The Leviathan's Lament: A cursed saga.

in the shallow waters just off the island's coast. She glanced back at the ship, its massive dark hull creaking gently with the pul

eck of land on no royal map but known to those who lived on the fringes of society. It was the kind of place she needed now:

imple: gather enough supplies for the ship and scout for a crew. Her current crew of Dúnmara men had come with her for loyalty's sake, but they we

erfect place to

ir wares, while traders from distant islands sold everything from weapons to spices. Ailbhe kept her hood low, shadowing her fa

ing by a stall, she traded a few coins for a loaf of bread and some smoked fish, tucking the food into the satchel slung over her shoulder. The island was more alive th

find what sh

ken laughter echoed out into the dusty streets. She heard whispers of plunder, sea monsters, and storms that had

ted her

swayed in the breeze, and the sound of clinking tankards and boisterous voices spilled from its

and mercenaries huddled around rough-hewn tables, engaged in card games and loud debates over the spoils of recent raids. A few heads turned as she e

y beard, nodded as she approached. "What'l

pulled a few coins from her satchel and slid them across the counter. "I'm look

eh? This lot's good for a fight, but you'll want the ones who stay sober when the storm hits." He jerked his chin toward a group seated at

led together in quiet conversation. Unlike the rowdier patrons,

ooked up as she approached, their expressions guarded. One of them, a

," he said, his voice rough,

ng for men who can handle themselves

r, exchanging glances with his companions. "The Leviathan?" he repeated, skepticism heavy in his to

er face impassive. "I've dared," she sai

eyes narrowing. "What makes you think any of us wou

quiet but firm. "Because you

rve, I'll give you that." He glanced at his companions again, then back to her. "But you're right. We'

e needed these men, and she needed them now. "I have a plan," she lied, meeting his gaze w

ffer. Finally, he nodded. "We'll join you. But if you're lying abo

it didn't reach her