Strange Ships on the Horizon ((Ts Nov 23, 10am))

[Ivanna]

*In the distance, people who normally walk the docks see three ship-shaped specks in the distance. It's unusual for this time of year, as the winds have already started to pick up and all ships expected have already docked. The first dock workers who notice the shapes stop and stare, then quietly nudge their companions to take a look. Odd pockets of stillness happen, on dry docks and ships, now empty of cargo and being brought in tightly in preparation for the winter storms. The three unexpected ships loom in the distance, approaching ever closer.*


*A few older workers go into the administration building. They find Master Rex reviewing the year's cargo records, and with only a few words and a look, Master Rex closes the ledger and follows them to the edge of an unused dock. He stares out over the horizon, watching the ships. As he watches, a young boy, dressed well but for his bare feet runs up behind Master Rex. He squints into the distant sea, a chalk board tucked under his arm.*


*Master Rex looks down at the boy, then takes up the chalk board. He writes down a few words, then hands the board back to the boy. With one last stare at the ships, the boy takes off running, away from the docks, towards town. Master Rex shakes his head, but continues to stare.*


*After a few more minutes, shouts are heard from various Mates and captains, harrying the hands back to work. But everyone keeps an eye on the ships, aiming steadily for Ralinwood.*


*The three ships loom slowly, steadily larger.*