only cut through the wind current, and it is pretty much useless without any assistance from any device to propel it, unlike those horizontal ones. But here's the kicker, one of its biggest advantage will be its acceleration, especially when the wind is against you, which something those horizontal masts just can't handle."
"..... I see"
She stated, placing her left hand to her lips
"With a powerful speed enhancer in your ship, added with that Mast, executing hit-and-run tactics will be a breeze for this fancy cake."
"... If that thing is so great, why none of the other ships installed one then?"
Elizabeth asked, as she saw some of the docked ships not having one
"Because unlike you lass, they can drive. Also, it depends to the size of the ships, if one just ignorantly add such in their ships without proper evaluation can cause disability in your ships balance, and may also hinder the ships sailing power. So one must have a great knowledge about ships and tweaks to add one"
"I see"
"It's quite early than intended, why?"
Tsubaki questioned, as before, right after adding 10 gold coins for the ship, and also offered further suggestions, he had mentioned that it would take at least 3 months to finish, yet here they were, still 2 months in time, with this Airship finished and ready
"Blame my crew for that one. They don't often get requests from fancy lass, so uncommon that they burned the midnight oil to craft this beauty. Though exhausted, and quite, let say, 'energetic', they made sure your ship won't fell down from a simple gasp of a sea turtle"
"Hearing that, we can't simply just accept this without a thank you"
Kanade giggled as she stated
"Believe me, even a glimpse of your smile will pump up those idiots for a year or 2, and I won't be surprised if some of them would create a statue just to honor all of you"
And after hearing that, she was now concerned
"..... I hope it is just for honoring"
"Believe me, it won't"
"..."
Which made the 4, though thankful, but troubled. After a few discussions about when will they start their 1st flight, the interior of the ship, and also the equipments installed inside it, they then went outside of the Hangar.
"Look, if your crew simply consist of you measly 4, I can hook you up with some names of reliable folks that won't stab you in your sleep. Can't afford any more drama on this voyage."
"No need to, we already have someone to fit the bill"
"Ah, so you've got yourself a lucky lad, eh? Make sure this lucky fisherman of yours ain't some lightweight starter pack, who folds at the first sign of trouble, but can easily take a few rounds when things get rough."
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"No worries, he can take care of his own"
Though unknown to them, or just simply a wishful thinking, after experiencing such out of this world magic of reincarnation and summon, they wonder if Shin, their 1st man, also here. Sensing something from their expression, he just left the details to them, and didn't further pursue.
Remembering something before they left, he then spoke
"My men plead me like a lost puppy for this, but I'll cut you a deal on the next repair. Just be damn sure that neither you and the ship aren't cut up sausage when you get back"
"We will"
They stated, before they bowed and left. Riding Kanade's familiar, they transverse the plain going back to the town.
"By the way, what month are we now?"
".... I think.... No, I don't know. Why?"
"Just asking"
Sarah stated, which made Kanade confused.
"Will, as we start our journey in that ship, along the way, we'll be facing different seasons and weather conditions. So I'm just thinking if it's good to buy some winter clothes already, along with other necessary supplies."
"Hmmm..... I think we should, considering that winter and storms are the bane of sailors and ships"
"We should also try taking some Quest, we have 11 more requests to go before we ranked up"
"Then that's decided"
Hiiis
Kanade's familiar then rushed back to the town in sprint. Returning to the town, after unsummoning their familiar, the co then entered
Whistle
"Gorgeous"
Said the guard as he saw the 4 disembarking their ride, and coming towards them. Hearing his flattery, the 4 simply smiled as they pass him
"You know you will die if you keep doing that"
Hearing his partner remarks, he then response with a grin
"Hey, we're cut from different cloths, mate. You are loyal to one woman, I go with multiple ladies. If I die while basking myself in them, then I won't wish for more hahaha"
His companion simply chuckled.
"And also"
He then stared back at the 4, whose greeting all the people that were passing them
"No man can ignore those beauty with ripe fruits hanging bare"
"So what will you do then?"
"If possible, a night or 2 maybe? Ahahahha"
"Ahahahhah just dream on it"
"Oh I well! Ahahahhah"
The 2 simply hysterically laugh. The group's popularity quickly spread throughout the entire town, making them briefly renowned. Their beauty and kind nature endeared them to many: men, women, children, and adults alike. During that time, numerous men attempted to win their favor by proposing, only to receive a straightforward and resolute 'no' in response."
The groups popularity were almost spread out to the whole town, making them well-known for a short while. Thanks to their beauty and good nature, they easily befriends a lot of folks, men, women, children, and adult. In those time also, lots of men tried thier luck in successfully asking for their hand, yet all they get were a straight and simple no.
Reaching the guild, they then went straight to the [Quest Log], where all the Quest were posted, and
"....."
Simply greeted by an almost empty board. Quest doesn't always go around everyday and everytime, some folks simply can easily retrieve what they needed, can fixed what they broke, and can handle themselves with less help. And another thing also is that people aren't always in need, so adventurers often seek resources or travel to other towns or islands to make ends meet.
"..... Well, let just go shopping then"
Sarah stated. To the right of the plaza, north of town, stands a simple yet splendid building, the [Rion's Adventure Outfitter]. An usual house design consisting of 2 distinct sections: the front placed in vertical, standing tall and splendid with a wide portch, and attached to its back is a larger, horizontal structure that outwardly extend, with 2 floors and a beautiful balcony. A very definition of artistic look of a great builder.
"Welcome!"
And inside, they were energetically greeted by the owner, an ample body {Dwarf}, which is quite bizarre for a race known for their expertise in weapon and craftsmanship, to be selling clothes.
"Dear customers, what do you need?"
She greeted, tinged with a blend of cheerfulness and grumpiness, truly different from a prideful race of stubborn folks
"We would like to have a set of clothes for winter and rainy season"
"Certainly! Now, please follow me"
Following her, they then went to another room, to an adjoining section which is attached to this house, and there they were greeted by a meticulously crafted lineup of tailored clothes. 3 {Half Elf} were carefully organizing and checking the displayed garments.
"All these here? Handmade clothes, each one carefully sewn and designed for people to actually wear and use. Whether it's for traveling or simple picnic, hunting or simply adventuring, all are crafted in delicate handiwork"
.....
After spending a couple of hours selecting and looking, they then proceed to purchase 3 sets of winter clothes for each other, which costed them 5 big silver, and 5 silver coins. They then went to a weapon shop, which is located southeast of the town - 2 turns to the right and straight, then left turn and head straight again from Rion's store - [Gibert's Weapon Shop], a distinctive gablefront house.
"That would be 4 big silver coins"
The young clerk, with his face smudged with charcoal, remarked, as he wore his smithing apron. After that, they then headed to the north of the town, located almost at the edge, to [Amhan's Grimoires and Wands], a Tower house - a house with a tower like design, where the top floor is the house, while the ground floor resembles a fortified tower entrance.
"Welcome... What can I do for you?"
And beam a menacing smile like a child who did something wrong but acting she didn't.
"..... We just want a Grimoire and a wand please"
"Sure, no problem..... We have a lot, of them, at the back..... Just, follow me"
Troubled, the Co could only smile wryly at her, as she forcefully tried to be cheerful in front of them. The owner of the shop, Amhan, was a {Feyman}, a child between a {Fairy} and a Human. Unlike other races, when a {Fairy} fell in love to a Human, they make themselves shift into a Human size person, and charm them. They then steal a part of their soul to make the child, as they can't conceive children from other race. In our modern time, she could be referred as an introverted goth
After purchasing a Grimoire and a wand, and paying 3 big silver, and 15 silver coins, they then left. After everything was settled, and seeing the day is still young, they then decided to head back to the Harbor, to ask Astros for some field training, when suddenly
"Oh thank heavens!"
A plus size then out of nowhere came at them, arms stretched up wide open, trying to hug them. Feeling a slight discomfort, Elizabeth then released an intimidating aura as she spoke
"Stay back!"
Which made the man jolt in surprise and fear. Sarah then spoke in a stern tone as she ask him
"What do you want?"
The man, snapping back, then suddenly cried as he plead and kneel before them
"Oh please, please help me!"
Which totally startled and confused them
"Like I said-"
"My family please, please my family! I will do anything, anything! I will give you anything I have, please! Please help me!"
Not knowing what to do, the 4 were simply staring him and even planning to leave him alone, but
Creak
"Oh!... Great, people"
Until she arrived, cursing in a silent voice.
"Oh.. dear customers, what seems to be the problem?"
And smiled in an unfavorable gleam.
....
<>><×[<|{Monster/ Race/ Equipment Manual}|>]×><<>
<> Howitzer is a heavy artillery crafted by {Dwarves}, used for high or low angle projections.
<> Carronades is a weapon with a short barrel and large bore diameters, used for heavy projections in short distance.
<> Bombard is a massive cannon designed for heavy output in long distance.
> Crafted from heavy metals so it won't be scrap metal after a few bombard.
<> {Half Elf}, race born from a love between a Human and an {Elf}, considered taboo for the {Elves} that even a {Dark Elf} is much favorable than this creation.
> {Half Elf} with an ear of an {Elf} are good at magic and bow, agile and flexible, and excel in observation and gathering Intel. Prideful by nature. [350+ years]
> {Half Elf} with an ear of a Human are good at physical combat, and born with good physique and unyielding resilience. Ambitious by nature. [70+ years]
> {Half Elf} with a an oval shape ear and a pointy end are weak in combat and magic, but they are born with an exceptional gift, as they are good in craftsmanship and artistry, which is favored by {Dwarves} and {Gnomes}. Calm and collective by nature. [200+ years]
> [In terms of spiritual connection]: {Elf} ear ≥ both ≤ Human ear
<> {Feyman} are much taller than dwarf with a few centimeters, adept at magic, and known for their cunning or devious nature, though some of them are seclusive bunch, who prefer solitude and quietness. Being a half fairy, they can enter the [Realm of the Enchant], where creatures in legends and myths dwells. They have shorter lifespan than {Fairy}, typically around 600 to 700 years, owing to their lesser magical abilities. [600+ years]
> {Feyman} who are born from a human mother and a male fairy, excel in fire and earth magic, disdain wind and water elements. They are known as hot tempered trickster.
> {Feyman} who are born from a human father and a female fairy, excels in wind and water magic, disdain fire and earth elements. They are known as a wise conman
> {Feyman} who are born from a human father/mother and a female Fae, excels at dark magic, and hates all elements. They are known creature of foulness and trickery.
<>><×[<|{××××××××××l}|>]×><<>
.....
[For those who are curious about Amhan's tower house]
The ground floor or the tower base like structure have 2 storey, 1st floor are for grimoires, with the 2nd floor for wands and elixirs, and some hexes too. The books are piled in a Towering shelves, just 2 meters above her, while the wands are stored in cabinets.
The reception desk is just a few distance from the entrance, while his working station is at the 2nd floor. Her house, the one atop, is field with a simple interior of what a house looks like inside, a few things she added for her convenience.
[×××××××××]
*This information just simply came to mind when I thought about wa'a kaulua, or the canoe that Moana and Maui used in the movie, and also this additional design made from different artist to Airships, when I was searching for a good Airships designs. So when I was planning on adding one, I further need some details whether it can work against the law of physics, and it sure did.
I'm trying to make sure that my book still in the realm of realism as much as possible, so I thoroughly searched and widen my knowledge regarding it, also thanks to chatgpt btw.