《Old Man’s Tale 2. Tales of the Trio》


 Peter Put to the Test

    Chapter 1.  Peter Put To the Test.


    Author note:  These events take place immediately after the end of Old Man¡¯s Tale.


    Absolute chaos.  That was the only thing that Peter could think of to describe their situation.  One moment they had been cruising along the Mexican coast nearing Cozumel.  Next instant they had been in complete blackness, thunder and then blinding light.  When he could stand again his massive ship was not where it was supposed to have been.  As insane as it sounded in his mind, they were now somewhere else.  In a large harbour overlooking a small rustic village, a few hundred yards off shore.  To make matters worse the power had failed, total blackout over the ship.  No steering, no elevators,  nothing.  Not even the safety lights worked and they were brand new and fool proof.  The bridge crew, when they were able to, stood shakily and lined the windows.  Peter opened the side door and stepped outside.  The weather was much cooler than Mexico in summer, felt more like early autumn.  A few of the officers had joined him on the balcony.


    ¡°Peter, I mean Captain, what¡¯s happened.¡±, asked the first officer Paul Berg.  A good friend for many years, they had served together on many ships on the Festival line.  ¡°I have no idea, but we¡¯re still floating.  Send a runner to engineering and find out what¡¯s happening, no never mind that.  I will go down myself, I hate waiting.¡±, replied Peter.  Aye aye was the response and Peter started the long trek down.  As he made his way to the crew stairs he noticed the emergency lights were beginning to flicker and finally come on.  This would make things much easier to travel down the gargantuan ship than just using his phone light.  It was going to be a long trip.


    The ship and operational crew are quite separate from the resort staff. Cruise ships are really two intertwined things in one.  A floating resort built on the hull of a massive ship.  Peter was in overall command of the vessel but didn¡¯t have too much to do with the resort part.  Show up for dinners and special events, that was about it.  Guiding the ship, in an economical way, was a very time consuming job.  Avoiding bad weather, staying in proscribed shipping lanes, all were part of it.  Keeping to a schedule, fuel consumption were what kept him on the bridge for hours.  All this ran through his mind as he continued his way down.  He could hear panicked calls for help, children crying.  Luckily on this trial trip the passengers consisted of investors, company shareholders and their families.  No general passengers.  With a full crew of staff on board they were up to the task of dealing with this emergency.   But he did have a odd feeling, just an foreboding at the back of his mind.  It was silly because he had been sailing and on the water since he was born, the feeling persisted though.  He wasn¡¯t supposed to be here and he should leave as soon as possible, just jump off the ship, you¡¯ll be fine.  He shook his head, where did that thought come from?  It would be suicidal to jump from this ship, the drop alone would probably be fatal.  He continued down.


    Thirty minutes after leaving the bridge he finally reached the engineering offices.  Hoping to find George, the chief engineer, but no luck.  Following shouting voices he came upon a stark scene.  There was daylight coming from opened loading bays, apparently manually cranked open.  The fresh air was wonderful but the mob fighting to get out was not.  He could hear Georges voice bellowing out over the crowd ¡°Get back, get back ye daft buggers.  You can¡¯t jump down, the ships safe, nothings coming to get you.¡±.  The crowd of sailors, about fifty or so, were surging back and forth as George and a couple of his senior staff tried to prevent a mass exodus over the side.


    The engineering crew were mostly young and made up of many different ethnicities.  Greek, Italian, Portuguese, and at this moment everyone was shouting in their native language.  Bedlam.  George noticed that Peter was here and came over immediately.  ¡°Captain, what in the world happened, it went black down here, nothing worked, then the emergency light started working, but nothing else.¡±, he was waving his arms in agitation, then pointed out the huge hatch.  ¡°And where are we, that¡¯s not Mexico, and why do I feel like I have to leave the ship?¡± he asked.  He turned his head quickly to look at Peter ¡°It was an EMP, wasn¡¯t it.  Who nuked us captain¡­.was it them?¡±.  Peter had no clue what George was talking about, whatever was going on was effecting him badly.  He tried to calm things down ¡°Please calm yourselves, no one attacked us, I¡¯m not sure what happened but the ship is safe.¡±.


    It didn¡¯t work, the few people trying to prevent jumpers had started edging toward the edge as well.  Panic was setting in and there was nothing he could do about it.  This was going to end badly, he couldn¡¯t imagine the panic happening on the passenger decks.  I might as well end it now, he thought, the water is the way out.  I¡¯ll let it take me and I can rest.  He began walking to the open hatch, along with his crew.


    Through the hatch came a piercing screech, it woke him out of his fugue state.  Shaking the cobwebs he heard the screech again, it seemed to be a tune of some kind.  Well that can¡¯t be right, I am really losing my mind.  The sound was nearly a constant, and yes it was a tune, the unicorn song.  Standing at the edge, he saw a strange but welcome sight.  An odd wooden boat, a steamship it looked.  About 25 metres in length and broad beamed.  It was too far to read the name but it was closing fast, and for some reason he was feeling better.  The urge to jump had passed, the other crew were shaking their heads as if waking up.  ¡°Captain,¡± it was George, ¡°what happened, I was about to¡­¡±.  He shuddered.


    ¡°Me too George, I have no idea what¡¯s going on but that steam ship saved us I think.¡± Peter replied.  The engineer looked out, the boat was very close now, circling the liner slowly.  George had the idea of lowering a ladder to the water and making contact with whoever it was, a few metres down but there were contingencies for this.  A massive power loss that is.  All doors unlocked, with a few exceptions, to prevent being locked in a cabin.  All food area were unlocked as well to give easy access to the huge supply of MRE¡¯s they were obliged to carry.  Nearby lockers held both rope and aluminum ladders, life jackets, flotation suits, every possible safety equipment imaginable.


    It was the work of a few minutes to ready a ladder and a couple of crew in safety gear.  Peter was in a flotation suit, helmet and safety rope as he went down the ladder.  Concentrating on making it down safely, he didn¡¯t notice that the steamboat had come quite close, in fact under him.  He was shocked as two strong hands lifted him off the ladder and set him neatly on the wooden deck.  ¡°Welcome aboard the Rose¡±, said a deep voice.


    His knees went weak and he half fell to the deck, supporting himself with one hand.  He did, however, feel more alive again, less inclined to be jumping in the water.  Another set of hands were on his shoulders as he stood, smaller hands but seemingly just as strong, a bit unnaturally so.  Peter managed to get his wits about him and took in his surroundings.  Two people were standing near.  The first a young girl, about 18, dressed in what you might think a pirate would.  A dark brown dress low in the back, nearly brushing the ground, but cut high in front, long leather boots, high gloves above the elbow, quite a striking figure.  ¡°Hello,¡± she said ¡°I¡¯m Naomi O¡¯Malley, second mate.¡±.  A wooden chair was near when he had fallen and she gestured for him to sit.  ¡°My crew..there¡¯s a problem with the ship, god knows how the passengers are faring, what¡¯s going on?¡±, he asked plaintively.


    The deep voice answered him, from behind where he was sitting.  ¡°Your crew and passengers will be fine as long as we¡¯re close, I don¡¯t think electricity works very well here, and the answer to your last question is going to blow your mind.¡±.  Peter stood and turned to see a tall person standing as close to his ship as possible, only a metre away from the port side of whatever he was on now.  A man of about thirty five, well over six feet, bald except for a ferocious moustache.  Wearing what looked like cargo shorts and flip-flops, yellow collared short sleeve shirt, topped off with a wide yellow hat.  He had a grip on a loading ladder fixed to the side of the Melody and seemed to be holding his boat in place.  The man called out ¡°Let her drift Min, I¡¯ll tie off here in a bit, no undertow here.¡±  A response was heard from the structure on the bow of this boat ¡°Aye aye dad, throttle off.¡± In a squeaky voice.  ¡°Who are you people?¡± Peter asked.  ¡°I¡¯m Will Harris, captain of the heartboat Rose, the only boat on the lake.¡± the man, Will, replied.


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    Several of those terms didn¡¯t mean much to Peter, except one¡­the name Will.  ¡°Um, I think a man named Eli wants to be remembered to you.¡±.  Will laughed, a happy booming laugh ¡°Eli huh, bald smaller man, can¡¯t tell his age?¡±.  Peter nodded ¡°That¡¯s him, you know him?¡±.  ¡°Met him once, quite a character.¡±Will said, ¡°and as to who we are, you met Naomi right, the only one left is Minnie the first mate, but¡¯s she¡¯s  a bit busy in the wheelhouse.¡±.  ¡°Am not, someone told me he was gonna tie us off, but hasn¡¯t done that yet have you, no you haven¡¯t, probably drinking tea with the new guy from the monster boat, showing off holding on huh, I¡¯ll tie us off .¡±.  The owner of the voice was quite a sight, thought Peter.  About four feet tall, covered with short but very shiny fur, long ears, a round face with a slight muzzle wide open in a happy smile, sparkling brown eyes.  Dressed in yellow bib overalls, ending at the knee, black boots, tool belt and a yellow sou¡¯wester hat.  ¡°Hi guy, I¡¯m first mate Minnie, that¡¯s a big boat you have.¡±she said in her high pitched voice.  All he could do was nod.  She smirked at him and turned to the captain, showing that yes, she had a tail.


    Peter was overwhelmed but he hadn¡¯t become captain of the largest ship in the world by being no good in a crisis.  He rallied fast and began firing questions off. Where they were, what had happened aboard, who had done this and so on.  He also called up to his crew that were still looking over from the hatch a few meters above that he was safe and so were they..  ¡°It might be better if you gathered your crew and passengers to the side we¡¯re on, the effect will be mostly gone if they¡¯re close to us.¡± Will advised.  Peter laid out orders to start that happening.  ¡°What did you mean about electricity not working here, and where is here anyway.¡± he asked.   Will thought for a moment ¡°When I think of this place, compared to where we came from, I just call it Lakeworld.  It seems to fit.¡±.  Peter had to ask ¡°So we¡¯re not on, I can¡¯t believe I have to say it, not on earth anymore?¡±.  ¡°Yes and no, this is the same planet.  Same moon and seasons, climate seems to be in line with the old world, gravity too.  But there are differences.¡± Will answered.


    They were interrupted by shouts from above.  Hundreds of people were lining the rail and balconies above their heads, crew and passengers together.  At the open hatch Peter was glad to see the resort manager Elisabeth.  A very efficient, no nonsense person who was still approachable by her staff of thousands and passengers.  He was confident that she could handle any issue while he handled the ship.  ¡°Can you take people ashore captain?¡±, he asked ¡°with no power this vessel will become uninhabitable in a short time.¡±.  ¡° We could take¡­maybe a hundred at a time, but there¡¯s a problem.  If we leave, the lake will overcome you very quickly, that will not end well.¡±, Will said.  Minnie piped up ¡°Naomi and me could stay and you drive them to Newton.¡±.  Will shook his head ¡°No way are we separating, that ship came here fast, and could leave just as fast.  I¡¯m not going to risk losing either of you.¡±.


    Peter had a thought, ¡°Could you tow lifeboats?  Our boats hold 370 people and we would only need to drop 4.  That can be done mechanically, without power.¡±.  ¡°I don¡¯t see why not, we pull multi ton barges of coal regularly.¡±.  The plan was laid out quickly, they would tow four fully loaded boats to shore, with any extras on the Rose.  Peter climbed back up the ladder to relay the news to abandon ship.  This was met with disbelief and some hostility, but everyone remembered the feeling from before.  Despair and the knowledge that life was not worth continuing, that the deep water would solve all problems.


    Passengers had been herded on the lifeboat deck and were being loaded quickly.  Crew were taking turns searching the massive ship for stragglers but then returning to the starboard side, above the waiting heartboat.  This refreshed them temporarily and they  could return to work for a while before doing it again.  Using just the midship starboard boats helped the passengers .  These were dropping slowly to the fore and aft of the Rose.  Minnie was taking care of the tow lines with Naomi¡¯s help.  Their increased strength made handling the tow cables an easy task.  The watching sailors and passengers couldn¡¯t believe what they were seeing.  The two small people lifting very heavy cables like they were string, tying and twisting easily until the bobbing boats were secure and close.  The hatches were opened on the lifeboats and people were invigorated by the freshest air they had ever breathed.


    Several crew members were assembling supplies, food and water, temporary housing, even folding portable bathrooms.  This ship had it all.  Every convenience, every luxury item, every piece of safety equipment ever made.  A crane had been setup at the hatch over the Rose and hundreds of pounds of gear were being lowered. Peter couldn¡¯t believe it when  Will unhooked the gear net and casually set it to one side, Minnie took the next with Naomi¡¯s help.  Will saw him looking and shrugged ¡°We¡¯ve improved a bit since we got here.¡±.  Peter nodded ¡°We¡¯ll have to speak more of this later, I have to focus on getting everyone to safety first, but we have to talk.¡±.


    With full lifeboats in tow, several dozen people huddled on deck, the Rose headed slowly toward the Newton dock.  There were several hundred people clustered at the shore, it looked the entire population of Newton.  Not really surprising considering the events of the past few hours.  Will could see the councillors carriages at the far end, and as they closed some familiar faces were waiting.  The coal barges were still tied off on either side but the was still room to dock the lifeboats.  As they closed on the land people on deck were coming back to their usual selves.  The horrible miasma the lake caused had passed.  This of course meant that the arguing started, the questioning, the demands.  Shouts of ¡°where are we¡±, ¡°I¡¯m calling my lawyer¡±, ¡°Take me back to my cabin¡±, and so on.  Will handled this by totally  ignoring the questions and the people.  Minnie was at the helm and Naomi was blocking access.  Peter and his officers were trying to keep control but the situation was going down hill.


    After a few tense minutes they bumped up against the dock.  Sailors jumped tie them and started off loading the irate scared passengers.  Grouped up, they were escorted down the quay by Naomi, she hurried back after as the lifeboats had been pulled to the quay, tied off and passengers were being led off.  Again grouped up and moved down to the town.  Peter had been in the first lot and was talking to the council.  Trying to put them rest about the huge amount of new people.  ¡°We just need a space to set up our people for the duration.¡± Peter asked.  ¡°Of course.¡±, replied Samantha ¡°There¡¯s a large meadow, just to the north.  Your all welcome to use that.¡±.  ¡°Why not a hotel, can¡¯t you comp us until we¡¯re rescued.¡± shouted a man, echoed by hundreds of others, demanding help, whatever they could get.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what a hotel is, and there are so many of you, more than our whole town.¡± shouted Dave.  Things were getting out of control again.  Violence was nearly unknown in this world and Will could see how this was affecting the peaceful people of Newton.  He pulled Peter aside ¡°Get this under control, let your officers take groups to that meadow.  Start now.¡±, he said urgently.  Peter nodded, still partially in shock himself.  He called out ¡°Attention please, attention.¡±, nobody listened.  He was still wearing his flotation suit so he used the attached air horn.  That got people looking at him.


    ¡°Officers, crew, passengers.  We are going to head out of town to the area these people have kindly let us use,¡± he shouted.  He was instantly interrupted again with shouts ¡°I don¡¯t have to listen to you¡±, ¡°I demand to go back to the ship¡±, more calls about lawyers and lawsuits, where the rescue helicopters are, why don¡¯t the phones work and on and on.  The ships officers clustered near to Peter as he gave out orders.  The first officer was to take 200 people, second officer the same, on down the line.  Other crew members gathered up the needed equipment band set out first to prepare the area.  As people started moving with a purpose, it seemed to start everyone going.


    Except for a few dozen who had decided to force Will to take them to the ship.  They started marching toward the Rose in an effort to hijack her.  Minnie had stayed aboard, just too many people looking at her.  She blew the whistle to alert Will.  A few feet down the dock some started slowing down, a few more feet and most were walking as if in a dream.  A few made it fifty feet down the long quay before stumbling to a halt with confusion.  They were edging toward the water, a vacant look in their eyes.  Will and Naomi had watched from the land until the group stopped moving.  They walked up and started leading them back.


    None were coherent enough to ask why these two weren¡¯t affected and Will preferred to keep it that way.


    As the people had started dispersing the villagers were returning to their homes and businesses.  Oddly enough no stragglers had stayed behind and there was no good explanation why.  Perhaps it was fear of the unknown.   The councillors had stayed at the lands end of the quay, but they looked shaken.  ¡°What are we going to do, all those people, all those hungry mouths.¡±, said Gemma, ¡°We can¡¯t feed them, our winter stock would be gone in a week.¡±.  ¡°Their captain Peter said they brought food, but it won¡¯t be enough ¡°, Evelyn added.  Will was watching their discussion and knew there was a real problem here.  There would never be enough for this many, even if there was a shipload of MRE¡¯s.  That was a stopgap solution and  a very short one.


    He just didn¡¯t know what to do.  Sure, they could easily sail away, wash their hands of the whole thing.  That¡¯s not who he was though.  He wouldn¡¯t abandon a friend.  Then an idea hit him.  ¡°I¡¯m going to go talk with Peter.

 The Beginnings of an Idea

    Chapter 2. The Beginnings of an Idea


    Will was worried for Minnie and Naomis safety.They had dodged a bullet earlier when people had stormed the dock, trying to take the Rose.But if some of the surlier ones got wind that these three were immune to the lakes influence¡­well they would be captives before you knew it.Forced to work, probable slavery.That wasn¡¯t going to happen.His old world did not have the best history when two cultures clashed.He could see Newton being overrun by the passengers, and even the crew of the Melody.A person could be reasoned with, a mob was all need and fury.He had an idea but it was dangerous on a few levels.Relocating everyone a few hundred miles up the coast, by lying to them.Telling them help was on the way but they had to get back on the lifeboats to meet the rescue boat there.Then abandoning all of them, to whatever fate awaited them all.


    He had Minnie and Naomi take the Rose out to sea, to check out the Melody.Not to go on, but circle it.He told them it was to check for survivors and that was part of it.It was mostly to keep them out of harms way.He hadn¡¯t liked the look in some of those peoples eyes, they were calculating, seeing what they could get.They would have them in cages, to keep the masters safe from the water.Nope that was never going to happen , he was going to talk to Peter and see how things were progressing and if his plan was necessary.He didn¡¯t want to abandon Newton, but ¡°What a mess¡±, he muttered as he walked on.


    It was easy to follow where the horde of people had gone.Garbage, trash dumped everywhere.Meal wrappers and empty water bottles, typical behaviour from his old world.Turning a bend in the path he came across a tent city.Large inflatable tents, each capable of holding fifty people, lined up neatly.The noise level was more tolerable now, not so much screaming and crying, but this wouldn¡¯t last.There were dozens of the Melodie¡¯s crew milling around, carrying boxes of supplies and they directed him to where Peter was.Deep in discussion with several people, by their demeanour he could tell they were crew, not passengers.As he entered the tent he was noticed right away.An older man introduced himself as George and thanked him for the rescue.Same as an older woman named Elisabeth, she was nearly overwhelmed by the water, she said, and was about to jump from the top deck when the Rose came by.


    Will did not want to bring too much attention to his presence in the camp, so he asked if Peter and a couple of the others would take a walk.Across the meadow was a line of trees, behind that was a slow moving deep river.They sat at the edge.¡°You realize this situation will turn bad very quickly, don¡¯t you?¡±, Will asked.George had come along and spoke first ¡°Oh yes it will, I have overheard a few conversations about how we should just take the town, and the boat.Force the crew to sail it home.¡±.This was exactly what Will was afraid of, but it was chilling to hear someone mention it so casually.Peter was a very competent captain, but on land he had no real power over these peoples, including his crew.If, no not if, when the tipping point came he was at as much risk as any.¡°Would it do any good to call a meeting and explain as much as we can?¡±, Will asked.Elisabeth fielded this one ¡°We tried, on the way here, it was nearly a riot.People didn¡¯t believe we are on another world, I barely do myself.This could be an elaborate trick, gases on the ship, actors..¡±. She trailed off.


    ¡°I assure you it¡¯s no trick.¡±.The words came from behind them.From a smaller man, bald as an egg, wearing a long light yellow robe.Sitting at an ornate metal table with a pot of tea, and a plate of biscuits.¡°Hello again Will.¡± he said.


    On the Rose Minnie was worried, very worried.Their day had started wonderfully, leaving on a long trip, new things to see, maybe new people to meet.Then that horrible huge boat had appeared and brought those mostly awful people.¡°I don¡¯t like to see people in trouble, but after we helped they were all weird, looking and whispering, looking at us both, I didn¡¯t like it.¡±.Naomi nodded ¡°Me too, they¡¯re not like us, or Will.I¡¯m scared he won¡¯t come back.¡±.They were drifting out by the Melody.There was no chance they were boarding that monster, Minnie couldn¡¯t get lost but Naomi could get separated from her.It was just a terrible situation.


    Will sighed ¡°I hoped you would swing by, is this something you did, or what.Oh and by the way¡­thank you, for everything you did for Minnie and I.¡±.Elaith smiled fondly at him ¡°You are so welcome Will, it brought me great happiness to help you and your friend.¡±, he took a sip and gestured for the others to have a seat at the table.By sheer coincidence there were enough chairs, cups and biscuits for all.Pouring tea, asking one lump or two took a few minutes but everyone was settled.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s going on, if you made an appearance there must be a situation.¡±, Will said, ¡°What excellent tea this is, a blend isn¡¯t it, I taste orange pekoe, but there¡¯s something fruity and something earthy as well.¡±.Elaith laughed, a light high happy laugh ¡°My favourite it is, I blend it myself, but it took a while to perfect it.The secret is long steeping, to make sure the flavours all come out to play.I think even Minnie might like it, but it might just be more ¡®yuck water¡¯ to her.¡±.He laughed happily again.¡°What the Sam Hill is going on!¡± George shouted, standing up and throwing his teacup aside.The smile faded from Elaith¡¯s face a bit and he gestured for George to take his seat ¡°No need to be shouty, I¡¯ll tell you, well noteverything, but what you need to know¡±.


    The universe has been rolling around for a long time, he explained, and sometimes accidents happen.Mostly things run the way they¡¯re supposed to, but that one occasion, when someone helps an older man into a new life, and then doesn¡¯t lock the door behind him, so to speak. All sorts of things can overflow and merge into other things, and the time stopping episodes were just one symptom of what was going on.¡°Your cruise ship popping over for a visit was the culmination of that, but I¡¯m here to fix it.Like it never happened, on both worlds.¡± Elaith finished with a flourish.Will hurriedly held up a hand , Elaith smiled ¡°No, not fixing that part.It wasn¡¯t a mistake you coming here my friend, it was my mistake not closing the door, and locking it, putting on the chain, a chair under the knob.And then when that billionaire started playing around with magnets and rockets and cold fusion.He pried the door open a crack, just for billionth of a billionth of a picosecond.Long enough for this to happen.¡±.


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    As he was speaking the noise level was dropping, previously they could still hear shouting from the passenger area, now it was all quiet.Will stepped through the bushes around the river and saw the meadow was empty, no trace of anyone being here.He laughed and shook his head ¡°Well done my friend.¡±. Then he saw it was just him and Elaith at the table.¡°They are back where they belong.It was a mistake, but not all.Peter could have been like you.In one possibility he and Naomi built a boat, like the Rose, and travelled for hundreds of years, in another you and he were enemies hunting each other for eternity.Those never happened but could have, if he had wanted to stay, he chose not to.We had a good long talk about it this afternoon.¡±.


    Will had to admit he was immensely relieved that all the passengers had gone.Perhaps some of them were good people, probably many of them.But scared people are easily led into evil.¡°Could some of them have ever fitted in, become part of this world?¡± he asked.Elaith sighed ¡°No, they were not run of the mill people, these were all wealthy entitled persons.They wouldn¡¯t have settled for the simple life you have now, easy days fishing and catching shrimpies with Minnie and Naomi.They would have wanted more of everything until they had it all.¡±.The crew, some could have, but I talked with everyone and the decision was always to return.¡±.Will was a bit confused ¡°How on earth did you talk to everyone, there was nearly two thousand people on that ship.¡±.


    Elaith smiled his happy smile, it seemed to light up the meadow, looked around and beckoned Will to come close, ¡°A wizard did it.¡±, he whispered and laughed.A bark of laughter escaped from Wills mouth.Ah, I wish my wife was here, he thought.He was a bit startled when Elaith placed his hand on Wills chest, over his heart ¡°She¡¯s right here, she¡¯s always here Will.¡±.


    The light radiating from Elaith¡¯s smile grew until light was all he could see, it started fading, fading until he could see again.He was laying on his back on the deck of the Rose.Minnies and Naomi¡¯s worried faces looking down.They were kneeling beside him, Naomi was supporting his head on her lap.¡°Holy cow dad, you went down like a sack of flour¡­boom!¡±, said Minnie, she was crying in shock.He reached up and patted her arm.¡°You cracked your head on the deck pretty badly Will, how do you feel?¡± asked Naomi.To be honest he felt pretty good, bit of a sore head but it was going away fast.¡°I¡¯m okay, dunno what happened, just got lightheaded and maybe too hot.¡±, he started to stand and found his footing.Swayed a bit but that passed.


    He gathered Minnie into a close hug, rubbing her small back until her shoulders stopped shaking, ¡°It¡¯s okay, we¡¯re good.¡±Naomi was also pulled into a group hug, she was as upset as Minnie was.He had to reassure them that he was fine, no headache, yes he would like a cuppa. They sat for a minute.It had been shocking to see Will topple like a tree, but he was showing no side effects.


    The Rose was just steaming along at one quarter speed,no land in sight.Weather was fine and fair, hardly any wind and the lake was heaving two foot waves but no whitecaps.Will did a sounding and found bottom about fifty feet, so he dropped anchor as Minnie cut the throttle.They found purchase and were holding well.¡°Let¡¯s have an early dinner, I¡¯m mighty hungry today.¡±, said Will.Of course Minnie agreed being the bottomless pit that she was.¡°Oh yeah, let¡¯s barbecue those ribs we bought in Newton, and have some potatoes and carrots and peas all baked together, with butter, lots and lots of butter, and pie for afters, with that clotted yum cream, oh yes let¡¯s have an early dinner.¡±. And she rushed off to start the grill.¡°That¡¯s my girl.¡±, he laughed.Naomi was still beside him and looked a bit sad, he sat on the railing beside her.¡°What¡¯s the matter, can I do anything to help?¡± Will asked.She turned to him, tears in her eyes and on her cheeks, ¡°I never really knew my parents you know, they were gone when I was little.¡±, she sniffled a bit.Will searched for, and pulled out a handkerchief.She went on after a wipe, ¡°Seeing you and Min, how much you love her, and watch out for her.I don¡¯t think she knows how much you care.¡±.Shaking her head ¡°When I see you guys I just wish¡­.I just wish I had known my dad more, he would have been like you, wouldn¡¯t he?¡±.She dropped her face into her hands and sobbed, with loss and wishes that could never be.Minnie came back on deck and saw what was going on.She rushed over.


    ¡°What did you do dad, why is Naomi so upset, fix it, fix what you did!¡±, she yelled at Will.Naomi lifted her teary face, ¡°Will didn¡¯t do anything Min, I¡¯m just missing my parents, and my sister too.¡±.Minnie came and sat by her and looked up into her face ¡°But I¡¯m your sister, you¡¯re my family¡­you and dad¡±, she took Naomi¡¯s hand, ¡°The day we met you I knew, that you would be with me, love me like I love you, like family does.¡±.The raw emotion in her voice made Will so proud of his little¡­friend, daughter, companion, all of those.He reached out and held Minnie¡¯s hand and Naomi¡¯s ¡°I will never know your parents, but if they were anything like their little girls then they must have been wonderful.Regina is a good friend and has been a help to us since we got here.¡±, he had to clear his voice a bit.¡°But when you first came on board, you reminded me of my own daughter, and when you asked to stay I was overjoyed.I might not be the most emotional guy in the world, and I don¡¯t show my feelings too much.All that you are, what you do, what you bring to our odd little family, I want you to know that I love you like my child, a child of my heart.And if you..¡±.He was interrupted by first Naomi wrapping her arms around him and crying into his shirt, then Minnie hugging both of them.


    ¡°Geez dad, took you long enough to figure that out.¡±, Minnie said after a minute.Will gently flicked her ear ¡°Hey give me a break, I¡¯m old remember.¡±.Naomi had settled a bit, but laughed ¡°Your not that old, dad.¡±.When he heard that he was delighted and put his arm overher shoulder, Minnie was sitting on his other side, held close.


    Being on the Rose with his two most important people, life was pretty good.


    The Other World


    The Festival cruise ship Melody docked at the long windy quay at Cozumel with no problems.Passengers departed to visit bars and beaches, to find unique gifts and keepsakes.To go on excursions to see local wildlife or ruins.This was the huge ships first time here but over the next decades she would be here at least once a week.


    Captain Peter Jensen could rest now, the ship was docked and safe.She had performed wonderfully, meeting and exceeding all expectations.The passengers had been raving about all the amenities available, how spoiled they felt with the constant care from the crew.It made his job easier when there wasn¡¯t a constant litany of complaints to deal with.


    Life was pretty good.

 Continuing

    Chapter 3. Continuing


    The calendar here was weird, Will decided.The days of the week were not called what he was used to, here they had just been numbered; first, second , third and so on.He still thought of them as Monday and so on and had just continued to use what he was used to.This confused Naomi as it wasn¡¯t what she was used to either, but they were both coming around.Minnie didn¡¯t really care what day it was as long as there was bacon in the morning and biscuits at night.So on First morning, the day after leaving Newton, the crew woke up to brisker seas than when they went to sleep.


    An odd fact was that the lake never got, so far, over five hundred feet deep.That might change as they went on, their maps were becoming less and less useful.And they had only seen a very small part.There could be deep trenches or¡­he just didn¡¯t know.They hadn¡¯t travelled too far yet, anything could be waiting.Will had a theory but had only written it down, he hadn¡¯t mentioned it to the family yet.


    Family, what an odd thing had happened.When he came here he had been lonely.Not that he had been ignored by family but his children had moved to a remote part of the country.They had asked him to come with but that couldn¡¯t happen, he had been a bit set in his ways.But as they were out of area the only contact was phone calls once a week, maybe a video call once a month.They were both busy with kids, work, houses, life in general.He had become that forgotten part, that when it was gone you would miss it, and then get used to it not being around.Now he had two people that depended on him and that he depended on.Out of nowhere really, one brought with and the other waiting here.


    Coming here, a second chance at a very different life, he tried to think of Elaith at least once a day and thank him.If this was praying, well why not.If that peculiar person wasn¡¯t a deity he was darn close, so a prayer a day it was.


    ¡°What are you looking at dad?¡±, came Minnie¡¯s familiar voice beside him.Will started from where he had been standing at the railing, pondering.¡°Oh hey sweetie, just thinking deep thoughts.¡±, he replied.¡°Oh those are the best kind, mine usually involve food though, ribs like last night, shrimpies, crab if we ever find them, milk yummy foamy warm milk, yup that''s what I think about a lot.¡±, she said happily.


    Will had found a smaller dinner bell when they go had been shopping in Newton and mounted it outside the galley.He figured it would serve many purposes, but mainly to call everyone for dinner.At this moment the bell was ringing ¡°Oh right, Naomi sent me to fetch you for brekky, oops¡±, Minnie said a little shamefaced.Will glared at her ¡°Do you know what this means, it means I get your bacon.¡±, and he legged it as fast as he could down to the mess.Minnie still managed to get there first ¡°Haha jokes on you, just eggies and toast today, no bacon, Naomi said you¡¯re getting fat.¡±.A gasp came from the galley door, standing with a pile high plate of bacon was the girl herself ¡°I never said that, I said you would if you keep eating sweets too much.¡±.


    ¡°Nuh uh, you said it was dad getting fat.¡±.


    ¡°Did not, it was you that said that, that his pants don¡¯t fit.¡±.


    ¡°Well, your pants don¡¯t fit neither.¡±.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wear pants often, I¡¯m a lady.¡±.


    ¡°No, you¡¯re a pirate like us, gotta wear pants and a cool hat.¡±.


    ¡°I do like hats but they mess up my hair if I wear it for too long.¡±.


    ¡°Shave your head like dads, look a bit weird though¡±.¡±


    ¡°You go first, shave your head, look like an egg girl.¡±.


    Minnie burst out laughing ¡°Egg girl, good one, we¡¯ll be egg girls, me with ears and you with a hat.¡±.


    Will had calmly been eating his eggs and bacon while the bickering was happening.He knew it was all in fun and it was great to see Naomi confident to go at it with Minnie.As the others settled into breakfast Naomi asked ¡°What the plan for today?¡±.¡°Steaming along, keeping to that northern course and see what we see.¡±, answered Will.He too a sip of his tea and nearly choked.It was the best tea he had ever had in his life.¡°Wow, did we buy this in Newton, it¡¯s amazing.¡±.Naomi shook her head No, I found a container in the galley, be right back.¡±. And she stepped into the galley for a moment then came out with a box in her hands.About a foot square, made of a black wood that Will thought might be ebony.Thin silver bands ran across the surface that was so polished he could see his reflection.¡°I¡¯ve never seen that before, and we tore this boat apart a while ago looking for my bag.¡±.As he opened the lid the smell of the tea rose up, reminding him of something, that he couldn¡¯t quite grasp.¡°Maybe it just showed up¡±, said Minnie, ¡°That¡¯s happened before to us, the salve Naomi had, your bag, that trailer thing.¡±.Will had to agree, weird things had happened.Again he had to let it go, nothing he could do and it was amazing tea.¡°It¡¯s wonderful, but I¡¯ll save it for special occasions.¡±, he said sadly ¡°It won¡¯t last forever.¡±.But for now he was going to savour it.


    After their meal it was anchors up and full steam ahead.Again Will was obsessing about the weather, just a bit.It was early to middle September according to the old calendar, in this world it was mid harvest.He knew that the weather could change for the worse anytime now.There had been mild winters but there had also been some real howlers, sub zero for weeks, feet of snow.Quite horrible.There were signs of a harsh winter such as lots of acorns, thick skins on onions and corn husks, pigs gatheringsticks.These all might be folk tales but they were right sometimes.When Will was last in Newton he had seen a couple of these signs.So it might be a baddie coming up.So going north into the teeth of what might be a severe winter might not be smart.But they could always flee back to shelter at Laketown.So far so good though.


    The midday meal was an easy one and eaten on the bow area.The Rose was a strange combination of a hard working boat and their home.It was an odd thing for Will, the foreknowledge he had been given when he first bonded.The information was there but it took a fair bit of concentrating to access it, deep meditation was more like it.The specs of the boat were floating near the top of the well, if that made sense.Other details like captains and journeys, their life were deeper and deeper yet.So far he hadn¡¯t really delved too much into the history of everyone who had lived on this boat.Some captains lasted a few years, others a few months.Usually newcomers, but not always.He got the impression that this crew, this family was special.Had been arranged by someone or some chain of events to be the permanent crew, which suited him just fine.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Travelling on the water was a bit boring, decided Minnie, and proceeded to tell Will every detail of why.She like being the pilot and was excellent at that job, but staring out the wheelhouse window for eight hours at waves, yup that was boring.No land in sight just keeping the compass needle firmly north.¡°We gonna do this for a days and days, I¡¯ll go bonkers and take you with me.¡± Minnie threatened.¡°Nah,¡±, said Will ¡° We¡¯ll head for shore soon, at least in sight of it anyway.That way if there¡¯s another town or village, we¡¯ll find it.¡±.She looked relieved at the thought.¡°Do you think they¡¯ll want us to fish for them or get coal too?¡±, she asked.¡°Oh probably, that¡¯s kind of the role we play here, Newton went a bit nuts with building barges but I think they are going to expand fast.Maybe they¡¯re having a baby boom?¡± Will said.Instant regret, was all he felt then.Minnie¡¯s eyes seemed big as saucers, she got on the voice tube to the galley ¡°Naomi getup here, babies are going boom.¡± she yelled when her call was answered.Will sighed.


    Naomi came running up to the wheelhouse, she had apparently been making bread as she was slightly floury.¡°What in the world is happening now, babies blowing up?¡± she asked.Will sat down, this was going to be a long day.It had taken a couple hours, with tea and biscuit breaks, to explain to everyone¡¯s satisfaction.Laketown had never really boomed as a town.So the concept was unknown to Naomi, and everything was new to Min.


    There had been steady slow growth from separated farms over the years, people started settling in a central area and a town grew.This world was so different, no constant conflict driving people together then apart again.Cooperating was the way things were done, and no one seemed to be in much of a hurry.


    So steaming north, keeping the coast in sight and looking for signs of civilization became the game plan for the next week.Supplies were good, they had many weeks of food.Just nothing fresh much to Minnie¡¯s displeasure, but she perked up when Will had an idea.She was complaining about the lack of fresh meat one day at dinner, they we¡¯re having smoked ham.¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like ham, but I really like beef and pork, like ribs or steaks or chops or roasts and that thing that Naomi made the other day, with the fishies.¡±, she paused mid rant to stuff in a couple of pieces of bacon, washed them down with juice, grape this time, and then went on.¡°Those were good, fish sticks with the yummy crumbs on the outside then deep fried, and the other things the gravy, meat and taters with the crumbs and fried, those are wonderful.But I like fresh mostly.¡±.Will waited til she ran down and then made his suggestion.¡°What about a trip to shore and go hunting for fresh meat then?¡±.Naomi clapped her hands ¡° I never thought of that, I used to go with my sister for rabbits all the time, she had snares set up on trails around Laketown.Lots of people did..¡±.¡°Just rabbits?¡± Or deer too.¡±, Will asked.Minnie was fascinated ¡°You mean go out and actually kill a rabbit, then eat it, or a deer¡­isn¡¯t that cruel?¡±.Will had thought on this before mentioning it ¡°It would be cruel if we were doing it for fun, but we would use it to feed ourselves.Two or three rabbits would do for a meal, and from what I saw on our last coal trip, they¡¯re everywhere.¡±.Naomi nodded in agreement ¡°Rabbits are real pests for gardeners and the big farms around town.We have to put in deep fences and wire covers on vegetable gardens, and nearly everyone has traps set up.¡±.¡°And deer hunting, or moose, the bigger animals.Do people do that here?¡± Will continued.¡°There¡¯s a family of hunters that lives near Laketown and they hunt deer and tan the hide.Sell it to townsfolk, the meat and leather.Others hunt too, but not as much as in the past.¡±, Naomi said.


    ¡°But how do they get it, I mean we use fish hooks to get fishies and pots and nets for crabs, are there deer hooks too, and then pull them in?¡±, Minnie asked.Good question thought Will, he had wondered that too.¡°They use bows, same as our ancestors used for hundreds of years.My family had very old bows and when my parents passed Regina gave them to the church to display.Lots of people do that.¡±, Naomi shrugged, this wasjust tradition, everyone should know this stuff.¡°What¡¯s a bow¡­oh wait a minute, like in that story.Robin hook and Peter¡­something?, I was kinda sleepy when you were telling that one dad.¡± said Minnie.Will laughed ¡°Robin hoods the one with bows and arrows.¡±, he opened his notebook and sketched out a rough bow, Naomi snorted and took his pen and corrected his drawing.¡°There¡¯s two kinds we have always used, longbows and recurve bows.¡±, as she talked she drew out the two types, the curvedlongbow and the number three shaped recurve bow.¡°The recurve is smaller and easier to carry or use while riding, more powerful too, but the longbow is much easier to make.¡±.


    ¡°And it shoots arrows right.¡±, Minnie was getting excited by the idea of bows and arrows, ¡°Do we have one on board, can I try it,please please, let¡¯s find one.¡±.Will didn¡¯t think there were any on board but Naomi answered ¡°Sure, I have a couple in my cabin, I brought them with all my other stuff.¡±.Will didn¡¯t know whether to be happy or not, Minnie with a bow in hand, shooting arrows.Naomi teaching her, well at least it wasn¡¯t firearms .Not that he had anything against guns, hand or long rifles, but on a boat weapon safety could be a real issue.He did have a concern though.¡°And what about butchering, I have to admit I don¡¯t know much beyond the fact you have to do it.¡±.¡°What¡¯s butchering,¡± Minnie asked, still excited and prancing around the room firing an imaginary bow.¡°After you kill the animal you have to prepare it for eating, and certain parts you don¡¯t eat, so you have to cut them out.¡±, Naomi answered, ¡°My other uncle, not Stephen, uncle Kevin, he lives out of town.Deep in the bush, where the tanners are.And he showed me a few times what do do with a deer, but everyone knows about rabbits.They¡¯re easy.¡±.Minnie looked a bit icked out with the idea of pulling stuff out.¡°Same as with a fish sweetie, we don¡¯t eat the guts.¡±, Will reminded her.


    That cheered her up a bit.¡°Me and my friends would sometimes go bow fishing after school.Staying back from the water though, we were so terrified but thought we were so spiffy.We didn¡¯t realize everyone bow fished in the rivers, just not the lake.¡±, Naomi added.¡°We never caught anything though.¡±.Naomi the rebel, Will thought and then said ¡°We can¡¯t do that here on board, unless we go spear fishing while swimming¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°You mean jabby jabby the fishies under water, chasing them down, swimming?¡±.Will nodded ¡°Yup, exactly that.¡±.They other two looked thoughtful and he could see that had intrigued them both.


    Plans were made through the evening before chores and eventually bed.Naomi would teach Minnie and Will to shoot, start making snares, drawing and writing a guide on how to prepare the various animals.The tanning ofdeer hide was going to have to wait, she didn¡¯t really know that part.As for rabbit fur, it was the same.They just didn¡¯t know how to preserve it properly. ¡°For once you didn¡¯t know something dad, weird.¡±, Minnie remarked.Will laughed ¡°In our society you went shopping for meat at super centre, you could buy leather all prepared if you wanted to make stuff with it, but most didn¡¯t.And fur was banned in many countries, not where we came from though.¡±.


    ¡°What¡¯s a country?¡±, asked Naomi, ¡°And what¡¯s a grocery store?¡±: Minnie asked.Wills head hit the table with a clunk, it was going to be a long night.

 Bows on the Bow

    Chapter 4Bows on the Bow


    Minnie woke early the next day, when she looked out the port it was dark, very dark.Dad was still sleeping, that lazy guy so she hurried on deck, yup still dark.Scampering to the wheelhouse she checked the watch, it was only four thirty, a bit early to get up.She was sure excited to start using a bow, she hunted all the way to their cabin, got under the warm heavy quilt and was gone in moments.Will stirred, cold little feet were kicking at him and made him aware he needed the head.Returning he could see dim light outside but still mostly dark.Wondering why her feet were so cold he got back under cover and dropped off again.Next door Naomi stirred at the noises but was quite used to ignoring them, and she passed back to sleep.


    Ah dreams, aren¡¯t they wonderful.Things you are dealing with, coming to terms with, events in the past that affected you on levels you didn¡¯t even know you had.Stories you read, in Wills case there were moments in movies he had seen, tv shows that had decided to live in his brain forever.A phrase or paragraph from a favourite book rising up, to choose this moment to twist out and say hi.Let¡¯s think about everything you should have done, or said¡­maybe even not said.


    He had nothing specific, not structured dreams, that really never happened.But a few seconds of something that you¡¯re reliving.Years ago when Minnie broke her leash and chased off after a rabbit, the feeling as he ran after her, seeing her run away and out of sight.That lived on his memory, the feeling when he returned home and she was there waiting.The anger and fear instantly replaced with utter joy, picking her up, tiny face looking into his.So happy she had chased a rabbit.This memory was in his mind when he woke again, with a start, fading fast and gone.All he did was pat her sleeping form and get ready for the day, a quick look outside showed the same mild weather, so shorts and flip flops it was.


    A head check showed he was in need of a shaving so sharpening his straight razor he went to work.Quite practiced now, he was still aware of the danger of lopping off an ear if a big wave hit, but today was successful.A sleeveless shirt finished him off and he exited the cabin.Quietly shutting the door gave him an appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into the boat.Solid wood, brass screws and fittings, everything was polished and perfect.Patting the bulkhead he muttered ¡°Good morning¡± and headed to the galley.Dark and quiet, smelling of bread, tea, bacon, he lighted the lanterns and opened a porthole for fresh air, going back into the mess he did the same to get some cool air flowing through. Hot weather was not really a problem while at sea, it never got uncomfortable just pleasant and always much cooler at night.


    The galley stove was lit, just one of the two large wood burners.They usually used one or the other, never both unless there was a work crew onboard.Will preferred the one on the left, it had hot water jackets built in on the sides to provide a steady supply for the kitchen.The other did too, but the outlet was not as handy to get to, so the left one was it.Building the fire only took moments now and the kettle was filled and on the hob.Eggs were getting low so bacon, fry potatoes and toast were what he planned.


    He knew Naomi liked her galley a certain way but he still like to cook occasionally and had promised not to mess things up.Reminding her that she wasn¡¯t just the cook, or the cleaner,was ongoing but it seemed she was nearly ready to take the wheel of the Rose.It would be nice to have another person ready to pilot, especially when they were hauling barges.When the stove wood took and was burning nicely he took a turn on deck.Sunrise was later and later now,the days were shorter and soon there would only be a few hours of daylight.All was good on deck, no invasions of crabs overnight, anchors tight.And now for tea, no special today, just his regular blend.Taking his mug to the little office he wrote in ships log, just the day to day info.Course, estimated travel distance, coal burned, all those little details that would never be read by anyone.Then jotting down more ideas that had sprung into his head, which happened many times during the day.


    Making darts and a dartboard, he thought that would be an enjoyable crew game.Question was would Minnie need to use a stool to stand on throw, so she would be in line with the target.Hmm points to ponder.Like what was a dartboard made out of?Wood might be too hard. Then he remembered.It was either fibre like the ends of a broom all compressed together or cork.He knew cork was available in this world because of the bumpers and various floats and buoys they used, also from the few bottles of wine he had purchased last shopping trip. But cork might be a little hard to get now, where as bristles would be easier to source by themselves.


    That was one idea he had, another thought he had was ring hockey but Minnie was so small if she got checked hard it would be over the side for her.So that got written down but he had no plans for it.I have to talk to Naomi about skating or cross country skis, he thought.And wrote those ideas down as well.¡°Plotting are you, what is it this time hmm?¡±, the squeaky voice made him jump.¡°Are you trying to scare me half to death Min?¡±, he asked.¡°If we both did it, what would happen then?¡±, came a different voice.Apparently both Minnie and Naomi had sneaked up and were now giggling madly.¡°Well har de har har, morning to you too.¡±, he laughed.A morning hug all round and off to the galley.Minnie was happy to see that breakfast would be soon and Naomi was glad not to cook today.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    But before bacon was tea, of course.The kettle was warmed again and his fragrant yuck water, thanks Minnie, was ready.Now the large black iron pans were brought out and the potatoes and bacon started.Minnie picked herself off of the floor where she had pretended to pass out from hunger.Will laughed ¡°Drama queen, you¡¯ll live.¡±.¡°I¡¯m a queen, like the evil queen in SnowWhite?.¡± asked Minnie.¡°Maybe your just misguided, not evil.With the power of breakfast you¡¯ll become good.¡±, laughed Naomi.


    While food was cooking Will asked Naomi if she had ever heard of skating or skiing.After explaining what they were Naomi understood.¡°I¡¯ve heard of the skiing, but we call it gliding or skidding.Laketown doesn¡¯t get a lot of snow, just wet snow mostly. I¡¯ve not heard of the skating thing.¡±. ¡°Did people like being outside in the cold, playing and stuff?Will I like it dad?¡± Minnie asked.Will wasn¡¯t sure and said so ¡°Its up to you, some people do, some people don¡¯t.If a family does an activity together then it will probably be continued by the children and so on.¡±.¡°Did you ever go gliding or, what was it again?¡±. Minnie asked Will.¡°I used to do both, when I was younger but those days were long gone for me, I would like to try again though, lots of fun.¡±, Will replied.


    Naomi had gone quiet when he spoke, fiddled with her teacup for a minute.¡°You mentioned that before, you were younger, then got old and now young again,are we all going to stay young.¡±, she asked.Uh oh, thought Will, we never really discussed that.


    ¡°When Minnie and I arrived in this world, things were different for us both.Minnie was a dog, my pet, still my companion but limited.I was old, in my early seventies.We started changing, sometimes overnight when we slept, especially Minnie.The first few days, the first couple of weeks she grew so much.¡±. Will shook his head.¡°Then when I started accessing my menu I saw I was aging backwards.When I check it now it says I am 35, and the person who brought us here, a being called Elaith, said we would live a long long time.¡±.Minnie spoke up ¡°I hope you¡¯re the same Naomi, like me and dad, living here forever, no Ed¡¯s to bug you.¡±.What¡¯s an Ed, oh that guy Will remembered.¡°If you ever find someone that you want to be with¡­I don¡¯t know.They would be welcome here but you know how the lake effects everyone, even if they¡¯re around all three of us.¡±, he trailed off.¡°We will worry about that if it ever happens, right now I¡¯m happy just being here, with my little sister and my dad.¡±, Naomi said.Nothing for it but a group hug then.


    The day continued with more northward travel.The waves were not so friendly now, the skies a bit greyer.Will had calculated they usually travelled about seventy miles a day since the left Newton.If he was right and they were in some analog of British Columbia, and Laketown was the equivalent of fruit land, then they were well up the western coast nearing Alaska.In all the miles travelled so far there had been no signs of civilization.


    Even when the crew had gone ashore, searching for fresh water, there was no trace.Which wasn¡¯t really unusual given the uniqueness of the land, but it would have been nice to find something.Ruins to show people had been here, moved on or died out.Animals that should have been wary of humans weren¡¯t.An unspoiled land in every way.


    A bounding river had been found and barrels had been filled then trundled back to the Rose.Still had to be filtered and boiled, but that was routine now.Between filling barrels Naomi had shown Will and Minnie some archery basics.In all his years Will had never touched a bow before but it was coming along.It was very easy to draw the bow which helped with target practice.Never getting a tired arm was kind of cheating but that¡¯s just the way it was. Minnie was a good shot right away, something had just clicked into place with the way her eyes and muscles worked and she was hitting the targets every time.Will was getting there.Unfortunately the days were getting shorter and it was time to get back on board and get going again.Will didn¡¯t like the idea of being on shore after dark in an unknown area.As the last barrel was loaded on board, the dory lifted and locked, everything was ready to go.Minnie was in the wheelhouse and started them moving, just half speed so far and heading out to open water, north again.


    After all the usual chores were done they were relaxing in the wheelhouse as the rose steamed steadily along.They were enjoying tea and cake when a thought struck Minnie.¡°Why doesn¡¯t the lake effect the fishies, and whales and porpoises, make them want to go into the water?¡±, asked Minnie, then ¡°Oh wait a sec, that¡¯s not what I meant, why don¡¯t they go crazy too.¡±.Will shrugged ¡°For all we know they are crazy and we just don¡¯t know.¡±.Minnie went on ¡°Maybe one day they¡¯ll try to come out if the water and all come on land.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Lets hope the octopuses stay in the water though, I don¡¯t like those much.¡±.At that word Naomi perked up and asked ¡°What¡¯s that, the octopuses thing?¡±.Will opened his note book ¡°It¡¯s like a blob with a mouth and eight arms¡±, as he drew Minnie eyes were growing bigger and bigger.Naomi was drawing away in horror.¡°Those things live in the water?¡±, she said.Will nodded ¡°Yup,big ones, small ones, I¡¯ve heard of super big ones, size of Minnie.¡±.Hearing that Minnie was done ¡°I¡¯m never going in the water again, not if those things are in there, sharps are mean, floaters are tasty, whales are friendly but those things are just weird.¡±.


    ¡°It¡¯s too cold where we are now, for octopuses, so your safe here.Back by Laketown the waters much warmer, they¡¯re probably around there, lurking in the shallows and waiting for fresh MEAT!¡±, Will yelled and launched himself at Minnie and Naomi.Will the octopus was doing the chasing and catching of the tasty crewfish who were doing their best to escape.As usual Minnie was too quick to catch but when Will had caught and turned Naomi into an octopus she was finally cornered and turned as well.


    A quick dinner was enjoyed after anchoring for the night, hatches and portholes battened down.Fresh bread, ham and cheese being eaten while playing cribbage.Tea and cake finished things off later, it was quite late and it had been a long day.


    After an eight-armed handshake all around they went to their cabins for a good nights rest.

 Winter

    Chapter 5. Winter


    After waking up as humans and not octopuses was goodWill considered.They had anchored off shore the previous night and he could feel that the weather was still fair.The boat would be heaving much more if there was a change but it was still a gentle rocking.His usual routine of dressing and slipping out to start the day only took a few minutes, and he was in the corridor without waking Minnie.He loved her so and seeing her sleeping peacefully made him happy.Intending to go to the galley but he stopped by the stairs to the deck.They had taken to closing both top and bottom now to keep cooler air out and something had made him pause.Not sure what it was he continued to the galley for his morning tea.Hopefully the embers of last night were still hot but no, he had to start anew.There was always a good supply of wood and kindling though, and there were several cords kept in one of the holds.


    Something still felt off so while the kettle boiled he headed up to the deck.Opening the bottom doors brought a rush of chilly air, oh oh he thought.He opened one of the closets inside the stairwell and pulled out a warm jacket.Throwing it on he pushed on the upper doors, heavier than usual, he knew what that meant.Pushing a little harder the doors flung back and revealed an unexpected sight.Apparently a snow storm had blown through the night before and dumped a few inches of snow on the Rose.Sounds were muffled because of this, and the sun still low, the only light was from their deck lantern.It¡¯s warm yellow light showed the snow in low drifts across the deck.It was a pretty magical sight.Snow piled on the railing like icing on a cake, the usually polished deck covered, the bench¡¯s disguised as ice blocks.He had to wake Minnie.But first to make a snowball to take with him.


    She was still sleeping but he didn¡¯t want her to sleep through this.It would melt fast enough soon.¡°Hey you, wakey wakey, eggs and bakey.¡±, he called out coming in to the warm cabin.A sleepy eye opened ¡°Why, why so early dad, I¡¯m so nice and warm, dreamed of milk.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Something special happened, look at this.¡±, and he held out the snowball to her.Her sleepy eyes now opened wide and she reached out to take it in her little hand.¡°A snowball, is that a snowball, did it snow last night, can I throw this at Naomi?¡±, she asked.Also jumping out of bed, quickly going to the head band throwing on clothes.¡°Dress warmly, it¡¯s chilly out.¡±, Will said, changing his shorts to longer wool pants and a thick jumper.And, he shuddered at the thought, socks.¡°I hate socks.¡±, he said.¡°Why¡¯s that dad, they keep my feet warm and toasty, and stop my boots from rubbing my toeses.¡±, Minnie asked.¡°I just don¡¯t like them, make my feet tight.¡±, Will answered.But both were dressed warmly so out they went.¡°Should we wake up Naomi and throw snowballs at her?¡±, Minnie asked.Will laughed ¡°Lets bang on her door and find out.¡±.The only answer from Naomi was a muffled ¡°No thanks.¡±, so it was just the two of them. They quietly walked up to the stairway and put coats and boots on, then went up.


    Minnie¡¯s eyes went wide as she saw the snow covering the boat and she galloped off.Kicking and sliding as she ran through the snow.Will helped by tossing snowballs at her which she threw back while laughing happily.The sun had started to rise higher in the sky now and the snow was melting away as they played.After a while it was all gone and it was just wet now, but still chilly.They were soaked through and shivering but Minnie was ecstatic.¡°I¡¯ve seen snow dad, got you a good one with a snowball too, that was so much fun, let¡¯s do it again huh?¡±, she laughed.¡°Oh yeah, every time we can sweetie, every time.¡± he promised.


    The lure of warmth below was too strong and down they went for dry clothes and a warm meal and hot tea.Will was tempted by the comfy looking bed and was soon lying under the soft heavy covers, a chilly Minnie snuggled upbeside him.¡°We gonna sleep all day, cause that would be nice, lay here and wake up and then sleep some more, eat in bed, then sleep all night.¡±. she murmured.That was all Will heard before he was gone.


    They woke a second time when Naomi knocked on the door and hollered Breakfast¡¯s ready!¡±.With much stretching and moaning they got up and dressed again.Warm clothes at the start this time, it looked like shorts weather was over for a while.It was still early but not horribly so like before, at least the sun was up now.The boat sounded normal as the snow was gone, the usual creaks and knocking noises were sharper and clearer.The smell of breakfast had dragged Minnie to the galley but Will went on deck first.


    There was no trace of the early morning snow and the deck was mostly dry, the day was very clear and fresh.Sun well risen and a few high grey and white clouds.To the north the clouds were heavier but that wasn¡¯t going to change their minds.This was only the beginning he thought.He turned off the deck lantern and headed down to the galley.


    He was greeted with Minnies happy voice ¡°Hey dad, finally decided to join us huh.¡±.He laughed ¡°Yeah I was just on deck¡­¡±, ¡°Checking the weather.¡±, chorused Minnie and Naomi.Will just snorted and poured a cuppa, ¡°You¡¯ll be sorry when there¡¯s six feet of snow on deck and we¡¯re stuck in a snowdrift.¡±.Taking a sip of tea, he started filling his plate with potatoes and bacon.One of his favourite meals, mind you just about everything made on the boat was his favourite meal.It was weird how that worked out.Minnie was talking about how much fun the snow was this morning, when it was going to snow again, and could they build a snowman next time.It was heartwarming to see how the smallest things made her happy.¡°I think it¡¯s going to snow a lot from now on Minnie, if you want we could make a snowdad, and throw lots of snowballs.¡±, said Naomi.¡°Nice, thanks kid.Didn¡¯t want to see first snow today?¡±, Will asked.¡°No, too wet and my bed was so warm¡±, Naomi replied.¡°Yeah, ours too, we went back for a nice snoozy.¡±said Minnie.


    After everyone had eaten their fill it was time to get cracking on.Filling the coal bunkers, shovelling in enough to get the boiler going and waiting on pressure to build.Cranking in the anchors and checking that the boat was fully ready to go took just a short while.In the wheelhouse Minnie was showing Naomi how to con the Rose.Will was glad that she was confident enough to finally give this a shot.And it would be nice to have someone else to stand a watch if they needed.From the look of the stacks the boiler was heating nicely, black wisps rising up and the smell of burning coal was stronger. Minnie stuck her head out and asked ¡°Hey you guy, we good to go?¡±.¡°You bet Min, let¡¯s go.¡±,Will called back.He felt the Rose surge forward, bow lifting as the stern lowered.Prop churning the blue water and leaving a wake that could be seen for miles.


    All three crew were standing on the bow as they steamed along, grey overcast skies and blue water.It had been two weeks since leaving Newton and they had found nothing.Well, not nothing, but no sign of people.Will had steered the boat closer to shore and the land was magnificent.The usual shoals of ore were absent here, but there was the occasional line of black coal showing.Huge spruce trees crowded near to the water with just a few yards of a rocky beach showing.Covered with driftwood and dried lake weeds that had washed up from past storms.Miles back from shore you could make out the high cliffs that were always present, separating inland from lake side.Here though the cliffs were getting much higher, nearly mountains.Snow topped and grey.Living here would be a challenge, he did not hold much hope of finding villages.


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    The days passed, continually heading northward.Ten hours of steaming ahead then anchoring for the night.Each day there was more and more snow being dumped on them.Many snowmen had been built, many snowballs had been thrown.Much more snow had been shovelled and swept off the deck.That had become an early morning chore, in fact so much snow had starting falling overnight that there was a problem.The main steps to belowdecks usually were covered with flat doors to prevent water getting in.And it was easy enough to just push these open from below during normal weather.With three feet of snow, that was a different story.Thick wet snow, turning to ice, then more wet snow on top of that.After being frozen in a couple of times Will started planning.A shed like structure over the hatch to belowdecks, doors opening to the aft.It hadn¡¯t taken long to plan and build.Minnie helped by pelting Will with snowballs when he wasn¡¯t looking.He had to enlist Naomi as protection.Luckily it only took him a few hours and it was done.It wasn¡¯t the prettiest work but it would serve the purpose..


    The landscape was changing.Becoming more and more uninhabitable and unwelcoming, the trees were thinning. Just long sweeping valleys of scrub land.They had gone ashore a couple of times, to set up some snares for rabbit.Didn¡¯t catch anything, this was desolate land.It was very cold now, the wind tore along the land finding every hole in their clothes.Not too much snow, but there were some high drifts against the few trees showing there had been some bad weather before they got here.


    Supplies were still good but fresh goods were being missed.Mostly milk,¡°Yeah.¡±, said Minnie, looking over Wills shoulder as he wrote the log, ¡°I miss that the most.¡±.Will nodded, ¡°I know, pretty soon.We¡¯re not having much luck finding anyone this way, I think it¡¯s time to head back.¡±.


    Naomi was at the wheel, keeping an eye out as Minnie and Will entered the wheelhouse.¡°Oh oh, what¡¯s going on?¡±, she asked. Minnie answered first ¡°We¡¯re heading back, dad figured out that no one lives here and it¡¯s time to go home.¡±.Hearing this Naomi cheered up visibly, ¡°It¡¯s pretty quiet this far, I¡¯ll be glad to go south again.¡±.¡°Me too, snows fun, but it¡¯s too cold, no one¡¯s around, let¡¯s go.¡±.Will agreed ¡°Well now we know, turn us around Naomi, south for a few days then west.¡±.The Rose surged ahead and began to make a wide swinging turn away from land.Minnie was pulling on the steam whistle and yelling out of the window ¡°Goodbye north, it¡¯s been fun.¡±.


    It was odd but when he heard the whistle there was a feeling he had been this way before, ¡°Hold on Naomi, keep her straight for a little while.¡±.¡°What¡¯s up dad?¡±, Minnie asked.He patted her shoulder ¡°Got a feeling, I have to sit for a bit and get into the deep memories, the ones I received when I got this.¡±, he held up his right hand to show the rose tattoo.As he did Minnie showed hers, reaching up to hold his hand.They both bowed their heads and closed their eyes.


    Around a far point on the coast, about three miles further on from where the Rose was turning, was a small bay.A protected little area surrounded by trees, was a small village.Consisting of a few earthen mounds, leading to dwellings below ground.Tunnels cut into the frozen ground going deep down into the soft limestone below.Chimneys and ventilation had been carved through the rock and barely showed above ground.The wind was from lake ward today and was blowing all the smoke in toward land.The mounds surrounding the entrances to these Burroughs were the leftovers from the digging.


    Here lived the people called, oddly enough, the burrowers.Subsiding on shore gathering of float weed, hunting and fishing in the wild rivers further inland.As a people they had lived in this manner of life for hundreds of years.Communal life, eating as one huge family, each with their roles.A rich oral history passed down to each new generation.


    Over the years a boat, the heartboat had stopped by infrequently to trade for furs and unique carvings of driftwood and antlers from the herds of elk and reindeer that migrated far inland. Trading oils, iron tools and copper pans and such, and glass products.This boat only came a few times over the years, but when it did it was an occasion for a great festival.The only warning that it was coming was the shriek of the whistle in the distance. It was always the same boat, but never the same captain and crew.When the whistle was heard the great fire on the high point had to be lit.


    Today the Obb family had been out, checking traps and gathering firewood from the far forests.A two day trip but they had been successful, three sleds stacked high with logs and one with furs from previous trips and some meat.


    The mother and father were starting the sleds off and their grown sons were pulling them across the wind smoothed snow.Their twin daughters, around the age of eight, were helping with everything.Picking up the wood that dropped, throwing snowballs at the brothers, the usual stuff.¡°If I get one more snowball down my back I¡¯m gonna eat you for supper!¡±, threatened Tor, the eldest son.His little sisters, Uma and Oona, ran off laughing, to get to the next sled.The second eldestbrother, Din, held up a giant snowball, saying nothing.The two girls tried the last sled pulled by the youngest brother, Cal.He might have been youngest but he was the largest by far.He easily pulled his sled of firewood, and as the twins approached he lifted them to his hulking shoulders for a ride.


    There was no sound but the hiss of runners on snow and grunts of exertion from the men pulling. Katya and Therd were watching their children and smiling.A very close family with older members waiting at the burrows for their return.They were walking beside the sleds lending a hand on up slopes, pulling back on downs, keeping a watchful eye on all the children.There weren¡¯t any predators that were a threat to them, but the snow could be dangerous.Deep crevasses covered with a thin layer of snow and ice, when crossing rivers the ice could be rotten.


    They were nearing the village when Therd held his hand up, ¡°Hold it here boys, quiet down all of you.¡±.The children stopped as quick as they could, sleds creaking to a stop.The twins stood beside Katya but didn¡¯t speak, they knew when to listen.After a few seconds the sound came again, the high shriek of a steam whistle, far away but coming closer it seemed.With a start Katya realized what it was ¡°The signal fire, we have to light the fire or they¡¯ll miss us.¡±, she said urgently.Therd started strapping on his gliders, ¡°Tor, your in charge, get this to the village as fast as you can, we¡¯re going to light the fire.Pray we make it in time.¡±,Katya had her glides on already and the two were stroking away on the direction of the huge fire pit.¡°Girls, listen to your brothers, no mischief.¡±, she called over her shoulder.


    Will woke with a start, Minnie was sitting on his crossed legs, head buried on his chest.She blinked at him with sleepy eyes ¡°That was weird dad, it¡¯s like we were someone else for a minute.¡±.Resting a hand on his little friends shoulder ¡°Yeah it was, I don¡¯t like to do that very much.I feel like I¡¯m losing myself in memories.¡±.Naomi was still holding steady on the same course, ¡°Are you all right, you just went away, the two of you just sitting.¡±.Will carefully lifted Minnie to her feet then stood himself.¡°Sorry to worry you sweetie, we were, well it¡¯s hard to describe where we were.¡±.Naomi¡¯s face brightened as Will addressed her ¡°I was just scared dad, I was feeling alone.¡±.


    ¡°Well we¡¯re not as alone as we thought¡±, Will said ¡°Maybe.¡±.Minnie was drinking a cup of warmed apple juice ¡°Why maybe?¡±. Will explained ¡°There has been contact with a people up here, a few times.But many years ago and years between.There¡¯s a sign that shows they¡¯re still here, keep an eye out.¡±.Telling Naomi and Min he needed a minute Will went below for a pot of tea, he also needed to get the other peoples memories out of his head.Familiar surroundings helped, doing familiar things, after making tea he returned to the wheelhouse.


    The Rose was steaming on, nearer to the coast when they saw it, a huge bonfire lighted on a hill above the lake.¡°Lemme guess dad, that¡¯s where we¡¯re going?¡±, asked Minnie.

 Memories of the Past

    Chapter 6. Memories of the Past


    The signal light was ahead on the coast, a few miles away though.Minnie laid on the steam whistle and the foghorn to let the people there that the Rose had seen them.It was too late tonight and too cold for first contact, Will laughed when he said that.So the plan was to anchor as usual and hit the beach tomorrow.But before dinner, before cards and before sleep, there was something to do.Something that all three of them had just let slip out of their mind, busy days and plans had just made them forget.


    Throttle in off position, the boiler was left on to supply water to the radiator system and anchored securely.Minnie and Naomi were about to go below when Will called out.¡°Hold up a second guys.My memory got jogged a little while ago, about something important.Help me lower the dory Min.¡±.Putting the boat in the water took a few minutes and then, ¡°Jump in guys.¡±, Will stepped in the little boat followed by Minnie and Naomi.He pulled it to where the boarding steps were and where the large wooden rose had been carved into the side of the boat.


    ¡°When I first touched this I was accepted as captain, Minnie was with me and she became first mate, and her change was faster, I think she became who she is because of this boat, our boat and home.¡±.He took Naomi¡¯s hand in his own larger one, ¡°Daughter of my heart, touch the rose and see what we have.¡±. Naomi looked at his caring face, felt Minnie¡¯s hand on her shoulder.Thoughts ran through her mind, what if I¡¯m not accepted, would they throw me off¡­ ¡°Wouldn¡¯t happen, you¡¯re stuck with us as long as you want to be.¡± Will said.Decision made she reached up to the incredibly detailed rose and pressed her hand to it.


    Loss, the pain of being alone, abandoned, half of a soul torn away, companionship, love, absolute love, never alone again, finding family, growing whole again, all this flashed through Naomi¡¯s mind as her hand touched.Every detail of the Rose, back to when she was a sail ship, past that to when she was a rowed longboat, back to the felling of the only heartwood tree to ever grow.These must be the deep memories that Will and Minnie had looked into.There was more, the voyages, the captains,crews, laughing young faces growing old and becoming land bound.As it became nearly more than she could bear she woke, cradled by Will.¡°Look at your hand¡±, came Minnie¡¯s voice, serious for once.Her hand tingled like it was too cold, radiating from her palm and covering the entire surface, even the sides of the fingers there was a rose, mostly black but red highlights seemed to come and go in the depths and lines.¡°Now we are truly linked, forever.¡±, Will said ¡°Welcome aboard.¡±.She burst into happy tears, the loss of her parents had been hard.Regina had raised her as best she could and had done the best she could.But there was always a missing part, that connection to the past. Now she had that and so much more.The rich history of the heartboat had been given and shared with her.Wills and Minnie¡¯s memories were there too, being the newest.And somehow she knew they would be the last crew of this boat, this wonderful boat sailing the seemingly endless lake.


    After this emotional ride, they took a minute floating in the dory, no need for talking.Then the cold started leaching in and it was time to get back on board and have a meal and a cuppa, probably not in that order though.Will was going to cook tonight, a favourite of his, bubble and squeak.¡°Bubble and what?¡±, asked Minnie.Laughing he explained ¡°That¡¯s what my mother called it, it all bubbles together in a big fry pan, and sometimes it squeaks too.¡±.Weird thought Minnie.But when it started cooking, the potatoes, carrots, ham bits and cabbage, it smelled great.Naomi had taken a while to bathe and change, so Minnie left Will to his creation and did the same.


    There was much complaining whenever his little friend took a bath, mostly about the awful state her fur was in after.¡°You were always like this.¡±, he yelled down the companionway, ¡°Whenever I mentioned bath time youwould hide on moms lap.¡±.As he flipped the dinner in the pan he had started some bread slices sizzling in another, fried with cheese on top.¡°Yup, made me feel awful but you loved running into water.¡±, he continued, ¡°River or lake, didn¡¯t matter, you loved it.And then the brushing.¡±.He grated cheese onto the frying bread, set the bubble and squeak to the side of the hob.¡°That part was particularly fun but it always got done.Sure glad you can do it yourself now.¡±.Taking plates and silverware he set the table in the galley.Only one now, bolted to the deck in case of rough weather.The large room seemed smaller and cosy from the warm light of the safety lantern.Returning to the galley for salt and pepper he took a minute to miss ketchup again.¡°One day I¡¯ll try again, but not until summer¡±¡¯ he muttered.


    ¡°What you on about dad.¡±, Minnie asked as she came in, ¡°Ooh something smells good, dinner time?¡±.¡°Nuh uh, gotta wait for Naomi.¡±, he laughed, fending her off from the galley.With a pout Min sat in her chair and continued to fuss with her ears, ¡°Fine then.¡±.Back to the galley for glasses and a jug of juice, and his teapot.Sitting and pouring a tea Will absently took one of Minnie¡¯s brush¡¯s and started helping with the back of her head and ears.She leaned into him ¡°Thanks dad, I love my fur, especially when it¡¯s cold but I think I¡¯m growing more lately, was staying nice and short then boom, it¡¯s everywhere and longer and thicker, driving me nuts.¡±.Naomi came in then looking much refreshed, ¡°What¡¯s driving you nuts, what did dad do.¡±.Minnie snickered ¡°Well he did stop me from eating all the dinner like a meanie.¡±.Will interrupted with a laugh ¡°Complaining about too much fur, it¡¯s just her winter coat growing in.¡±.Putting the brush back in its special case, patting Minnie on her shoulder ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±.He returned to the galley and brought the two large pans in and set them on the trivets.


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    Dinner was devoured in short order and for afters Will had mixed up a nice sticky molasses gingerbread.Very easy to make but quite delicious, Minnie had two pieces and was sighing longingly at the still half full pan.¡°It will still be there later, have a piece while we playing cards, or for breakfast.¡±, Will told her.¡°I know, but it¡¯s just there, looking at me, saying ¡®Minnie come eat me, I¡¯m tasty¡¯, but if I eat anymore I might pop.¡±, she sighed.Naomi laughed and made a show of reaching toward the cake and taking a small piece for herself.But she did break off a forkful and shared with Min.A few games of cribbage were enjoyed, no real clear winner for the night but no one cared.Just having fun.Will bowed out to write in his log for a while.Recording todays events like the deep memory dive, Naomi being accepted by the Rose, seeing a signal fire.


    The temperature was dropping fast and being this close to shore the blizzard that had just blown down from the north was going to be a bad one.The boat was snugged down and safe but was getting a real dump of snow.Already eight inches on deck and building, the deck lantern on and throwing it¡¯s light across the midship of the boat.The howl of the wind was blowing across the Rose causing her to rock at anchor.Not too harshly yet but there was a promise of much more to come.Inside, the cabins were warm but Will was filling hot water bottles for their beds, placed down by his feet and higher for Minnie¡¯s, two more for Naomi¡¯s and hopefully a warm toasty bed would be waiting.If that wasn¡¯t enough then it would be the dreaded bed socks and long johns, he was pretty sure he had some in the cabin but yuck.After these chores he went back to the mess for a final cuppa and perhaps another piece of gingerbread, if any was left.He found Minnie and Naomi half asleep in the galley, sitting by the still warm wood stove.His kettle wasn¡¯thot enough for tea so he built up the fire and told the sleepys ¡°I¡¯m going on deck for a last check, from the porthole it looks bad but I like to see more.¡±, ¡°Do you want us to come too dad, won¡¯t take but a minute for us to get ready .¡±, Minnie asked. ¡°Sure would, more company the better.¡± Will said.


    The three trooped over to the stairs and shivered when the doors were opened.A blast of cold air was coming down, even through another set of doors up top.¡°I¡¯m just going to wear my long jacket, and huddle by the stairs, it¡¯s gonna be horrible.¡±, griped Minnie.Naomi nodded ¡°Me too, I¡¯m just here to give support.¡±.Will laughed and threw his own long jacket and boots on, ¡°Ready?¡±, and the started up the stairs closing the lower doors.Minnie was holding a lantern and it cast shadows across their faces, changing and shaping them to strangers.The upper doors, in the stair shed, were hard to push open because of a drift across the bottom half.Easy to force open but tomorrow would be worse.


    The deck of the boat was nearly unrecognizable, drifts of snow had built up against every side.In some places three or four feet deep.Will slogged to the bow and checked the anchors and the wheelhouse doors, all good.¡°Hey you guy, don¡¯t get lost out there.¡±, came Minnies voice from midships.As if I could get lost on my own boat, thought Will, and promptly tripped over the forward hatch cover that had apparently moved over night.Sighing he silently told the boat ¡°We won¡¯t tell anyone about this, okay.¡±.Calling out ¡°Hey lift that light up a bit.¡±.A shivering arm poked out of the stairwell, holding the light up a little higher.Enough to see a bit better by and he walked back through his tracks.¡°We¡¯re all good, let¡¯s get below before there¡¯s three snowmen up here.¡±, he shivered out.Going back down Minnie was muttering ¡°If it¡¯s like this tomorrow morning I¡¯m not getting up.¡±.¡°Oh yeah, we¡¯ll stay in bed all winter, like bears and wake up in the spring for breakfast.¡±, Naomi shivered out.


    Closing off the winter world and hanging their coats to dry in the warm engine room Will gave his shoulders a stretch and was deciding on more tea or just bed.All the lanterns were out in the galley and mess so that decision was made for him.Dim light from Naomi¡¯s cabin showed the two sitting on her bed talking quietly, he waved a goodnight in passing and went into his own.The hot water bottles had done their job and the big bed was warm for his chilly feet.They had taken to wearing thick felt slippers inside which helped but it was getting very cold outside and there wasn¡¯t much insulation.The hull was four inches of heartwood but if he rested his hand the cold was leaching in.Hmm thought Will, insulation.What could I do for insulation, maybe straw and a sub wall, or wool.There were enough sheep near Laketown to wrap the Rose in wool.Newspapers shredded enough would work, but what a project that would be.Minnie came in while he was just sitting up in bed, writing ideas down.¡°Hey dad me and Naomi were just yapping about snow drifts and cakes, we¡¯re having pancakes for breakfast but no eggs, fried ham and oh oh what you thinking about, I know that face.¡±, she said.Will smiled at her ¡°Nothing much, just a project to keep us warmer.¡±.Minnie snorted ¡°I know an easy way to do that, turn us around and go south.¡±.Well he couldn¡¯t argue with that.


    Getting ready for slumber took a few minutes, teeth and ears to brush, long warm pyjamas.Will slipped in the warm sheets and Minnie cuddled beside him.His last thought was of pyjamas with feet, hmmm.


    When they woke it was a new world.Still warm thanks to the radiators and the crackling boiler but something was off.Will felt he had been sleeping for a good eight hours and it should be light out, but nothing was coming in the portholes.Minnie and Naomi were still asleep,he had to check on deck, even before tea.This time it was full winter gear, thick insulated coveralls, heavy boots, hat and gloves, and a scarf over his lower face.Opening the lower stairs, he closed behind him and climbed the few stairs to the main deck.The shed doors were not opening easily at all, as he pushed the wood was creaking with his efforts.Using more and more of his strength the doors finally cracked apart revealing a six foot drift of wind blown snow.Hard as rock from the harsh winds.Continuing to push and kick the doors he was finally outside.¡°Yup, should have turned south yesterday.¡±, he said into the wind.

 Welcome to Wonderland

    Chapter 7. Welcome to Wonderland


    The boat was covered with snow, six to eight feet deep.Where the wheelhouse used to be was a sixteen foot pile.So hard from the wind that you could nearly stand on the surface.Every surface caked in snow and ice, the dory was just a lump of ice hanging from the chains.The snow had stopped falling but the wind hadn¡¯t let up an inch, still howling through and over him.Will estimated the temperature at around minus 20, adding windchill to that it was more like minus 40.This was too much for them and they had to get moving to more protection, hopefully they could find a harbour or cove near.First though he had to clear the decks.There were scoop shovels in the stair shed and he put one to use right away.It hurt to scrape the decks but the snow had to go, and over the side it went at a great rate.Digging and hurling great blocks over the side, shaking the dory until the clogs of ice broke off the chains and davits.Clearing a path to the wheelhouse and bow took at least thirty minutes of furious shovelling.He took great pleasure in banging around over top of his and Minnie cabin, and Naomi¡¯s.Shovelling his way back he was greeted by a snowball to the head, courtesy of Minnie¡¯s outstanding aim.¡°Holy moly dad, this is a lot of snow.¡±, she was dressed in her coveralls as well as hat boots, the whole arctic gear.


    She, in turn was smacked by a snowball hurled by Naomi, also dressed for the winter.They huddled in the stair shed for a minute.¡°I didn¡¯t really mean to wake you guys, but wow, this snow is crazy.¡±, Will puffed out.¡°Yeah we know, and we would have been up sooner but we started the stove for brekky.¡±, Minnie answered.Naomi shivered and said ¡°Let¡¯s get this done, I am beginning to freeze, warmer if we¡¯re shovelling.¡±.They got back to work and with all three the decks were soon cleared.After checking the wheelhouse and finding it snug and, well not warm, but liveable.Will checked the radiator and found it was turned to low, ¡®Oops.¡¯, he thought, and cranked it open to full.It creaked and popped but the difference was noticeable right away.The boat safe again, it was time for a break.Going back down to the warm mess was heavenly as was the kettle that had freshly boiled, pouring a steaming cuppa was was even better.


    Minnie and Naomi were drinking warmed juice, apple and grape.Breakfast of the promised pancakes and ham had been started, everything was good for now.There were plans to make for the day but step one was get moving and find shelter.¡°I don¡¯t want the first pancake dad, it¡¯s always the weird one.¡±, Minnie said.¡°My pancakes are not weird Minnie.¡±, Naomi said, setting a large stack on the table, Will brought in the fried ham and more tea.They settled to their regular seats and dived in, Will speared the top three pancakes and so on down the stack until the bottom was revealed.¡°Okay, the first is a bit weird.¡±, laughed Naomi.The poor thing was still devoured and appreciated though.Through breakfast the goals were finalized.If they could find safe harbour they were going to make contact with whom ever started the signal fire.But if not they would have to head back south, this weather was too much.Will wasn¡¯t sure if the lake would freeze this far north, but it was likely.Being salt water it would freeze at a warmer temp and being frozen in ice for months was not happening.¡°We will just have to play it by ear.¡±, Will said.To his surprise he didn¡¯t have to explain.


    Cleaning up after didn¡¯t take long and soon they were redressed in the winter gear.It was easier to get on deck now, but some drifts had reformed under the relentless wind.Minnie was in the wheelhouse, Will and Naomi were cranking up the anchors.The chains were crusted in ice and rime, necessitating hammering them clear before the windlasses would hold them.While doing this the sky was grey and completely clouded in.Seeing your breath was pretty normal for Will, he had lived in a very cold country.But for Naomi it was new, ¡°I never knew it could be like this, a couple of cold days now and then.¡±, she shivered.¡°It helps to keep moving, but not too much, if you start sweating under all this it will be worse.¡±, Will said.¡°It¡¯s just my face gets coldest, and my feet, I think I need bigger boots to hold more socks.¡± she answered.¡°There¡¯s a few extra in storage below, left over from before us, we¡¯ll have a look later.¡±, he added.That was agreeable to Naomi, and they pressed on with the anchors.


    It was finally done and Will signalled Minnie to start moving.With a toot of the whistle they surged ahead, bow on to the cold north wind.Will and Naomi hurried to the wheelhouse for a warmup.¡°Chilly out there is it?¡±, Minnie asked as the entered with a bang, and a quick door close.¡°Yeah, just a little.¡±, said Naomi, tossing a handful of snow at Minnie.With a squawk of indignation she nearly fell off her stand at the wheel.¡°Not fair, I don¡¯t have any to throw back.¡±, she laughed.Will gestured at the door ¡°Feel free to go get some.¡±.¡°Nah, you win this time Naomi, I¡¯m never going out there.¡±, she said happily.They had brought up an insulated teapot and juice jug so the next step was a cuppa while they travelled on to where they had seen the fire sign.


    At the village the Obbs were all waking in their underground dwellings.Digging down deep in the soft limestone they were well beyond the frost line.Blankets hung at every door to prevent heat escaping to the surface and to stop cold air tunnelling down.It was very easy to create more space simply by digging out whatever size room you need.It hadalso happenedfor a neighbour to dig into another¡¯s dwelling space, but not too often anymore.The population was shrinking, old ones passing and not enough children coming into the world.There had been meetings but there wasn¡¯t a lot of advice except for ¡°Have more children.¡±.Times had been hard and the reindeer herds that fed and clothed people had migrated south, to milder climes.Then the earth had cracked, a great turmoil a few weeks ago.The herds had been trapped south of the disaster. There was much talk of doing the same, relocating the same as the reindeer.But how, the land was impassable now.As usual there were this who wanted to and those who didn¡¯t.


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    ¡°Well I think we should go, I¡¯m tired of the cold and nothing to eat.¡±, complained Uma to her sister.¡°Me too, let¡¯s tell ma it¡¯s decided then, we¡¯re leaving.¡±, agreed Oona.They were sitting by the clay cook stove, on a woven float weed mat.Playing with carved wooden dolls, reindeer, even a wooden boat.These toys were handed down to each child from the olders as they were outgrown.Their older brothers were out, looking for rabbits in the family snare line, hopefully there would be some today.There was still some smoked river fish, and reindeer meat, smoked as well, it was getting lean though.


    Therd could hear his girls talking and laughing, being cold and hungry wasn¡¯t new though.This winter had started early and before they were prepared. There were tuber fields, growing fast and fat in the short grow season.These would be harvested by all the village and distributed as required.Not this year, the snow had come far earlier than usual, and much harsher.In the past there were other villages, a line up and down the coast, but no more.All the people had eventually come to this one, the last of them all.Nearly four hundred people, and not enough food for all.He drew his hands over his face, looked at his wife of many years.


    Katya was cooking what little they had into a stew, warm and filling but it wouldn¡¯t last too long. Their big lads would be home soon, hungry from the hunt.At that thought, Tor came rushing down the tunnels and into the home ¡°I heard it again, closer, much closer.¡±, he gasped, ¡°Do you think it¡¯s them.¡±.Therd started throwing on his outerwear, ¡°Go find your brothers and meet me at the cairn.¡±, he said as he dressed, ¡°Katya, sing a song of hope for us.¡±.Finished, he nearly ran out, but not before kidding his daughters worried faces, ¡°It¡¯s all right dear ones, I think everything¡¯s going to be all right.¡±, and he was gone.


    Reaching outside it was beginning to dim, wind was still blowing hard and snowing again.There were several pitch torch¡¯s bundled by the dwelling entrance, he tucked them under his arm and ran for the shore.Tor had indeed found his brothers and the three met their father halfway.Running toward the water was not something they did.The lake had claimed many over the years, shore fishing and weed gathering was fine.But there were always some who tried for more.Just a quick float out on a raft, better fishing they thought, but never returned.The cairn rose high and was surrounded by wood, ready to signal someone, but it had been many years since anyone had answered.The shrill scream rang out again, much closer, and then again.Therd handed the torch¡¯s to his boys and fumbled with cold fingers for a flint and steel.Handed down for years the knife was worn to a shadow of what it once was.But still the sparks shot out and ignited the down tinder and eagerly started on the dry wood.¡°Light them up boys.¡±, he called and the lads dipped the torches into the reaching flames.Holding the torches high they waited.


    Minnie had steered the Rose closer to shore, in places the rocks and scrub trees were only ten yards away, still no sign.They had been travelling this way for all of the long cold day.Naomi was pulling the steam whistle regularly now, and they we¡¯re all keeping a keen eye for signs of life.Discouragement was starting to set in.¡°It could have been a lightning strike, and started the fire.¡±, Will mused, ¡°The people we are looking for might just be gone, it¡¯s been long, very long since the Rose was here last.¡±.¡°Yeah¡±, said Minnie ¡°Way before that Magnus guy, I think it was Matt¡¯s auntie, whatshername.¡±.¡°I don¡¯t think it was that.¡±, giggled Naomi.¡°Not what?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Whatshername, you said it was that.¡±, Naomi came back with.¡°Yeah, I know, whatshername.¡±,Minnie said, getting a bit agitated.Will held up a hand, ¡°Look, just off the port bow.¡±.He cranked the wipers and there it was.Moving lights beside a high pyre. It looked as though they had found what they were looking for, finally.


    Will tightened his gear and went out to light the large bow and stern lights.Their yellow rays seem to penetrate the stormy air, and showed the world they were here.Evening was coming on fast as well, the light was failing.Minnie had increased speed and they were drawing nearer and nearer to the fire.Soon it was clear it was man made and there were people waving torch¡¯s.They slowed and stopped, Will rolled out the anchors, they dropped fast, deep down but finally hit bottom and bit hard.This stopped the forward momentum and they were at rest.Standing on the bow he was about forty yards from shore.They were in a slight curve of the land in a bit of a protected cove, but not much.He had brought a megaphone and he called out in a practiced bellow ¡°Ahoy mates, this is the Rose, who might you be.¡±.


    At the sound of that friendly voice and the site of the warm, lit up boat, was nearly too much for Therd.He called back ¡°It¡¯s so good to see you, are you the captain?¡±.His words were nearly lost in the wind but Will heard them.¡°Aye, Will Harris and crew at your service, would you like to meet on board or on shore.¡±.Hearing these words Din clutched his fathers arm, ¡°We can¡¯t go on the water, we¡¯ll die.¡±.As if they had heardhim the voice from the boat called ¡°You¡¯ll be safe with us, trust me.¡±. Even through the wind, distance and muffled by fur, the confidence and assurance rang through.Therd called back ¡°Can I gather my family and come aboard, there¡¯s six of us.¡±.¡°Of course¡±, came the cheery answer, ¡°We¡¯ll put a few more plates out for dinner, I¡¯ll be there in a minute or two.¡±.Therd took Cals arm ¡°Go get ma and the girls, be quick as you can lad.¡±.Without a word the boy took off like an arrow and gone.They could see some activity on the boat, another light went on and three figures were moving about.The black smoke of the boats chimney stopped puffing and it was quieter without the regular ¡®chuff, chuff¡¯.A few minutes passed and he heard footsteps behind, turning he saw the rest of his family near running to him, girls safely in their huge brothers arms.¡°Therd, is everything all right we were so startled that¡­¡±, Katya¡¯s voice died out as a rhythmic creak and clank or oars came closer.A long wooden boat was nearing the shore, propelled by a man dressed in strange clothes.He reached the shore quickly, jumped out of the boat and effortlessly lifted it to rest halfway out of the water.


    ¡°Good evening, I¡¯m captain Will of the heartboat Rose, would you all like to come to dinner?¡±, he said in a friendly voice.

 New Beginnings

    Chapter 8. New Beginnings


    The long boat held them all easily, and with a ¡°Hold still now please¡±, the captain pushed the loaded boat back in to the water and started rowing, faster and faster.The space between the Rose and shore was covered quickly.The children, even the grown boys, were very quiet on the short trip.Gaining the side of the boat the captain called out ¡°Toss a rope if you would.¡±.A shorter figure appeared at the side and threw a line, the captain tied off the dory securely and then reached up snd flipped the side rail down, revealing stairs.He assisted all to the stairs and they were met by the shorter person, dressed much the same as the captain, except their warm woollen hat and gloves were bright yellow.Leading them to a covered set of stairs they were invited to go below.Going down these stairs was like entering another world.


    Below the snow covered deck, was a warm corridor of polished wood with yellow lit lanterns on the walls.¡°If you would like to leave your outer gear here to dry please, boots too, we have extra slippers.¡±, the captain said.He was taking off his gear as was the smaller figure beside him.He was revealed to be a tall man of about thirty five, bald with a large bushy moustache, dressed in blue woollen pants, tucked into thick socks, and a yellow short sleeve shirt.The other figure was something that none of the family had ever seen.A short person, about half the size of the hulking Cal.Covered with short black and white fur, long silky ears, large sparkling brown eyes and a slight muzzle, and a tail poking out of the back of her yellow coveralls.


    Minnie saw them staring and suddenly said ¡°Boo.¡±, in her squeaky voice and laughed gaily as they jumped back.¡°Don¡¯t worry giant guys, I¡¯m friendly.First mate Minnie, of the Rose.¡±, and gave a snappy salute and walked down the corridor and entered the mess hall.Will laughed.¡°Shall we¡±, and he gestured to the door Minnie had gone to.Everyone was more than a little overwhelmed by their surroundings.The warm felt slippers they had been given were very soft and held their feet snugly.Everywhere they looked was warm and hospitable, as they passed the other doors in the corridors one was slightly open.Uma peeked in to see three comfortable beds stacked on top of each other in a cosy room.¡°That¡¯s where the work crews live, while they¡¯re aboard¡±, explained Will, noticing her looking.¡°Work crews?¡±, Oona asked.¡°I¡¯ll explain over dinner¡±, Will promised.Ushering them into the mess there were some very interesting smells going on, bellies rumbling and much sniffing.A young woman came out of yet another door, this one apparently a kitchen.Dressed. Much the same as Will and Minnie, but with long pants and a light shirt.Dark curly shoulder length hair, but tied in two ¡®tails¡¯ on the side.Much shorter than Will but taller than Minnie, she looked about eighteen to Katya.


    ¡°Welcome aboard, I¡¯m second mate Naomi¡±, she said in a light voice, ¡°I hope your all hungry, the captain asked me to go all out on a dinner for us all.¡±.At that moment Minnie came into the mess from the galley and stopped in her tracks.¡±.¡°Dad, dad,¡±, she whispered urgently, ¡°Why are they the same, those two over there, the little ones, they¡¯re the same, are they the mirror people?¡±.Mirror people, Will thought, what is she on about.The Obbs didn¡¯t know what to make if it, so they stayed silent, the girls in question hiding behind their brothers.¡°They are twins Minnie, two babies that grow at the same time, born right after each other.Some times they can look alike.¡±,Will explained.Minnie took a closer look at the cowering girls ¡°Okay then, if you¡¯re not the mirror people we¡¯re okay, do you guys want some yummy apple juice, littles usually like the juice, but we have grape too, and dads yucky weed water, and regular water, but no milk, so do you want something, hey come sit with me and tell me everything, maybe you could draw me a picture of your life.¡±.And with that she took the little girls hands and led them to her raised chair and showed them her sketchbook and pencils.The littles loved this right away and were soon chatting about their world.


    Katya released a breath she didn¡¯t know she had been holding and sat down heavily in a chair.Therd was at her side as were the three sons, ¡°What¡¯s wrong ma¡±, asked Tor.¡°I¡¯m just relieved that we can eat tonight, and be warm.¡±, she replied, then asked ¡°Can I help with anything, I¡¯m not used to just sitting while there¡¯s work to be done.¡±.Naomi smiled at her, ¡°Oh yes, I can always use a hand, dad or Minnie are usually in here but they¡¯re kinda busy now, come on in.¡±, and she led Katya in to the galley.¡°Well that just leaves us¡±, said Will, ¡°Shall we sit?¡±.Taking his usual spot he gestured for the others to join him.After a bit of shuffling and adjusting the four men sat at the table.They were not up used to this, usually meals were taken sitting at a low table on the floor, eating communally. But this was comfortable enough, just different.


    Will poured a cuppa and added a generous amount of sugar.Offered the same to Therd and his boys who all accepted, willing to try something different.Tor and Din loved it, Cal didn¡¯t mind it but Therd didn¡¯t care for it and politely pushed his mug away.Seeing this Minnie laughed ¡°Yup, yucky weed water, bleargh.¡±, Offering juice, warmed and cold Will began.¡°It¡¯s been years since the Rose visited hasn¡¯t it?¡±.¡°Yes¡±, said Therd, ¡°My father was a boy then, she came just for a short visit.Brought us iron tools, knives hammers axes, things like that, we gave furs in return.¡±.He took a drink of the warmed apple juice this time, gasped in delight and quaffed it fast.Will smiled and poured him more, gesturing for him to go on.¡°That captain said they would return regularly but never did, never came back til now.¡±, Therd said sadly ¡°What happened?¡±.Will shrugged slightly, ¡°We have memories, of the captains before me, it seems she just died of old age, then the next and the next didn¡¯t know or bother to find out.They in turn passed.There were a few years while the Rose sat at dock, waiting for Minnie and I to come.¡±.


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    ¡°Will you forget about us too?¡±, Uma asked.Minnie held her hand ¡°Dad never forgets anything, he writes it down.¡±.Naomi laughed from the galley door ¡°He writes everything down.¡±.She and Katya began bringing dinner platters in, large baked hams, fluffy mashed potatoes with butter, baked carrots dripping with syrup, gravy and fresh bread.The boys eyes nearly popping out of their heads at the quantity of food in front of them.Therd¡¯s and the twins as well, they had never seen food like this.Minnie enjoyed sitting with the littles, as she called them, and talking about their lives.Will laughed inside to see this, even if the parents were hiding something, the children couldn¡¯t.There wasn¡¯t much talk from anyone as food was the main thought on everyone¡¯s mind, for the next twenty minutes it was mostly quiet.


    Will had been finished for a while, sipping his tea and chatting with Therd and Katya about children life in general.The twins had gone with Minnie for a tour of the boat, with much giggling.The three boys were finishing up, thanking Naomi for the wonderful meal, with shy glances and smiles.¡°Your mom helped too you know.¡±, she said with a grin.They nearly fell over themselves thanking their mother who just smiled indulgently.¡°So, tell me of your life, do you have any needs we can help with?¡±, Will asked.Therd glanced at Katya, who shrugged as if to say why not.¡°Our village is dying.¡±, he began, ¡°The herds that feed and clothe us have changed their migrations to the south, too far for us to hunt.¡±, Katya broke in, ¡°We need to move, all of us to the south,but we can¡¯t get through.That land is impassable now, the herds were there when the earth shook, and they¡¯re trapped and so are we.¡±, she clasped her hands over her face and sobbed.Therd tried to comfort his wife as best he could, the brothers looked lost.¡°Well, there¡¯s only one thing then¡±, Will said, ¡°Let¡¯s move your village then, to the south.¡±.Minnie had just entered the room gave a cheer hearing this ¡°About time dad, my tail was getting too cold here, my hands too, and my nose and ears, also my feet and toeses, maybe my butt too, oh and my knees and elbows, the top of my heads a bit chilly, and my teeth hurt from the wind, let¡¯s go okay.¡±.She look surprised when the twins gave her a hug, and gently hugged them back.¡°Yeah Min, we¡¯re cold too, let¡¯s skedaddle out of here.¡±, Will said.


    Naomi was a bit confused ¡°What¡¯s a skedaddle.¡±, Tor shrugged as did Cal and Din, ¡°We¡¯ve never heard of it either, pa have you, ma?¡±, he asked.Both Therd and Katya shook their heads, Will sighed.¡°Let¡¯s talk over afters and more tea.¡±.


    Afters turned out to be carrot cakes sadly without eggs but still very good, and fruit preserves on top.Peaches and pears from Laketown.Again the family had never had the like and inhaled two or sometimes three helpings.While they were eating a plan was hashed out, to call a village meeting on the following day.Introduce Will and let him show how they could help.Leftovers were wrapped and placed in a hamper for the family for later and everyone started pulling on their outer gear.Therd marvelled at the thick warm coveralls the crew wore, with layers of warmth underneath.Their own furs were warm and protected them just fine but the wind always found a way.


    The weather had cleared when they climbed on deck, a clear black night sky studded with gloriously bright stars.Will still marvelled at how clear things were.The wind was just a shadow of the gale before, the midships light was welcoming as they stood on deck.Still cold, but not as bitter as before, it seemed they were being given a break, but for how long no one knew.Again it was just Will who rowed them back to shore.His presence made the lake less threatening and for the first time they felt safe near the water.That was until Uma started telling stories that Minnie had told her, about sea serpents, huge sharps attacking, monster waves tossing the boat around.Yup, that definitely changed the mood quick and when shore was reached, they all scrambled off the dory.Will passed the hamper over ¡°¡±I¡¯ll be here when the sun is highest, until then good night.¡±.In the dark the dory was quickly gone and just the rhythmic clack of oars could be heard.The adults were overwhelmed by the hospitality they were shown and the offer of help.The tales of the Rose didn¡¯t do justice to how good and kindthe crew really were.He couldn¡¯t wait to spread the word tomorrow morning, but tonight it was to bed for all, including the sleeping twins being carried by the doting brothers.The headed to the village and their home.


    Will reached the Rose and secured the dory with a line,not bothering to lift her up tonight.Another check on deck, and all was well, he went belowdecks.He was greeted by an eager Minnie and Naomi.They sat in the mess and discussed the events of the day.¡°Can we move them all down south dad, they might freak out.¡±, Minnie asked.¡°We wouldn¡¯t want that, but a short trip should be okay.We¡¯ve had company on board before and they didn¡¯t go boom¡±, added Naomi.Will thought for a bit, ¡°That¡¯s true, it should be okay as long as we¡¯re all here with them, maybe only thirty or forty at a time, that¡¯s a day and night steam for us, then the same back.¡±.Minnie said ¡°We could have the whole village in a couple of weeks, maybe take the littles and old folks first, and some big guys to watch them.¡±.Will agreed and a plan was hatched out, but only if all the village wanted to move.They didn¡¯t know what to do if some held out.But that was a tomorrow worry, tonight was a cleanup and an early bed, it had been a long day.


    The pack sensed a difference.A sound that had been followed and tracked for weeks was gone, the rhythm that had pulled them to the cold north waters.Scouts went out to find the sound again, revenge must be had.

 Meeting the Underground

    Chapter9.Meeting the Underground


    The day dawned bright, still very cold but the sun was reflecting off of the snow with a vengeance.Seeing this Will went to tinker in the workroom, aided by Minnie and soon they had cobbled three pairs of dark goggles together.¡°This should stop us getting blinded by the glare¡±, Will said, ¡°It can get pretty bad.¡±.On the way to the mess they hung the goggles with their outer gear, and then to breakfast.A simple meal of toasted bread and cheese, or jam and tea.They still had coffee but Will had gone off of it for some reason.Teas were usually hotter and gave you time to think while drinking.And he didn¡¯t really like the heavy caffeine feeling after two or three cups.So tea it was.


    ¡°Are we all going to this meeting today?¡±, Naomi asked, ¡°I¡¯d like to see where they live too, sounds fun, living underground.¡± Minnie added.¡°I don¡¯t see why not, they¡¯re pretty friendly folk.¡± Will agreed.So it was settled, there were a few chores around the boat first though.The boiler had to be topped up, keeping it active around the clock always gave a steam loss, so a few gallons of purified water were poured in the reserve tank, which siphoned onto the main as needed.The coal bunkers in the engine room were filled from the hold, a few wheelbarrows and that was done.Will was always pleasantly surprised by how efficient the engine system was.Next was a couple of loads of laundry washed, run through the mangle and hung to dry in the warmest part of the boat.


    With all this done it was time to get cracking on.Will had opened the main hold and lifted two barrels of their emergency supplies up and on deck.It wasn¡¯t much but it would give a bit of a reserve in the lean times to come.They had more but not a huge supply.He liked to keep a few weeks on hand just in case.Dressed in their warmest clothes they donned their heavy and thick coveralls, hats and gloves, scarfs and now the goggles.After they finished laughing at each other and pretending to be monsters they loaded the supplies and were on their way.


    Will had checked and rechecked the anchors but was still nervous with all three off the boat.Seeing her drop away from them as he stroked for shore gave him a odd feeling, like leaving home for the first time, all over again.¡°Me too dad.¡±, Minnie whispered to him, and Naomi nodded her agreement too.¡°It feels weird¡±, she said.Reaching the snow covered rocky beach only took a few minutes, and they unloaded the barrels and pulled the dory up and onto the snow, tipping her on the side.The barrels were heavy, fully laden with many supplies but not for the crew.Will lay a heavy net done, tied the barrel securely and tied it across his back.Minnie and Naomi did the same and easily carried an end each.They trundled through the snow to the cairn, set their loads down and waited to be met.


    Within minutes two of the lads from last night showed, Tor and Cal walking along through the scrub trees and snow.¡°Afternoon.¡±, Minnie called out cheerfully.The boys jumped at the sound of her voice, it seemed they didn¡¯t really expect them to show.It also might have been how they appeared, with the goggles.¡°Hello again, glad to see you.¡±, Cal called, shaking hands all around.Tor just smiled shyly and nodded a greeting.¡°Shall we get out of the cold?¡±, asked Will.¡°Yes, everyone¡¯s waiting in the cave.¡±, said Cal, ¡°Oh can we help.¡±, he went to help with one of the barrels or rations but was as unmoving as a stone.His eyes nearly bugged out, as did his brothers, when Will picked it up easily and Minnie and Naomi the other.Tor shook his head and started back the way they came.


    As they walked into what was the village proper all there was to see was raised mounds of rock with tunnels or spiralling steps leading down.Tor led them to the furthest and largest mound, with a larger tunnel leading down.Torches sputtered on the side of the rock wall as they went down and down in a hand carved tunnel, not a steep angle but an easy walk.Reaching the bottom Will, Min and Naomi found the temperature had risen to a liveable degree so they removed hats and such, and set their burdens down beside them.There must have been 60 or so people sitting or standing, all looking at the three crew.There were six much older people, sitting in a circle in the middle of the cave, ringed by torches.


    ¡°Greetings,I hear you are the captain of the Rose.¡±, asked one of the oldest, a man of about sixty, ¡°It has been many years since a visit, we thought to be forgotten.¡±.The other elders nodded, nearly as one, Minnie quickly stifled a giggle.¡°We are the Eld, we chart the course of this village, we go or stay as the stars tell us.¡±, spoke another.The nodding happened again.Minnie nudged Naomi this time.¡°I¡¯m glad to meet you all, I am captain Harris of the Rose, my daughters and crew, first mate Minnie and second mate Naomi.¡±, Will stated, ¡°There was some trouble with previous captains, accidents. Contact was lost with many peoples, we are trying though.¡±.The six nodded again, this time Minnie joined in, hands clasped in front of her, like the Eld did.The old man continued ¡°The Obb family made contact with you, and tell us you are willing to help, how?¡±.Will gestured at the rocks, ¡°May we sit.¡±, a hand waved assent and the three of them sat on the flat carved limestone.¡°To be blunt, we hear your village is in trouble, and we can help.You need to relocate, and I think very soon.¡±.When he finished there was much talk with the watching villagers.The Eld were muttering, heads together, waving hands.Shouts came from the others, ¡°Why weren¡¯t we told, when did this happen, what are we going to do.¡±.The oldest Eld held up her hands for silence, she got it mostly but there was mutterings.¡°We have known this for months now, but what can we do¡±, she said ¡°There is no where else to go, our scouts haven¡¯t been able to get through the land cracks to the south.¡±.The others nodded in assent.


    Will said ¡°We can help, it might not be easy on you, but we can do it.¡±.When he said this an uproar of sound came from the villagers, it took a few minutes but the Eld got silence.¡°How can you help us, why would you help us.¡±, the oldest asked.Minnie answered that one ¡°Because it¡¯s what we do, we help people, our boat is the best on the lake, and we go everywhere and see everything, Dad will drink tea and figure things out, don¡¯t worry.¡±.There was laughter and many people were talking, it seemed there was much for these people to discuss.Will saw Therd and Katya in the crowd, he beckoned them over.¡°In these barrels are what we call emergency rations, there should be enough to feed everyone for a couple of days at least.¡±, he looked at the nodding Eld, ¡°Let¡¯s hope they make a decision then.¡±.They stood and redressed in their outer gear, hats and so on, ¡°We¡¯ll be at the cairn at noon for the next two days, but then we will have to go before the weather locks us here.¡±.He thought for a moment then ¡°If the Eld decides against moving, you and your family can come with us.We can drop you off at one of the other towns, to be safe.¡±.Katya nodded as any mother would, the opportunity to save her children trumped anything


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    As the crew walked up and out of the cavern the see the barrels were beingopened and marvelled over, foodstuffs that had never been seen. Packets of twice baked biscuits, jams and fruit preserves, beef jerky, salt pork and smoked fish.All well wrapped and well kept, it was being shared out to the family representatives by need, some more, some less.This would supplement the meagre meals they had been on for some time, but it wouldn¡¯t last long.A decision had to be made and soon.


    Therd had noticed Will talking with Katya before they left and when he asked her, didn¡¯t know how he felt.To save his family or abide by what the Eld said, if they were to stay that is.He realized Katya would leave with the girls, the boys might stay if he did, not sure though.¡®I hope the Eld decides soon, and the right way.¡¯, he thought, ¡®Can I go against their will, where would we end up?¡¯.The questions were endless and pointless, sighing he sat beside Katya and the twins.They were munching on a biscuit dipped in jam, they had never had the like.Seeing his girls made the decision that much harder, their safety was always priority but, ahh he had to stop.Wait and see, then act if needed.


    They hadn¡¯t been below very long, but the weather had turned, and turned bad. Will had given the Eld a window of two days to decide if they wanted help to relocate, and it seemed that wash pushing it.The skies were grey and white, snow was falling fast and hard, laying with a vengeance.The wind had died down, which was a blessing, and the temperature had actually gone up a few degrees.This was thanks to the snow of course, didn¡¯t look like it was going to let up anytime soon.The cairn was reached and dory pushed into the water, jumping in they settled to row back to the Rose.¡°Do you think they¡¯ll move, it¡¯s so much for them to do that.¡±, asked Naomi.Will shrugged ¡°I hope so, this isn¡¯t liveable for them anymore without the herds.Their way of life is dependent on the reindeer, without the they¡¯re done.¡±.¡°Can we get a reindeer dad, can you get milk from them, been so long I forgot what it tastes like, maybe we could bring one on without it going nuts, call it William the reindeer and get it a hat.¡±, mused Minnie.Laughing Will had to say ¡°Would have to call it Wilhelmina if you want milk, but it wouldn¡¯t make it, remember the goat and the chickens?¡±.Minnie sighed ¡°Yeah, dumb old chickens.¡±.


    They reached the Rose after a few minutes rowing and climbed aboard, snow was accumulating fast, not drifts yet, but fluffy layers.A snowball fight ensued because of Minnie pushing snow down Naomi¡¯s back who retaliated by washing Wills face with snow when he was tying off the boat.She thought he did it, Minnie helped her by pelting everyone with snowballs.When it was over the wet crew went below to warm up and dry out.Will was glad spirits were high, the people here needed help, but if they refused then it was their decision.This was the distancing he had been thinking about before.Life on the Rose was changing them, not bad or good but kind of detached from the lives of the shore dwellers.It was hard to put into words as he wrote about the days events later.


    The rest of the day was spent in first warming up, then a few chores around the boat.The snow fall was heavy and it was developing into a full out blizzard again.¡°We can¡¯t stay too long here dad, we might get frozen in.¡±, Minnie fretted, looking out the mess ports.Will looked up from his log, ¡°You¡¯re right, I don¡¯t think we could survive a winter here, stuck in the ice.¡±.According to his internal calendar it was mid to late October now.Well within the time for winter to have a good hold.Some years had been mild but others, brrrr, not so mild.These people were used to it, when things were normal, but with a catastrophic change they were done.¡°We¡¯ll give them the two days to decide, I hope they choose to move but it¡¯s their life.I¡¯m never going to force our ways on anyone.¡± he said.


    All that afternoon the snow fell, all night and when morning came there was at least three feet of snow on the deck, higher in drifts.Again it wasshovelling time, the three dressed for the weather and cleaned off the Rose.That took a while, the wetter snow had indeed turned to ice and had to be broken off in chunks.Then a quick bite and Will rowed off to the cairn.Alone this time.The water that splashed as he rowed was cold, nearly liquid ice, that¡¯s what he was afraid of.If the lake started freezing they were out of here, no question about it.


    Arriving at the shore it was very quiet, pulling the dory up to safety he walked the short distance to the cairn.No one, no sign anyone had been here, but tracks up covered fast.¡°Halloo, anyone near?¡±, he called, but no reply.It was very cold and he wasn¡¯t hanging around here for too long so he stamped a circle out around the rocks, keeping warm by moving.The sun wasn¡¯t very visible through the clouds but it was at it¡¯s zenith.He kept his promise and stayed for ten minutes, them started back home.


    He tromped down the stairs from the deck and was met by Minnie and Naomi.¡°Any news¡±, Min asked, Will shook his head.¡°No sign, and I don¡¯t think anyone had been there earlier.¡±.They walked together to the mess so Will could warm his cold bones.¡°One more day, I hope the Obbs come with us, I know there¡¯s lots of others but I feel a bit of attachment because we met them first .¡±.¡°Yeah, and the little mirror girls, they¡¯re cute and nice and stuff but.¡±, said Minnie.¡°Why do you call them mirror girls?¡±, Naomi asked.Minnie shuddered a bit, ¡°You know when you look in a mirror and you see you, there¡¯s another world in there, if you look around corners you can see it, and the people there, and one of these two got out somehow, very creepy.¡±.


    Well that would be creepy, Will thought, and it might be able to happen here so who am I to argue?


    But seeing the kettle had boiled it was tea time, and something for lunch.Maybe some kind of soup today, he liked most soups and missed two kinds in particular.First was his wife¡¯s vegetable with meatballs, and the other was corn chowder, both delicious.It would take too long though, to make it now, so today was a grilled cheese.Easy to make and oh so comforting.All that was missing was tomato soup, but he hadn¡¯t quite figured that one out yet.Minnie loved the grilled cheese as did Naomi so it took a while to make enough to satisfythem all.Eventually bellies were full so it was back to a few chores that needed doing.


    Getting ready if the exodus did happen, but if it wasn¡¯t they were out of here.Tomorrow would tell.

 Todays the Day

    Chapter 10. Todays the Day.


    After a restful evening and an early bed they were all up just after sunrise again.The weather was on everyone¡¯s mind, getting frozen in would be terrible.They might survive, the boat probably wouldn¡¯t.Will was not taking any chances.Checking in today at noon would tell them how the next few days would go.Looking out the ports was futile, they had all been iced or snowed over long ago.Will had contemplated putting in a large window, either at the bow or stern.But the boat design just didn¡¯t support it.This was a working boat, not a pleasure yacht. The portholes worked just fine.


    So up top they had to go.Throwing on long jackets and warm hats, Will and Minnie braved the deck for a quick look.Snow was still falling and there was a heavy accumulation on deck again.The temperature was still holding around minus ten, still cold but not unliveable yet.So lots of snow, which wasn¡¯t great, if it got too cold for snow then the real trouble would begin.They cleaned the deck a bit, just around the stairs and to the dory.¡°Brrr dad, let¡¯s get warmed up, I¡¯m cold all the way down¡±, Minnie called to Will.He waved to let her know he heard and made his way back to where she was.¡°Just wanted to check the wheelhouse.It¡¯s all good, no snow inside.¡±.They looked over at the shore, snow falling hard.It was so desolate and lonely, hard to see through the blizzard that was coming on again.¡°I don¡¯t like it here dad, let¡¯s go back home, Laketown and go south next, k?¡± Minnie said.Will sighed ¡°Me neither, just too cold.One way or another we are going soon.¡±.


    Climbing back down into the warm interior was heaven.¡°I can¡¯t imagine living here all the time.¡±, said Naomi, greeting them below and helping with their coats. They headed to the mess to warmup and have a good breakfast.¡°There were peoples in our old world that lived lived like this, they were or still are I guess, called the Inuit.¡±, Will was having some toast with ham, tea as well, while waiting to go at noon.¡°Very short summers, like here, but they could hunt on the ice in the winters.¡±.Minnie asked ¡°Hunting?Like rabbits?¡±.Taking a sip of tea gave Will time to think,¡±I think so, I remember something about seals too, but it¡¯s been years.I learned about them in school, when I was little.¡±.Minnie laughed at this, so did Naomi.¡°I can¡¯t imagine you as a little, probably still bald with a moustache.¡±, Naomi giggled.This sent Minnie into a wave of laughter, ¡°Don¡¯t forget his yellow hat and teacup.¡±.


    The morning progressed, as they usually do.Mostly slow it seemed, waiting for something always had that affect.A few cups of tea, some card games, writing in the log and it was time to go.¡°Hurry back dad, we worry when you¡¯re gone k.¡± Minnie hugged him as he was getting ready.Full gear this time.Before he put on his hat, he looked at Naomi and Minnie, ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡±, he said in a deep voice.They looked at each other, confused Naomi said ¡° We know, hurry.¡±.He sighed and finished dressing.Going up top used to be easy, a skip and a jump and they were on deck.Now it was a process.Get dressed, open the bottom doors, go through and close them, climb up in the mostly dark and open the top.Out into the blizzard, again.


    The weather hadn¡¯t let up a bit, snow falling like mad and cold. The dory was still in the water from yesterday, but needed sweeping and shovelling clean before he took off.Rowing for shore the sun was a dim yellow ball behind the clouds, mostly covered.It took just a few minutes to get clear of the Rose and close, he sculled along the shore heading to where the cairn was.Over the rhythm of the oars and the wind he thought he heard raised voices, and as he got closer he definitely could.There were at least ten people waiting, shouting and much waving of arms.He reached the beach near, jumped out and pulled the dory up.


    ¡°Hello¡±, he called.In their argument his approach had been missed and his voice caused several to jump.He could recognize a couple of them, one by his size being Cal, the youngest Obb son.Katya was there, beside her son, but the others were unknown, covered in furs didn¡¯t help either.¡°Captain Will, you¡¯re here, thank the elders.¡±, Katya called.Cal came to stand by Will as his mother rushed over and hugged Will.He idly patted her back ¡°Of course, glad you¡¯re here today though, our time has grown short.I hope you¡¯ve made a decision.¡±.Katya stood back ¡°We have, but it¡¯s not a popular one.¡±.One larger man stood forward, ¡°It¡¯s the only one that works Katya Obb, your husband understands, be quiet and do your work.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s not gonna work for me lad, everyone gets a say in their own life, especially mothers.¡±.The man seemed to take offence at his words and stepped forward threateningly, Cal shouldered him out of the way easily and stood by Katya.¡°Not one more step, Arno, this man is here to help, unasked he offered.¡±.The man, Arno, sighed ¡°I¡¯m sorry captain, it¡¯s been a hard two days and not all are happy with our plans, I meant no harm.¡±.Will offered his hand to him, and clasped wrists, ¡°I understand, no hard feelings.¡±. Turning to Cal and Katya, ¡°Suppose you tell me, no wait.Let¡¯s get out of this weather.¡±.With that, the group started trudging to the burrows, to find out what was going to happen.


    The snow was thicker and coming down harder on on shore , the wind had picked up and the land was covered, hardly any signs showing, just the drifts of snow.How the people found their way was a bit of a mystery, until Will noticed the large stones every few yards, marking the way.I thought they were drifts, he laughed to himself.Continuing slogging through the snow until the mounds of the village appeared, they started down the same tunnel as before.The group of elders were in the middle, nodding and talking quietly, but the mood of the room was different.Before there had been despair and unknowing.Now there were smiles when Will appeared, even the Eld were different.


    Deciding to hit the nail on the head, Will strode to the centre of the room, where the Eld sat, swathed in fur on their rock chairs.A hush came over the people.¡°Well my friends, what¡¯s your decision.¡±, Will asked.The Eld looked at each other, one spoke.¡°We must leave this place and go to where our herds are, will you help us captain.¡±.Will was relieved hearing this, he couldn¡¯t force their help on anyone but choosing to live, well that was a good idea in his books.¡°We will.¡±, he said.And at those simple words a cheer rang out, people were streaming out to tell their families the news, they were leaving, on the Rose.Will sat down with the Eld, ¡°and now the details, how is this to be done?.¡±.


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    It had taken at least two hours by Wills reckoning to work out details, who goes first, how many people there are in the burrows, how are they going to live without the underground homes.It was a good thing he had taken his notebook, he could hears Minnie¡¯s laugh as he opened it, and started to write.As he and the Eld were talking and plotting, several villagers had come in, from time to time, to thank him or just to say hello.Or to introduce their family.It seemed these people were more excited than nervous about going on the Rose, that would probably change when they boarded.Will stood and stretched out his sore legs and back, ¡°Okay folks, that''s it for now, we¡¯ll start the show this evening.¡±, shook hands with the elders and started dressing for the cold weather.Then he remembered what both Katya and the man Arno had said, ¡°Why were some against the move, Arno said not all were in favour.¡±.The oldest of them sighed ¡°Because not all are going.¡±.They nodded in unison.He continued ¡°The mere thought of going on the water fills me with dread, I just can¡¯t, and all of the Eld feel the same way.We are staying to meet our fate here.¡±.Hearing this was shocking.Wills first thought was to argue, to change their minds, to guilt them, lie to them, to force his will upon them.Then, what right do I have to force my will on them, it¡¯s their life.¡°As you wish¡±, was all he answered.


    Tor had come to escort him back to the boat, and as they slogged through the snow they talked of the decision to move.¡°We¡¯re all real glad to move to where the herds are, there was no way before, it was bad.¡±, he shrugged, ¡°Ma and pa say we wouldn¡¯t have made it, without you, we owe you lots.¡±.Will stopped him there, ¡°We are glad to help, but you don¡¯t owe us, this is what we do and we love it.¡±.He gestured at the snowy land around them, ¡°Your way of life is hard, this is a tough land to live in, and sometimes you need a hand up to get by.¡±.They had reached the coast,the sun was setting over the lake.The skies had cleared a bit and the snow had stopped.¡°Very peaceful here.¡± Will said, looking over at the Rose.Bobbing at anchor in the icy waters, he could make out figures on the deck.


    ¡°Thanks for the walk Tor, we will see you tomorrow, lots to get ready.¡±, and he pushed the dory into the water, jumped in and started rowing for home.Getting closer there were several figures on deck, he increased speed, but then started laughing.Apparently Minnie and Naomi had been bored and thought that decorating the deck with snow people was the way to go.There were snow men of all shapes and sizes, lined up at the rail like passengers on a luxury liner.Climbing aboard he found snow dogs, snow goats, even a couple of realistic snow crabs in mid scuttle.At the bow was the three of them, standing looking over the lake and the land.I¡¯ll remember this forever, he thought.This time he secured the dory to the davits and lifted her up and snugged it for the night.Taking one last look around at the snowy crew he went below.


    Taking care to close the upper and lower doors tight and putting the bolster at the bottom to keep out the cold air.Minnie had heard him and came out if their cabin with a sleepy ¡°Hey dad, did you like the new crew?¡±.Laughing again, he knelt and gave her a hug, ¡°I loved them, but they¡¯re a little slow.¡±.Naomi had also heard him and came out with a yawn and a hug too.¡°A great snowball fight too, Minnie won but it was close.¡±, she said with a smile at her little sister.¡°Glad you guys had fun, it¡¯s not always work time,I sure need a cuppa and a biscuit or two, maybe even an early dinner.Sound good?¡±.Minnie agreed right away, because biscuits.They headed to the mess and galley.


    The stove was crackling away, so the kettle boiled quickly.While waiting he let Min and Naomi know what was happening with the people.They were both shocked by the Elds decision not to go.¡°You¡¯re not gonna let them are you dad?¡±. Minnie asked sadly.Will sighed ¡°It¡¯s not my place to tell them how to live, being on the water is terrifying for them, and there¡¯s no way overland.¡±.¡°But that doesn¡¯t make it right, older people should be helped and cared for, not sent out to die.¡±, Naomi was nearly in tears.¡°They¡¯re the village council, it¡¯s up to them, I¡¯ll do my best to change their minds, but I can¡¯t pick them up and carry them aboard.¡±.Minnie said ¡°Well we could, wrap them in blankies and toss them over our shoulders, like pirates do.¡±.This made Naomi and Will laugh, the thought of tiny Minnie carrying the tinier Eld over her shoulder, cackling evilly.¡°We have a few days to bring them around, we start with a group of young people tomorrow.A quick there and back run.To start a temporary village until they can dig down again.¡±.


    Minnie perked up at the thought of travelling again.¡°I like it best when we¡¯re moving, going somewhere, fishing again, sitting around doing nothing I get kinda bored.¡±.Naomi nodded ¡°Me too Min, I like the open lake better than the shore.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Well that makes three of us. Now, what shall we have for dinner, piggies in a blanket, toad in the hole, bangers and mash?¡±.Naomi glanced at Minnie ¡°What¡¯s he on about, I know bangers and mash, I think but no idea of the others.¡±.Minnie shrugged her shoulders ¡°Same here, he¡¯s gone mad, too much tea I think.¡±.Ignoring this Will stepped into the galley to start dinner going, Minnie came and joined him, sitting on a high stool while he started preparing their dinner.


    ¡°Bangers and mash I think tonight, hey where did Naomi go?¡±, he asked while cutting spuds for mashed.¡°She wanted a bath, said it been months, I called her stinky.¡±, Minnie answered.Snorting a laugh he continued slicing and dicing, onions now for gravy.¡°She wasn¡¯t mad when you called her stinky?¡±.¡°Nah,¡±, Minnie said, ¡°Need a hand?¡±.Will nodded ¡°Could you get me some sausages from the pantry please, the nice fat ones, maybe four for me, one each for you and Naomi.¡±.She gave him a look ¡°Right one for you and two each for me and Naomi.¡±.Laughing he shooed her out, ¡°Hurry back, I¡¯m starving.¡±.¡°Me too.¡±, she shot back ¡°Building snow people is hard work.¡±.


    Dinner was ready fairly shortly, and when Naomi came in with wet hair they all sat down to eat.¡°A busy day tomorrow hmm¡±, she asked.Will nodded, mouthful of sausage, a quick swallow and ¡°A fast run down the coast, find the herds, drop off a work crew and back here again.¡±.¡°Shouldn¡¯t be too hard, they¡¯re not sleeping here, maybe give them lunch.¡±, Minnie added, being done with her first helping.¡°Crust of bread, glass of water.¡±, said Will.¡°Wouldn¡¯t that be a little cruel, not really enough for hard working folk like these.¡±, Naomi said disapprovingly.¡°I¡¯m kidding, it¡¯s from a story, a girl rescues her dad from an monster but has to stay in his place.¡±, Will explained.Minnie settled back in her chair, ¡°Let¡¯s hear it, a story would be just the thing before bedtime.¡±.


    ¡°Once upon a time,¡± Will started, ¡°There was a young girl called Belle¡­¡±.

 Step One

    Chapter 11. Step One


    Another busy time was starting up for the Rose. No more lazing about. That was in Wills head when he woke. Well that and his first cup of tea, and maybe some toast. He sure missed peanut butter, jam was great and Laketown made the best. But he had been having peanut butter since he was a little boy, fresh off the boat from England. Maybe one day they would find peanuts, he dredged up a memory of his first day here. Stephen had mentioned a place called FarHarbour, they had eaten pineapple. Seemed a long time ago. That was where the next trip would be, south. But getting back to today, helping another community that was in need, he hoped it would go well. Giving a mental click he saw,


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 30/50


    Strength 47/50


    Vitality 46/50


    Stamina 44/50


    Affinities for gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboat Rose


    Navigation 4


    Mechanic 3


    Mason 1


    Outdoor Chef 2


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 6 (will be adjusted for racial type)


    Intelligence 20/25


    Strength 23/25


    Vitality 23/25


    Stamina 22/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry, mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Navigator 2


    Piloting 3


    Mechanic 2


    Crab Catcher


    Shrimper


    Tinker


    Joker


    Arborist


    Labourer 1


    The skill sailor has been learned. Able to perform all duties on a ship.


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 17


    Intelligence 30/50


    Strength 32/50


    Vitality 33/50


    Stamina 36/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Management 2


    Kitchen Artist


    Cooking 4


    Homemaker 2


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Piloting


    The skill probationary sailor has been learned, able to perform most of the duties on a ship. But not all.


    Little increases for sure but anything is good. No huge changes but that''s a good thing, he thought. This world was just perfect for him and his family, thanks Elaith. ¡°Hey you¡± he poked a lump enfolded in blankets beside him, ¡°Wakey wakey.¡±. A slight growl was the response. ¡°Just remember, the early bird gets the worm.¡±, and he started to get dressed, visit the head, morning stuff. He left the cabin and closed the door softly as not to wake her anymore. To the galley, stove lighted, kettle on. Sitting and musing about powdered milk, could that be done here, maybe in a dehydrator. But he didn¡¯t have one of those, he knew the concept though. His wife had made jerky for years, so good. Dried fruit too, apples and bananas, pears occasionally, strawberries and raspberries worked well. He was pulled out of his thoughts by the kettle singing. ¡°Ah, good morning to you too¡±, he said as he poured.


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    After a short time, writing in his to-do book, Naomi came in, followed by Minnie a minute or two later. ¡°Teas ready if you want some.¡± he put out there. Naomi poured a small cuppa and Minnie just poured some warmed apple juice he had prepared too. They sat for a while, waking up. Will was still contemplating the problem of the Eld staying behind, there was not an easy solution. Naomi was fixing breakfast today, oatmeal and fried ham. When Will was in deep thought he still had the habit of slipping Minnie part of his meal. It was just something he did. Habit from his old life, sharing with his little friend. ¡°What if we gave them a poisoned apple? They would go to sleep, we¡¯ll carry them to the new place, dump them off and they can be mad there.¡±, Minnie said. Hmm, thought Will, that''s not a bad idea, not the poison part, but something like. ¡°It¡¯s still going against their wishes though.¡±, Naomi said, ¡°I don¡¯t like it but it¡¯s their life, like dad said.¡±. ¡°It¡¯s a problem for sure, but I don¡¯t want to borrow trouble by going against them, we will probably come back to trade one day.¡±, Will sighed. Another cuppa wouldn¡¯t help, it was time to get to it.


    The boiler was set to full and it started building pressure quickly, it was never really off in this weather.Fully dressed for the weather, Will lifted the folding boats to the main deck. They were swiftly assembled and lifted on the cranes, ready to drop. But they were going to go closer to shore first. The lake was pretty calm today and the weather was clear. No snow so far, just the overnight accumulation, and the snow people. Silently watching and judging. Minnie wanted to leave them up and so did Will, he didn¡¯t know if the village people, wait a sec he thought, what was that? Village people, he burst out loud laughing. Minnie and Naomi must have thought he had lost it, Minnie said as much. ¡°Dad, are you okay, what¡¯s so funny?¡±, she said in a worried voice. Naomi didn¡¯t say anything, just leaned on her shovel for a rest and waited. Will laughed again, ¡°There was this band of musicians, years and years ago ,they had a hit song and dance thing. Called the YMCA, they would dance across the stage and act out the letters of the song.¡±. He shook his head ¡°Their name was the village people, and for a sec I had a picture of the Eld, singing and dancing across the deck.¡±. Of course Minnie needed to be shown, and soon they were dancing to the misremembered lyrics.


    Eventually the Rose was brought closer to the shore and they could see a group waiting by the cairn.¡°I wonder if they saw us dancing.¡±, Naomi asked.¡°I hope so, we were awesome.¡±, Minnie answered. Will was dropping the dory into the icy water, as he did the bow rope snapped, dropping the boat the last three feet.Stressed by the cold too much Will supposed.The boat looked okay, so he quickly lowered the stern rope, pulled it to the lowered stairs and checked it out.It was fine, encrusted with rime and ice on the brass works, but no problems, the snow was quickly swept out and it was ready for him.The two folders were much lighter, Will easily put one in the water for Naomi.Then the second for Minnie .Before he jumped in he rechecked the anchors, didn¡¯t want the Rose to go adventuring by herself.


    Rowing to shore took but a few minutes. They were greeted by excited villagers, piles of supplies and tools were stacked beside them. All young men and women, twenty in all were the work crew. Including two familiar faces, it was Tor and Din. ¡°Hi guys, where¡¯s your big brother at?¡±, Minnie asked. Tor snorted, ¡°I¡¯m the oldest brother, but Cals staying with ma and pa.¡±, ¡°And the sisters, glad they¡¯re not coming.¡±, Din glowered out. Naomi laughed at him ¡°Not too happy with your sisters?¡±. Din shrugged, getting him to talk was like pulling teeth. Tor gave a laugh ¡°His boots were full of snow, he wasn¡¯t very cheery with them.¡±. Will nodded ¡°Well, are you all ready, busy day for all of us. Let¡¯s load up, don¡¯t fear the lake, we will keep you safe.¡±. He directed six each to the folders, the rest and supplies with him in the dory.


    As they climbed into the boat you could feel the mood change. All their lives they had feared the lake, and were now riding on it. Will could hear Minnie singing in her boat as she rowed hard for the Rose, it was still the YMCA song, drifting back over the waters. Naomi joined in, pulling just as hard, their lighter boats fairly flew. The dory was finally packed with people and supplies, Will startled them by easing the heavy boat into the surf. ¡°Hold tight.¡±, fully afloat now he hopped in and started for the Rose. Just a few minutes of busy oars brought them alongside and climbing up. The young people huddled together on deck, pretty terrified. Surrounded by snow people, they were definitely nervous and unsettled. Tor and Din had been here before and knew the way down to the mess hall, so Will asked if they would lead the others down. Will lowered all their tools and supplies into one of the holds, lifted the dory to its davits and hoisted the folders aboard. Minnie was in the wheelhouse preparing to set sail. The anchors were the last thing to do, cranking them up took only a minute or two and they were ready to go. He waved to Minnie, she gave the steam whistle a blast and they were off.


    After joining her, agreeing on a course, Will went below to see his passengers. ¡°I need cookies dad, rowing was such hard work, and maybe some juice, warmed up k, oooh and a bacon sandwich, extra butter too.¡± Minnie asked. ¡°Sure sweetie, I¡¯ll bring both of our lunches up.¡± Will replied. As he left he felt the prop engage and the stack started to blow rich black smoke, the boat made a wide turn out to sea and headed south. Standing at the stern he saw the shore rapidly fade away until it was clear water all around.


    The pack heard/felt the sound again, called all the hunters back and changed course to intercept. They had no idea of time, today, next year, didn¡¯t matter. They would pursue forever.


    Going below it was much warmer so he doffed his outer gear and boots and hung them to warm in the engine room. Hearing voices the mess was his next stop. Passing by the crew rooms doors were ajar and peeking in carefully he saw that much clothing had been left there. Just wasn¡¯t needed in the warm boat. ¡°Hope it¡¯s not too much clothing.¡±, he laughed. No fear though, when he entered the mess everyone was decent, mostly. Taking advantage of the warmth the visitors had stripped down to shorts and sleeveless undershirts. Luckily they were only here for a few hours, it was very apparent that bathing was a luxury and rarely done. Naomi had already lit several candles. Will wondered how Minnie would react with her sensitive nose, and sometimes big mouth.


    ¡°Everything okay up top dad?¡±, she asked when she noticed him. The visitors were big people, mostly well over six feet and Naomi was rather diminutive. She had been lost in the crowd. ¡°Sure is, we¡¯re on the way. Hope it¡¯s a bit warmer as we go, getting brisk as the wind comes up.¡±, Will replied. ¡°Captain, where¡¯s the little one, the one with ears?¡±, asked one of the visitors, a tall girl called Miwa. ¡°She¡¯s piloting the boat right now, did you need something?¡±, Will asked. ¡°Oh no, she just made me laugh, so happy she is, told us a joke but I didn¡¯t get it, til now.¡±, Miwa said. Tor spoke up ¡°She said someone in the boat was really an owl, and when we all said who she laughed.¡±. Naomi burst out laughing too ¡°That¡¯s a good one.¡±. She had been in the galley before Will came in and had made tea, the visitors were looking at it, smelling it, some seemed to like it and were drinking it carefully, being so nice and hot. But, sadly, a couple of the lads didn¡¯t care for it and carefully pushed the cup away. Will poured a large mug himself, sat and tried to put the nervous visitors at ease, at least a bit.


    ¡°So, is the plan to start delving right away, the rocks probably the same soft limestone like you¡¯re used to.¡±, he asked. Tor, who seemed to be the spokesperson said ¡°Yar, we¡¯re going to start digging, it would be nice to find a cave or two for an easy start, but we have to make sure the herds are near enough first.¡±. Will nodded ¡°We¡¯ll start getting closer to shore in a few hours, after we¡¯re past the earth quake area. It¡¯s safer for the boat if we cruise further out, don¡¯t want to hit any ridges.¡±. He finished up his tea, asked Naomi if she could prepare a tray for Minnie and was about to leave. ¡°Captain, why were there snow figures on the boat, are you honouring your ancestors.¡±, the question was asked by one of the young girls. Oh oh, thought Will, did we step on some toes? ¡°Umm.¡±, he started, ¡°It was mostly done for fun, playing in the snow. Showing who could make the biggest, or the weirdest.¡±. ¡°Yeah, Minnie and the snow crabs won that one.¡±, Naomi added. The young girl, Jeri, seemed satisfied ¡°I was just wondering why you made them, we do as well, for enjoyment and to remember those who passed.¡±. One of the others, a biggish boy, asked if they could lay down, the constant rocking was making him sick, and most of them agreed. The greenish ones went to the bunks in crew quarters and tried to snooze away the sea sickness.


    Naomi had quickly put snacks and a sandwich together for Minnie and Will was going to carry it up when Jeri asked if she could accompany him. ¡°Of course, but you might want to get dressed again, still cold.¡±, she laughed and went to throw on her furs. Naomi beckoned him to the galley, ¡°Watch it dad, she¡¯s husband hunting.¡±. ¡°Oh oh, how do you figure?¡±, Will asked. She shrugged, ¡°She¡¯s acting like young women do around a bunch of unmarried men. We have dances at home, I mean Laketown, all the unmarrieds go.¡±. Sounds fun, he thought. ¡°She doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m husband material does she?¡±, he asked worriedly. Naomi laughed, ¡°The heroic captain of the Rose, coming to save them all, tall, strong and handsome, just a little older than her. She¡¯s young and pretty, not afraid of work. No, you¡¯re not what she¡¯s looking for at all.¡±. Will sighed ¡°Great.¡±. Leaving the galley, where he had filled his mug again, he found Jeri waiting, carrying Minnie¡¯s tray, looking very fetching in her winter gear, all long red hair and fur. Together they left the mess, he pulled on his thick overalls and boots. While he was dressing Jeri was talking about life at the old village and how excited they all were to be moving. He opened the lower doors, and carefully shut and sealed them behind. Very close quarters indeed. Climbing up and then opening the top doors, greeted by cold fresh air and hazy blue skies. The waves had started to lift the boat a bit more, only three or four footers, but enough to upset the visitors below. Jeri seemed to have no ill effects and stayed by Wills side with no problem on the bounding deck. It took but a few minutes and they made the wheelhouse successfully.


    ¡°Holy moly dad, did you have to grow the apples for juice, you took forever, I¡¯m empty all the way to the top.¡±, Minnie complained as he entered. ¡°Sorry sweetie, took a little longer than I thought. Oh, this Jeri, came up for a visit.¡±, he said, placing the tray on the map table. ¡°Hi girlie, I¡¯m happy to see you again, did you like my joke.¡±, Minnie said, seizing a sandwich and taking a huge bite. ¡°I did, do you know anymore, that one was funny.¡±, Jeri answered. Oh oh, thought Will, this could take a while.


    Success! The prey had been located, they were close. The sound was very loud now, the pack was many and strong, revenge for the mother was soon.

 Starts and Sharps

    Chapter 12Starts and Sharps


    This day had not ended well, a great beginning but it had gone downhill pretty fast.Will paused a minute to gather his thoughts, writing the log was important.It gave him perspective about events, what led to them, if they could have been avoided.Lessons for the future, because we did this, that happened.Don¡¯t do it again.First off and most importantly the crew was safe, Minnie and Naomi were well and unharmed.The Rose was intact, little bit of damage here and there, mostly cosmetic.Scuffed paint, broken rope but he was always amazed by how tough the heartwood was.Stronger and more resilient than steel it seemed, no wonder there was only one.Again he wondered where and how this home of theirs came to be, one day he thought, one day we¡¯ll find the makers.But back to his writings,after his and Minnie¡¯s breakfast they turned closer to shore¡­


    ¡°Waters clear dad, no sign of underwater stuff.¡±, Minnie was looking through her telescope toward the shore.¡°All right Min, let¡¯s get closer and see if we can find any trace of their herds.¡±, Will said.Minnie spun the wheel and the Rose heeled over a bit as they curved toward shore, bow plunging through the icy blue water.Going out on deck Will thought it was a bit warmer, not much though.Still needing his thick coveralls and long underwear, and the wind was cutting in deep.The boat was getting close to the icy shore and he felt Minnie cut their speed and start their course parallel to the land.Since Jeri was still with them he asked her to go below and get her friends, the more eyes on shore the better.¡°Of course captain,¡± and she quickly ran below.In a few minute all of the young people had come on deck and were eagerly scanning for any trace.¡°Do the herds come near the lake?¡± Will asked.Tor answered ¡°No, they don¡¯t usually, but this is different land for them.¡±, he shrugged, ¡°They might.¡±.It looked as there was no clue that could be seen from the boat.Minnie used her telescope but to no avail, they chugged on this course for a couple of hours, taking shifts at the rail.Warming up belowdecks then coming back up again.


    The sun was between noon and setting when a cry rose up, ¡°I see one, no there¡¯s three, four, ten, the whole herd!.¡± Din had been at the bow, looking toward land and had spied the reindeer, grazing in a copse of trees, fairly near the shore.¡°Dead slow MIn.¡±, Will called and the boat slowed, just making way now.He was looking for a safe place to anchor, and a good place to drop off the young people.¡°Up ahead, fifty yards, and we¡¯ll drop off there,¡±, he pointed to where the beach gently dropped into the water.


    The land beyond looked as good as any. Lots of trees, rolling plains, and hopefully soft rock below to start digging homes.¡°Let¡¯s ready the boats.¡±, he asked and the visitors helped him drop the folders over the side and drop the dory.As he was doing this there were several soft thumps against the hull.Quiet at first, then louder and many more until it felt as though a giant was hammering the boat.The Rose was starting to rock, not too much as she was a broad beamed vessel, but any kind of rocking is bad, especially when the sea is calm.Will ordered the waiting villagers to get lifebelts out of the deck boxes and get them on.Minnie was in the wheelhouse and flung the door open, ¡°Dad, what¡¯s going on, did we hit rocks or something?¡±.¡°I don¡¯t know, get your life belt on, whistle down and get Naomi up here, something bad is happening.¡±, Will bellowed back.Holding the rail with an iron grip he looked over the side, oh no, he thought.Turning and calling to Minnie ¡°Sharp attack!¡±.


    The tall fins were cutting under the boat and were the cause of the thumps and bangs.Will cautiously cranked the dory back up and locked her in place.The folders were a different story as they were already floating.Grasping the tied off bow line he slowly pulled the heavy boat on deck, as he was doing this it sent the sharps into a frenzy.Biting at the stern as it left the water, leaping madly up, full length out of the water.There were hundreds around them.He reached for the second line, to pull that one up too, but a sharp bit the line clean through just under his hand.The folder was drifting off, toward shore, being attacked by the maddened fish.One giant eighteen foot sharp leapt up and onto the small boat, flattening it and sending it down to the bottom.¡°This is madness, step back all, in fact go below.It¡¯s safe there, they can¡¯t get through the heartwood.¡±, Will called out and watched until all the visitors had gone down.¡°You too Jeri, it¡¯s not safe up here yet.¡±, he shooed her down.


    The next step was to open the main hatch and jump down.Minnie and Naomi met him, coming in from belowdeck.¡°Remember the gear we wore sharp hunting?¡±, he asked.Minnie nodded and began opening the water tight boxes lining the hold.She brought out the chain mail arm and leg protectors, as well as the metal sheathed gloves.Naomi was pulling down all the harpoons they had and tying them to a line to haul on deck.¡°When we¡¯re on deck, tie yourself to the tow bollard, short lines though, you don¡¯t want to fall overboard.¡±, he puffed as they dressed in the protective gear.As they readied to climb the rope ladder to get back to the deck , he stopped them both.¡°Don¡¯t take any chances, stay back and take care of the ones I haul on deck, headshots through the gills.¡±.Minnie was shivering, more in anticipation of a hunt than fear ¡°Why they attacking us dad, we hunted them a long time back.¡±.Naomi echoed her ¡°They¡¯re just fish, they shouldn¡¯t do this.¡±.She looked as determined as Minnie, to defend her home from the evil fishies.¡°I don¡¯t know why,¡± Will said ¡°but it looks as though we don¡¯t have to hunt them again, this time they came for us.¡±.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Before going back on deck, he stuck his head into crew quarters, the villagers were huddled together.¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not as bad as it looks or sounds.¡±, Will said, ¡°Just stay here, we¡¯re a lot tougher than we look.¡±.Tor stepped forward, ¡°We can help captain, all of us have hunted wolves and we brought our spears and axes, please let us.¡±.Will was torn, there was only the three of them, admittedly the crew was much more than they appeared.But there¡¯s a lot of fish out there..¡°All right, get prepared.¡±.There was a rush for the hold where their equipment had been stashed and the soon they had armed themselves with long spears, axes over the shoulder or on their hip.A very deadly bunch.¡°When we get on deck watch those spears, don¡¯t get one of us by mistake.¡±, they laughed, ¡°We use these from when we are tiny, no mistakes.¡± Din growled out.


    Going up on deck with the group was a bit comforting.As strong and tough as the crew had become they couldn¡¯t be everywhere.And there was a lot of sharps around them, hundreds it seemed.Minnie and Naomi would harpoon one or two, haul them on deck where they were killed instantly by eager spears.Will was pulling in bigger ones, sometimes two at a time, if the harpoons bit well enough.Quickly dispatched by the lads near him.The deck was awash with blood and sharp chunks, making for slippery footing indeed.Being roped was the only thing stopping them from sliding around and maybe even off of the boat.The slaughter continued, dozens of sharp carcasses had been tossed back into the water but these were the smaller ones, up to fifteen feet.There were a few true monsters gliding around the Rose, some larger than twenty feet, easily a third of the Rose.These were truly worrying.For now though they were feasting on the remains of the smaller ones, sometimes moving curiously slow or jerkily.Will pointed the biggest one out and he and Minnie launched their harpoons together and speared it, they started pulling the enormous fish closer to the boat.I hope the barbs hold, Will thought.¡°Let¡¯s get it as close as we can and kill it Min, I¡¯ll hold it, you spear it.¡±, Will called out.Minnie was standing on the tow bollard, with another harpoon braced on the deck beside her, ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s get it, maybe the others will get the message.¡± she yelled.Naomi came up and stood beside them and waited for the sharp to make an appearance.Will and Minnie hauled mightily, Naomi jumped on the rope as well and the fish, no matter how hard it fought, couldn¡¯t escape.The villagers watched in awe as the head appeared on the port side, no way to get away the inexorable pull, thrashing, beating its head on the side of the boat..As soon as she saw it above the railMinnie plunged her harpoon through the fishes gill, followed by Naomi¡¯s, the fish shuddered once and stop moving.Tor cleaved his axe through the spine to make sure and the huge carcass slipped back below the waves, harpoons and all.


    ¡°Captain, that weighed as much as ten of us, how did you lift it?¡± Din asked.Will looked at Minnie and Naomi, ¡°Being crew of the Rose we have been getting stronger and tougher than we would have on land.¡±, Will answered.¡°It¡¯s probably the lake, it loves us, the fishies don¡¯t though, I love to eat them though, with chips and maybe gravy, but not these guys,¡± Minnie said,¡±No one want to eat these things, even the lake thinks they¡¯re yucky, the sea serpent might like them though.¡±.


    The attack had stopped when the huge fish had died, so far anyways.It looked like they had taken out more than half of the attackers.The lake was red with blood, on deck the snow and ice was gone, washed away by blood as well.Minnie¡¯s and Naomi¡¯s snow people had not fared well.No more fins thumping against the bottom of the boat, just the waves lapping on the hull and the wind blowing.It had been a wild hour but it looked like they had won.Good thing too, the temperature had lowered even more.In the minus twenties now, the water was liquid ice.The blood had frozen and when it did warm up, it was going to be a long cleanup.


    What worried Will the most was if they had entered the boats fifteen minutes earlier.So many what ifs to worry about there.The three crew would probably have survived, the visitors not so much.


    The villagers had killed many of the smaller ones, harpooned by Naomi or Minnie, yanked up and neatly speared.Tor and a few of the others had been using harpoons with lines so to not lose their fine spears to the depths and.¡°Hey Naomi,¡±, Minnie called, ¡°Could you use your bow to shoot the sharps?¡±,Naomi stopped what she was doing, a strange look on her face.¡°I didn¡¯t think of that, I sure could have.It would have been safer if the two of us had been shooting them.I have lots of arrows.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Well hindsight is always twenty twenty, right?¡±.At the bow Jeri and a few others were looking out at the lake, ¡°Captain, you might want to see this.¡±, they called.Will and crew hurried over.


    The body of the huge sharp they killed had floated to the surface, surrounded by several others just as large.Some still moving slightly but most unmoving, rolling in the icy water, dead.More and more were coming up, acting the same until the Rose was surrounded by dead fish on every side.¡°What the heck?¡± Minnie said.Will unclipped a long boat hook from the rail and gave a big one a few pokes, nothing, no reaction.Naomi threw a harpoon and speared a smaller one and they pulled it onboard.Making sure to cleave it¡¯s head in first, then they examined it.¡°It¡¯s very cold, the blood isn¡¯t flowing, I think they have frozen in the cold waters.¡± Naomi said.¡°Well they¡¯re not the same as great whites from our old world, they were able to live in the cold waters.These are much more cold blooded,¡± looking down Will laughed ¡°very cold blooded.¡±.¡°So they tracked us down, swam like crazy and attacked, and didn¡¯t notice they were freezing until they died, pretty dumb fish.¡±, Minnie said.


    The cold was getting to them all, so after all the remains had been shovelled off the deck, all weapons tucked away again in the hold, everybody but Minnie and Will went below.Those two started the Rose moving again, just a few miles down the coast, away from all the dead fish.¡°They¡¯re gonna wash ashore tomorrow and that¡¯s yucky, I don¡¯t wanna climb over them when we land.¡±, Minnie said.¡°Me either,¡± Will agreed, ¡°Let¡¯s steam along a while and get shut of this mess.¡±.Minnies stomach gave a huge rumble,¡°I hope we can have some dinner soon, I¡¯m starving.¡± she complained while standing at the wheel.¡°Oh yeah, me too, anything but fish though.¡± Will laughed.


    The last remnants were swimming desperately for warmer waters, just a couple of dozen.Smaller ones.In the frenzy to find and kill they had gone well beyond where the fish usually hunted, into the death zone.Swimming slower and slower, but trying to get away from the hated noise now, blood freezing in the veins until nothingness took them.Revenge was over, as was the pack.

 Can You Dig It

    Chapter 13.Can You Dig It?


    ¡°What a day.¡±, Will said as he finally had a cuppa.The deck had been cleaned as good as it could be in the subzero weather, while steaming along the coast.When they got back to warmer climes the Rose would be scrubbed, but this was as good as it got now.The dead fish were long behind them now and curiously enough, the reindeer herds followed the shriek of the steam whistle.Minnie made sure to blast it every few minutes and every time she did there were always answering bellows.¡°Weird right?¡±, she asked.They were sitting in the wheelhouse, just the three of them.Naomi had dozed off beside Will, head resting on his shoulder.Even the whistle wasn¡¯t waking her.


    After the attack the villagers had needed a rest, strong and fit as they were, the water was not for them.The lake was not their home as it was the crews.Being rocked as they travelled still made most of them sick but not for much longer, they would be dropped off in a couple of hours then the Rose was steaming back to get more people.In a little while they were going to anchor, close to shore again, hope no sharps attacked and have a hot meal.Stew and bread, maybe some cheese and sausage too.Problem was the supplies wouldn¡¯t last forever not with the hungry horde below.Will remembered how the Obb family had reacted to the dinner when invited aboard.If the resting villagers were anything like, the possibility of being eaten out of house and home was real.¡°Maybe we¡¯ll have oatmeal tonight, and toasted bread.Oats we have bags and bags of¡±, he said aloud.¡°Bleargh,¡±, Minnie gagged, ¡°I mean it¡¯s okay, with fried ham or bacon, even left over pork chops, but just oatmeal, needs a lot of honey to be okay to eat and it¡¯s still just kinda goo.¡±.Will agreed, ¡°Stew it is, and bread and butter of course.¡±.He looked outside, and realized it was getting too dark to be this close to the shore.Never knows ahead, ¡°You know, I think we¡¯re going to anchor for the night, drop off the kids tomorrow morning.It¡¯s too cold and too dark, shut us down Min.¡±.


    Anchored and sealed up as the sun slipped down and full night was on them.The mid deck light was on while Will and Minnie, and a now awake Naomi headed below for the night.As they trudged to the stairs Will missed the warm summer nights, sitting on the deck for hours, just sailing along.No snow to shovel, no ice to clean off , ¡°After this trip, we¡¯re not coming this far north, maybe to trade once or twice a year.But I¡¯m not liking this cold much, what do you guys think?.¡±Minnie agreed ¡°Yup, let¡¯s go back where it¡¯s warm, these guys are nice and all but my feet are tired of being cold, and my nose.¡±, Naomi just yawned and nodded her agreement too.Opening the doors to the stairs and heading down was wonderful, warm and dry.Their winter gear was a mess, and would take way too long to dry to wear again tomorrow morning, but it needed washing badly.They all had other winter clothes, purchased in Newton last trip.Not as long lasting as the coveralls but just as warm.For now Will took all the mucky gear to the small laundry room, it would take several rinses to get all the sharp blood and goo out.Minnie had gone to their quarters to get clean clothes and a wash.He was heading there now.


    The young people had perked up now the boat was at anchor and cheered upon hearing they would be on the Rose for a night.Sitting in the mess they were reliving todays battle, for that¡¯s what it had been.Will didn¡¯t know what had caused the sharps to follow them so far, some kind of instinct, to strike back perhaps.¡°We¡¯ll never know.¡±, he said to Minnie, who was perched on a stool in the galley with him.She shrugged ¡°Nope, can¡¯t know everything.¡±.Pretty good attitude thought Will.The galley door was open so they could see and hear what was happening in the mess hall. ¡°It¡¯s so warm here, and the food is so good.¡±, the normally quiet Din said.The others nodded, much like the Eld did.Minnie¡¯s eyes widened in glee but didn¡¯t say anything¡­yet.The visitors were all seated at the long tables and were talking amongst themselves, quietly for the most part.


    Naomi had gone to wash up so Will had lighted the stoves and put on water for stew, and the kettle of course.Chopped carrots, onions and potatoes all went into two big cast iron cauldrons , opened a few jars of salt pork and rinsed the salt out Pulled down two big cast iron fry pans and started the meat browning.There was a commotion in the mess that cause him to stop cooking and Minnie to stop stealing bits of crispy pork for a minute and see what the heck was going on now.Apparently there was a contest happening, an arm wrestling competition.Friendly enough with much laughter and gentle jeering.So far Tor was winning, but his brother was doing well too.One large lad, hugely muscled arms came up to Will and asked if he would like to try, Will laughed¡°Sorry lads, dinner won¡¯t cook itself, lots to do in here.¡±.He turned back to the galley, hearing the boy mutter ¡°Women¡¯s work¡±, under his breath.Minnie had heard this too and jumped on a stool ¡°I¡¯ll give it a try.¡±.The boy, Arnon, laughed at her, but then seemed to remember the fight this afternoon.Looking slightly worried now he sat opposite to her at the table.Tor came to referee and the others clustered around.Minnie and Arnon clasped hands, covered by both of Tors, ¡°When I let go the games on, Arnon don¡¯t hurt the little one.¡±, he said.Counting to three he let go, Arnon slammed his arm back and then down, smashing his opponent¡¯s hand to the table, winning again.At least that¡¯s what he thought was going to happen, in reality Minnie¡¯s small arm didn¡¯t move at all, except to slowly press his arm gently to the table.¡°Sorry guy, I didn¡¯t hurt you did I ¡°, she smirked across the table at him.Will was watching and smiled at her ¡°Good one Min.¡±.A few others tried but failed as absolutely as Arnon had.¡°You¡¯re all made of iron.¡± Tor said admiringly.Naomi had entered behind the group ¡°Yar, we¡¯re pirates, rough and tough.¡±.


    That made Will laugh from his spot at the galley door, they were much more than meets the eye.But back to his stew, everything had boiled nicely, potatoes nice and soft, same with the carrots.Time to thicken the sauce, he hated watery stew.Lots of garlic, salt and pepper, then boiled again for a few minutes.The smells were drifting out and he could have sworn he heard stomachs rumbling, even in the galley.¡°Hey dad, are you going to eat all that yourself?¡± called Minnie.¡°Yes.¡±, he yelled back, ¡°Kidding, two minutes, get plates and stuff ready in there.¡±.There was a clattering of plates, bowls and silverware as they got ready to attack.A few final stirs and the two huge pots were ready .¡°Incoming.¡±, Will called out and carried the hot pots in to the mess.¡°Hurray for dinner.¡±, Minnie called out, and quickly ladled a generous helping into a bowl, buttered two thick slices of bread and dived in.The others did the same and for the next little while it was quiet.


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    ¡°You¡¯re a wonderful cook captain, thank you so much.¡±, Jeri was smiling at him.Behind her Naomi rolled her eyes and Minnie made a gagging motion, this made Will smile, which Jeri thought was for her.¡°You are all very welcome, it was not the day we planned for sure, but we got through it.Thanks to you all.¡±, Will raised his mug in salute.No one knew what to do, until Minnie and Naomi did the same, then it was cheers all around.Second helpings and even some third helpings until the stew was just a happy memory, tired and stuffed people headed for bed.With one exception, Jeri had helped by clearing the tables, helping Naomi as best she could.A fast learner and a generally happy person, very willing to assist with anything.It was hard for Will to see the spear wielding banshee of the afternoon with this chatty young women.He knew what she was up to, even if she didn¡¯t think he did.A pot of tea was on the table and the four were sitting enjoying a final cuppa, Will was anyways , Minnie still thought of it as yucky weed dirt water, Naomi didn¡¯t mind a cup now and then but really preferred coffee.Jeri had taken a cup but wasn¡¯t drinking it, it didn¡¯t seem to be her cup of tea.


    Minnie was telling stories of their travels so far, whales, dolphins, shrimp, all the people she had met.To Jeri it was very exciting, but the water was terrifying.The adrenaline of the fight had kept her going, but once it was over, the fear of deep water and what horror¡¯s were below came back.¡°I would love to live as you do, but the water is so, I don¡¯t know what.The thought of what¡¯s underneath us right now, it makes me shake if I think about it too much.¡± she said.¡°This isn¡¯t a life for anyone but us, Minnie and I came to this world and bonded with the Rose.¡± Will showed her his right hand and the tattoo that covered his palm, Minnie did the same.¡°Naomi was waiting for us here, I think.She bonded with the boat too¡±, and Naomi opened her hand to reveal hers.¡°When she did I got the feeling we were going to be the last crew of the Rose, our life is not a normal one.¡±.He sighed and Minnie took over the tale ¡°Dad was an old old guy when we got here, he got young and tough, I was a dog but now I¡¯m me, Naomi was, well she was mostly the same but she¡¯s my sister now, we don¡¯t get old, some bald guy told dad we can live forever.¡±.Naomi spoke up ¡°I could feel the change in me, when Will and Minnie appeared it was like something had just become right in the world.That first day I went to the lake and saw the Rose steaming out of her long sleep, I knew that¡¯s where I would be.¡±.


    At these revelations the young girl looked sad, ¡°Are you going to be alone forever, Will you find someone to love, have a family with.¡±.Will gave a slight laugh ¡°I found that someone fifty years ago, we had children, a life together, then she was gone.¡±.Talking about his previous life was still hard but he didn¡¯t want to lead her on, better to get things straightened out now.¡°I don¡¯t know if I could find someone again, it has only been a year since she passed, just before we became who we are now.I¡¯m still grieving, I don¡¯t like to think of getting over it, but I will come to terms with it eventually.¡±.Jeri reached and held his hand, the one with the tattoo, in her hers.Not saying anything, just giving what comfort she could.¡°When mom left I nearly remember, I know it now, there¡¯s a piece of us missing,¡± Minnie shook her head ¡°My sister helps, she fills that gap of someone to love, dads my guy, he¡¯s everything to me and I¡¯ll love him forever, but I¡¯ll always miss mom.¡±.Shaking his head and trying to lift the somber moodhe squeezed Jeri¡¯s hand in thanks.¡°Guys, I am tired as heck, it¡¯s been a busy day.I am going to check up on deck then catch some z¡¯s.¡±.In a bit of confusion everyone looked around, what was he catching?The other three were staying in the nice warm mess, Minnie had offered to come with but it was more like ¡°I¡¯ll come if you really really need me, but it¡¯s so cold and I¡¯m nice and warm here, but.¡±.He took pity on her with a laugh, said ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡± and left to get dressed warmer.


    The deck was icy, wind blowing and a light snow falling.It¡¯s odd, he thought, that¡¯s it¡¯s warmer when it¡¯s snowing.The mid deck lantern was on as usual and painted the boat in a warm light.Very peaceful up here, compared to a few hours ago.He still couldn¡¯t figure why the sharps had followed them for so long.They were just fish.Again he let it go.He checked the anchors, made sure the wheelhouse was tight and the radiators were working.The dory was safe on her davits and wouldn¡¯t be damaged by the wind and snow.Taking a final look over the railing at the inky black water, he heard footsteps behind him.¡°A cold night Will, it¡¯s warmer below.¡± Jeri said in a low voice.¡°I know it is¡±, he paused and then ¡°I don¡¯t think I can be who you want me too, not yet, maybe not ever.¡± he replied, ¡°I¡¯m sorry Jeri, you¡¯re a good person, anyone would be lucky to be with you.¡±.She put her arms around him from behind, ¡°You don¡¯t have to be sorry for loving someone, I can wait, I will wait if you think it would be possible between us.I know you think it¡¯s rushed but I just knew when I saw you.¡±.He could feel the truth in her words.She turned and faced him ¡°You don¡¯t have to decide now, I don¡¯t want to push my way into your life, the lives of your daughters.I¡¯ll be here.Reaching up with a soft kiss on his cheek, then the other, ¡°I¡¯ll be here¡±.She turned away, and went belowdecks, leaving Will to his memories.


    He stayed for a little while until the cold was too much, and went below, sealing the doors.Hanging his gear up the went to his cabin to find Minnie was already on the bed.¡°Hi dad¡±, she seemed sad.¡°What¡¯s up, you feeling okay¡±, he asked worriedly.¡°Nah I¡¯m fine but how are you, is Jeri going to be on the boat with us too, she¡¯s okay you know, very brave and tough, pretty too.¡±.Aha he thought.¡°No sweetie, it¡¯s not going to happen.I am happy with the life we have now, couldn¡¯t be more satisfied.And she doesn¡¯t like the water, scared of it.It would be hard on her to try to get over it, not fair.¡±, he said to Minnie.¡°She told me and Naomi she really likes you, and us. She didn¡¯t want to be sneaky, that¡¯s not how her people are.¡± Minnie told him.Will rolled his tired shoulders ¡°I know, they are good folk, I¡¯ll be happy to visit a couple of times a year to trade, but that¡¯s all.What we have is enough for me, I have had the love of my life with your mom, my dearest memories are of her.¡±.He pulled Min into a hug ¡°This is enough for me, now and forever.¡±.

 Going Down

    Chapter 14Going Down


    After a refreshing nights sleep the crew was up early.Going on deck to check the boat Will was pleasantly surprised to fine the sun out and, while not warm at least not freezing to death cold.Which was great for the villagers, currently eating oatmeal in the mess.They were going to be ferried to shore as soon as they ate, lots of work ahead for them.The Rose was going to head back north and pick up a second load of people, bring them here.Repeat this for the next few days until everyone was here, except for the hold out Eld.Hopefully the new burrows would be ready soon, winters grip was just coming to this land.Starting to shiver Will headed below, not really dressed for standing around.


    The mess was quiet, everyone was finished eating and had dressed in their furs.Carrying their supplies for the next few days and their tools and weapons there was a long line heading up the stairs to the deck.They were one boat short now so Will dropped the folder and all the bags and packs were tossed in.Minnie and Naomi had put the dory in the water, pulled it around to the stairs and the villagers gingerly got in, after scanning for waiting sharps.Settling at the oars Minniestroked fast for shore, Will followed and it was definitely not a competition.Even though Minnie did a victory dance when she won, nope, not a competition.The young people spread out on the shore, thankful to be away from the water.It was likely they would never go near or on the lake again, more than likely, more like a 100 percent surety.


    The herds had responded again to the steam whistle and were hovering near a stand of trees.Several of the young people had started constructing holding pens and paddocks already.There were a lot more trees here than where they had lived. Will had quickly unloaded the smaller boat and piled all the supplies nearer to land than water.Minnie had made her rounds of goodbyes and was waiting by the beached dory.Tor stepped up ¡°Captain, we have something for you and crew.Worked on it last night, in secret while you snored.¡±.Minnie and Naomi stifled a laugh, but nodded in agreement.¡°I do not snore.¡±, Will said ¡°I just dream that I¡¯m a steam engine.¡±.This time there were no stifled laughs, just a straight out belly laugh from both of them, followed by the villagers.After they settled down Tor continued ¡°We made this for you and for us too, to remember this trip.¡±.He opened his furs to reveal he was wearing a sharps tooth necklace, in fact they all were. Jeri reached in her pouch and too out three more, placing one around Naomi¡¯s neck, one around Minnie¡¯s.The last was for Will, as she placed it around his neck he could see reddish threads mixed in with the rawhide.¡°Your hair.¡±, he said, not a question.She nodded ¡°To remember us, for you this was one trip of many you have taken but for me it¡¯sthe only one I¡¯ll ever have.¡±.He held the tooth in his hand, feeling the hard edges, the feel of the rawhide and the smoothness of the long red strands that had been woven around.¡°Thank you Jeri, I will treasure this forever. And I wish¡­¡±, he sighed.She threw her arms around him for a long hug, then pulled away, rubbing her hand over her face, ¡°I understand Will, I just wish too.¡±. Standing beside her Tor raised his hand ¡°Thanks for the ride and the excitement captain, I won¡¯t forget this trip.¡±.


    Din shouted ¡°And what a trip it was, I found out about oatmeal, I love it.¡±.Minnie just shook her head in disgust, what a guy.There was one more thing Will unloaded from the dory before they pushed off.He lifted another barrel of the emergency rations, ¡°Just in case we¡¯re late returning, a blizzard or something else. It¡¯s a few days of food, and oatmeal for Din.¡±.Tor and Arnon lugged the barrel to where the tents were being set up.There was lots for them to do and they were eager to get going.With a wave the crew cast off ¡°See you in two days¡±, called Naomi and they were off.


    The return to the Rose was quick and they had the boats up and tight, anchors pulled and were steaming away in just a few minutes.It was almost like they knew what to do.Gathering in the wheelhouse, with a hastily fetched teapot and juice jug, there was a odd mood.It was unnaturally quiet, so Will decided the air needed clearing a bit.¡°Yes, she¡¯s very pretty, but I still consider myself married.I might look like a younger man but inside I am still a slightly crotchety old guy.For a minute I thought why not, but no it¡¯s not gonna happen, okay?¡±.Naomi was a bit pensive ¡°You told me if I ever found someone they would be welcome to join us, I can¡¯t dislike someone that you choose.¡±.She did have a point, Will thought, except for one thing.¡°I look around 35, a year from now I will look 35, same for a hundred years from now, two hundred years the same.¡±, he sighed.¡°So when I check my menu it says my age is stabilizing, when it¡¯s done then I¡¯m set, forever?Like you?¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°Cause I am still only six years old, that better change, I am not a little.¡±.Will nodded ¡° Yes, I¡¯m very sure it will Min, this is who we are now, you too Naomi..¡±.She nodded ¡°I thought so, it¡¯s kinda scary, the thought of living that long.¡±.¡°It is,¡± Will agreed ¡°But we just don¡¯t age, I don¡¯t know about diseases, accidents could still happen too.We don¡¯t talk about this much because it¡¯s,¡±, he searched for what he felt, ¡°Frightening but exciting, I¡¯m looking forward to those years with you both.¡±.¡°Me too dad, you know I¡¯ll always be with you.¡± said Minnie, ¡°Oh yes, I feel the same way, it¡¯s just a lot.¡± Naomi added.


    After this talk they were all a bit tired, drawn out, feeling raw.So Naomi went below for a rest and to start a evening meal.Lunch would be a ¡®whatever you can find¡¯ meal.Which suited Minnie just fine, same for Will.Big meals were a lot of work and besides, he missed barbecuing on the bow, or fish fry¡¯s.This weather it was not a good idea to be standing on the bow in the snow, the wind and the freezing spray, cooking.Besides they had no fresh meat to make burgers anyway.Absently he poured another cuppa, doodling in his notebook as Minnie kept an eye on their course.They were staying in view of the coast and after a few hours at full speed came across a sight on shore.The current had brought all the frozen sharpcarcasses and washed them ashore, the beach was strewn with them.All sizes, from three feet to over twenty.Minnie steered them close and they slowed down for a closer look.Will whistled down and Naomi came up for a look too.¡°Horrible things.¡±, she said.¡°Yeah they are¡±, Minnie added ¡°We got them good though, next time it¡¯s gonna be arrows though, pew pew in the eye.¡±.Will laughed ¡°I wish we had though of that first, less of a mess.¡±.Going back to full speed and heading out further again.They had many miles to go.


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    It was nearly full dark when they called it a day.Currently anchored in a slightly protected cove about fifty yards off shore.The anchors hadn¡¯t gone that deep before they hit bottom.They had dug in right away and stopped the slight drift towards shore, they had reversed just to make sure but it was a good catch.The boat was safe for the night.After a quick deck walk around Will and Minnie went down the stairs and revelled in the warmth.The wheelhouse was okay, not too cold but there was a lot of glass, single pane windows don¡¯t keep a lot of heat in.¡°Maybe we could figure out double pane glass, it would be a lot warmer.¡±, he remarked as they removed coats and over pants.Their one piececoveralls were still drying after a very thorough washing.The thick quilted material with leather reinforcement and an inner woolly liner were very warm and windproof but took forever to dry.Even after hanging in the engine room for a day, there were still damp spots.Tomorrow morning they would be ready to wear though.All the crew had other, just as warm gear, but not as hardy.These were very durable and next time they hit Newton Will planned on getting two more sets for each of them.Boots too.He remembered some winter boots he had years ago.Huge things with two thick felt liners, a good inch and a half of dense felt kept his feet warm forever.The cobbler would be busy.


    ¡°Oh good, I was just about to send out a search party, thought you guys got lost.¡±, Naomi said as they entered.The crew table was the only one up now, the others all stored away for next time.Chairs stacked and tied in place, the room was both bigger and cosier at the same time.Only a single lantern was burning as well, so shadows danced in the far corners of the room.Dinner was on the table, and what a meal it was.A fine meatloaf liberally stuffed with cheese, fried potatoes and carrots dripping butter.The savoury smell was enough to get Wills mouth watering and Minnie¡¯s stomach made a long rumbling growl of anticipation.¡°Looks great Naomi¡±, Will said, helping himself and dodging Minnie¡¯s hands as she cut a large slice of the meat, ¡°oh yeah, this is wonderful, I was sick of oatmeal.¡±, she said while stuffing in a bite.Naomi laughed, ¡°I had to do something with the sharps left on deck, they turned out well hmmm?¡±.Minnie stopped in mid chew, eyes wide, ¡°You didn¡¯t, did you, not really, cause this is great, dad help me out here, did you really really Naomi?¡±.¡°No, I didn¡¯t.Just salt pork, but it was funny.¡±, Naomi told her.Min growled but continued eating, ¡°Can you eat them¡±, she asked.¡°In the old world you couldn¡¯t eat certain sharks, different name but mostly the same.These ones are like great whites, very aggressive and dangerous.They had too much of a mineral called mercury, make you real sick.¡± Will answered.


    After their meal and cleanup Will did a few chores, just puttering about the boat, tidying this, arranging that.Minnie and Naomi were playing their instruments together in the mess and the sounds drifted through the ship, along with happy laughter now and then.At times like this he wished he was musical but nope, not a musical bone in his body.Finished with the harpoons, each had been sharpened and lightly oiled, their lines checked and re tied if need be.Hung up and ready for the next time.When he had found them first it was just a messy rusty bundle of iron and rope, reprehensible.¡°Magnus was a slob¡±, he muttered.It wasn¡¯t the last thing he had to get back into shape either.The fishing nets were just as bad, it had taken him and Minnie days of work to get them into shape.Fiddling away with them while in the wheelhouse or while drifting under the stars, in the early days of their voyages.Same with coils of rope, lengths of extra anchor chain, fishing rods, toolboxes, in fact just about everything had been let go.A horrible state of affairs.It had taken him a few weeks but the boat had become shipshape.Still made him smile, it¡¯s the little things, he thought.


    After he had done a few needed chores it was, of course, time for tea.The music had stopped but not the laughter and he paused outside the mess to take a moment to enjoy life.¡°Hey dad, tea time already?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°It¡¯s always tea time Min.¡±, laughed Naomi.He settled at the table with a grunt and a sigh of happiness finding a hot pot of tea waiting, ¡°Long day guys, some busy ones coming too.I¡¯m for bed after this.¡±.Minnie yawned and agreed ¡°Yeah, me too.¡±.Naomi just nodded and began to tidy the mess, she felt about here and the galley like Will did, has to be done right.This, more than any other part of the boat, was where she felt the most comfortable.Her ¡®Homemaker¡¯ skill was showing in the pride and care she took here.This was the heart, where decisions were made, where family came together, guests entertained.More yawns showed it was bed time indeed, so with good nights and sleep tights Will and Minnie hit the big cabin and Naomi to hers.


    For once he got the head first and quickly took care of his night routine.Minnie was waiting rather impatiently and rushed in, ¡°There¡¯s another head in crew quarters you know.¡±, he called with a laugh.¡°Yeah¡±, came the reply ¡°But this one is the right size for me.¡±.True, he thought, he had added a couple of stools to make life easier for her.Pulling back the blankets he realized something horrible ¡°I forgot the hot water bottles, the bed sheets are cold.¡±.A squeak of indignation came through the door, ¡°You¡¯re fired.¡±.He picked up the cold bottles and trudged tiredly to the galley and first emptied the cold water into the water pack on the wood stove, for tomorrow.Then to the engine room and filled both bottles from the hot reserve.Finally to the cabin again, to be intercepted by Naomi, who opened her door and looked at the nice hot water bottle with big sad eyes.¡°You forgot too?¡±.She nodded sadly ¡°Yeah, but I¡¯ll be all right, I don¡¯t mind cold feet, don¡¯t worry about me.¡±, with a laugh he tossed the hot one to her and took her icy one.Opened his cabin door, gave the other hot to Minnie and went back and filled the other.Walking back Naomi¡¯s door opened again, he clutched his bottle to his chest, ¡°No, my precious, you can¡¯t have it.¡±.She just gave him a hug, ¡°Night dad, thanks for the warm feet.¡±, and closed her door again.Going into the main cabin he found Minnie in bed already, feet resting near the heat.The radiators were ticking away, keeping the room warm.He hit his pillow, turned off the lantern, ¡°Goodnight sweetie, it was a good day today.¡±.He searched for and found her little hand and held it as he drifted off, ¡°Night dad, every day is a good one.¡±.

 Ferry Tales

    Chapter 15. Ferry Tales


    Will rose early the next day and started getting ready to get moving.Lighting the stove for the day, making sure there was kindling in the galley, starting the boiler pressuring, boiling the kettle.All the important stuff.Minnie was still sleeping, as was Naomi but that was okay.Sometimes it¡¯s nice to have a lie in.Sitting in the mess waiting for the kettle he mulled over the days work.Steam to the burrows, pick up another load of people, then just as quickly back to the new site.They had enough food, but it wouldn¡¯t be fancy, they were going to bake bread today, and from the way the work crew had loved it then it would be a hit.Apparently bread made with yeast was an unknown here, it was always unleavened bread, and quite rare.There was a very quick growing season, just four months long, and wild grains would be harvested.Used for flat breads like tortillas,however the supplies wouldn¡¯t last.When the relocation was complete perhaps their lifestyle would change to more farming.They would have to for survival.


    As he nursed his tea and thought about everything and nothing, Minnie popped in, bright eyed and bushy tailed¡­literally.Dressed in shorts and a sleeveless shirt, yellow hat of course and flip flops.¡°Planning on freezing today, are we?¡± Will asked.¡°Nah, just wanted to be comfy, I¡¯ll toss my other stuff on over and I¡¯ll be good.¡± she answered.Naomi came in right after, dressed the same, she and Minnie stared at each other for a second or two then burst out laughing.¡°Nice outfit Min.¡±, she said.¡°You too.¡±, Minnie replied.Will had poured a mug of hot apple juice for her and she drank it slowly.¡°Sure do miss milk you know, do you think the reindeer¡¯s gave any when we left?¡±.Will shrugged, ¡°I know they don¡¯t give much, they probably won¡¯t get any until they are set up.¡±.Minnie sighed, ¡°I know we¡¯ll be back at Laketown or Newton soon enough but I miss lots of things you know.¡±.¡°Me too.¡±, Will agreed.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be a long day, I don¡¯t think we should do a layover, just pick up and head back.You guys okay with that?¡± Will asked after they had eaten.¡°Like full steam ahead woohoo quick, or trundle along at half speed and get there next year quick?¡±, Minnie was hopeful.¡°Nope full speed, the lakes not too rough I think, and we don¡¯t get seasick anymore .¡±, they looked at Naomi.¡°It was just a couple of times and the boat was swinging around, bouncing over the waves, dipping side to side, makes me yucky just thinking about it¡±, Naomi said defensively.¡°Yeah it was a pretty rough day, I remember that.¡±, Will said.¡°Oh, did you get sick too?¡±, Naomi asked.¡°Me?No I never get sea sick, I love the rolling.If you stand on the bow and jump up as she dips it feels like your flying.¡± Will added.With that, seeing everyone had finished, he gathered the dishes and started washing them.Naomi and Minnie went to get their outerwear on and start the boat ready for travelling.


    It didn¡¯t take long to clean up the galley, then Will too was readying for bad weather, at least cold weather.Hmm, he thought, if it¡¯s always cold and snowing it¡¯s not really bad anymore.Pulling on the thick coveralls another thought hit him.¡°Hey Minnie¡±, he called.¡°Yeah?¡± she was in the engine room, just finishing up loading coal with Naomi and turning the boiler up to pressure.¡°Is it overalls or coveralls, I always called them coveralls, but it could be both.¡±, Will said.¡°I think that you think too much.¡±, Naomi said as she pulled on her coveralls, tucked them into her boots and donned her hat and gloves.¡°Got that right.¡±, Minnie was dressing too now, it had been much too hot in the engine room.Stepping in to her coveralls, and doing the buttons up, sealing the wind flap, hat and gloves after boots.¡°Yeah but, it¡¯s good to get things right, isn¡¯t it?¡±, Will was now talking to himself as the two had left him behind, ¡°Well it is.¡±, he muttered and dressed quickly.


    The wind on deck was a bit brutal, and after the boat got up to speed it would freeze any exposed flesh.He walked to the bow and quickly cranked up the anchors, had to yank a bit to release the port but the starboard was stuck fast.He waved to get Minnie¡¯s attention, then got her to reverse engine to pull it free.It took a back and forth for a few minutes but did finally pull free and cranked up as well.¡°Full ahead Min, we got miles and miles to go.¡±.The boat surged, bow lifting and cutting through the waves easily.The waves were pretty high today, at least twelve feet so travel was going to be fun.This part of the lake was becoming more like the North Sea back on their other world, cold and unforgiving.Around Laketown and Newton it was more Pacific Ocean, peaceful with more life.But the waves didn¡¯t bother the Rose much, she steamed along, up and over for hours, crew safe inside.And yes, Minnie and Naomi tried jumping on the bow, roped up for safety of course, it was a bit like flying.


    As the hours passed the land passed by, features showing that they had missed in the dark last trip.Huge glacial rocks tumbled in valleys, like children¡¯s toys.Small forests of fir trees, giant fir trees, from what he could tell they were at least four hundred feet tall.Untouched and always would be, living until a lightning strike or other natural disaster toppled them. In the distance behind, using a telescope, he could see more, marching up the side of the far mountains.An awesome sight.¡°Come look guys.¡±, Minnie and Naomi came out of the warm wheelhouse and were fascinated by the giant trees.¡°Is that a heartwood dad?¡±, Minnie asked after looking for a long time.Wow, Will had never thought of that.Naomi was looking through a telescope as well and pointed to a spot far far inland.¡°That one might be, just keep looking to the left of that grey rock, the one the size of us.¡±.It took Minnie and Will a minute but then they saw what she had spied.A tree, but like nothing he had ever seen.A type of fir definitely but this was a golden colour, the trunk anyway.The branches were green, but again with a yellow or gold tinge.Dwarfing the others around , it must have been closer to six hundred feet high.¡°The trunk must be massive, forty feet in diameter at least.¡±, Will was in awe of this beauty.If they had the time he would have happily gone hiking to see this monster.¡°Maybe when we start coming up here regularly, I¡¯m going to go visit that tree, see if it¡¯s a heartwood.¡±, he said.¡°Oh yeah, I¡¯m coming¡±, Minnie said, ¡°Well yeah, of course me too.¡±, added Naomi.


    After the cold got to them, they retreated back inside, Minnie and Will anyway.Naomi went below decks to start some bread going, to was too rough for cooking much of anything too wet.¡°Too bad, but no stew today dad, I like it a bunch you know, not soup too much though, it slides through my teeth, unless it¡¯s really thick but then it¡¯s stew, weird right.¡± Minnie mused.¡° I know what you mean.Some soups good, reminds me of years past.Tomato soup and peanut butter sandwiches, your mom and me ate that a lot.People used to call it comfort food.¡±, Will remembered aloud ¡°That and grilled cheese, she liked those.¡±.Minnie nodded ¡°We have those too, I like ¡®em for lunch.¡±.


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    While they talked of food Will was doodling and writing in his notebook.Thinking of a trip to see that giant tree.Huge sleds with supplies, tents, wood stoves for heat and cooking.The crew would have no problem making the trek, he only had one concern.The boat, where to leave her?Just anchoring unattended was a recipe for disaster.It looked like they would have to build a dock first or ¡°That would be a lot of work.¡±, Minnie had been reading over his shoulder.¡°What about digging a trench from the lake and just floating into it, or go up a river as far as we could?¡±, she asked.Quickly drawing out what she meant.What was excellent about her drawing was that there were always people with hats, either on the boat or watching from shore.Little stick figures at first but now a bit more lifelike.Some had long ears and tails, some moustaches, and some had longish hair, it was enchanting.But her idea did have some good points but it might be difficult to dig a trench without heavy equipment.¡°We could find a river and block part of it, put the Rose safely there.¡±, Naomi had joined them, ¡°Or get really long thick iron bars, hammer them in the ground and chain to them, we could drive them in pretty deep.¡±, she flexed her slender arm.¡°Do both maybe.¡±, added Will, ¡°We might be able to talk the burrow guys into making us a dock.An easy one, rocks dumped in, make like a finger pointing in.¡±. Minnie sighed, took the pen from his hand, re-inked and drew exactly what he was thinking, complete with a small Minnie waving at him from the rocks.


    After spending a bit in the wheelhouse watching waves go up and down and up and down Naomi went below decks.The motion was both more and less here.Cooking was impossible, couldn¡¯t even boil the kettle in seas like this.Naomi had planned to bake but it wasn¡¯t going to happen.There was enough bread for a sandwich for lunch and dinner, just not enough for the incoming passengers but that could be taken care of when they anchored later.Naomi busied herself by readying the two crew quarters, in case anyone was seasick or just needed a break.She made sure to put extra buckets around just in case.The mess was quickly set up, but the chairs were sliding around too much.The tables had latches to lock them in place in bad weather, but the chairs and benches were free spirits.Back on the brackets they went.Then to the galley to whip up a few sandwiches, sliced ham and cheese and the redressed to go up top again.¡°Not liking winter much.¡±, she muttered, struggling back into heroveralls, boot and everything.


    Carrying her basket of goodies, when she got to the wheelhouse, shepherd found Minnie napping and Will at the con.¡°Hey sweetie, brisk outside huh.¡±.Snorting a laugh, she put the basket on the map table, and then rescued it when a particularly large wave came at them.Looking at Minnie, Will said ¡°I don¡¯t know how she sleeps through this, it¡¯s so much fun.¡±.He missed the look Naomi gave him as he tucked Minnie¡¯s blanket tighter around her.¡°Fun he says.¡±, she laughed, handing him a thick slice of buttered bread with ham and cheese.The smell of the tangy cheese woke Minnie, stretching with a barking yawn, ¡°Hey, it¡¯s lunch time.¡±.Naomi handed her a identical sandwich and then took her own, sitting between the other two.¡°I haven¡¯t seen waves like this before, even in storms, back at Laketown I mean.¡± Naomi said looking out.Will nodded, mouth filled with bread, after swallowing he said ¡°It¡¯s pretty wild, when we pick up another group we¡¯re going to stay closer to shore, calmer there.¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be much fun for them huh.¡±.


    The hours passed on the rough waters but finally the familiar cairn was in sight.As they closed, the waters were indeed calmer, just two or three foot swells now.Much easier to deal with.The stoves were lighted, kettle put on the boil and tea finally made, along with coffee.Minnie still didn¡¯t care for either so a pan of apple juice was warmed up for her.It was very sweet,good though and very warming after working outside for any time.During the trip up the coast Naomi had managed to prepare the bread dough and now started a few loaves baking in each oven.The smell of bread moved through the boats rooms and finally up to the wheelhouse.¡°Oh yum, I love smelling that, feels like home.¡± Will said sniffing.Minnie giggled, ¡°I smelled that a long time ago, I was waiting to see how long it took you.¡±.


    The Rose was anchored fairly close to shore again and Minnie laid on the steam whistle and the fog horn.Just to let people know they were here and to start getting the next group ready.¡°Let¡¯s give them an hour or so, then we¡¯ll head in and gather them up.¡±, Will said as they shivered their way to the stairs and hurried below.Compared to the harsh winds and subzero temperatures above this was pure heaven.Pulling off the heavy outerwear was great too, gave them time to breathe a little easier.Their felt slippers were warming cold feet very nicely and Will sank into his chair in the galley, Minnie beside him.Naomi was still busy in the galley but came in to sit while the oven cooled.She had managed to get ten loaves baked on the last leg of the trip.¡°Wow, that¡¯s a lotta bread, are ya hungry?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°It¡¯s for the next load of people, dad said they never get this so it¡¯s a treat, and just maybe the mirror girls will be here too.¡±, Naomi replied.Minnie let out a gasp ¡°Really?They¡¯re funny.¡±.


    They passed an hour in a couple of games of crib, Will actually won one game which hardly ever happened anymore.Finishing his lukewarm tea he went to his cabin and used the head, put on long underwear and woollen pants, undershirt and sweater.Minnie joined him and did the same, ¡°Hope it¡¯s not too windy dad, lucky I have fur, you¡¯re gonna get colder.¡±.¡°Well I could grow a full beard like Dave in Newton, and long hair like Naomi, what do you think?¡±, he asked, posing in front of the mirror.She thought for a moment, ¡°Nah, you¡¯re better bald and your tiny lip beard.¡±.Tiny lip beard indeed, ¡°I used to have long hair, down to here¡±, he gestured to halfway down his chest, ¡°and a full beard nearly as long.¡±.¡°So why did you get rid of it, that would have been cool, like a real pirate.¡±.Thinking back, ¡°It was a super hot day and we were having a yard sale, I was sitting in the driveway behind our house, just dying in the heat.I couldn¡¯t take it so I asked mom to watch for a minute or two and I went in and shaved it all off.¡±.He could still remember how she screamed when he came back, she thought he was a stranger for a minute.¡°I¡¯ve been bald ever since, easier for me.¡±, he shrugged.


    Finally ready and dressed warmer the got to the stairs to find Naomi waiting.She helped them dress, patted them both on the shoulder and sent them on the way with a cheery ¡°Hurry back.¡±.Climbing the stairs, each holding a lantern, they exited to a dark deck, Will hurried and lit the mid deck lights giving ample light to see bye.On the shore they could see torches and a fire by the cairn, ¡°I think they know we¡¯re coming.¡±, Will said over the wind.¡°I hope so, otherwise this could be awkward.¡±, Minnie shot back.They dropped the dory down and lowered the remaining small boat.No supplies this time, just empty to hold them all.The seas were still calmer and it only took a few minutes to row ashore.


    As they landed willing hands pulled the boats up on the beach.There were at least fifty people waiting , Will hoped they didn¡¯t think this many could go, but then he noticed that some were carrying bundles and bags, others weren¡¯t.Without the burden of luggage, they could jam them all in, but it would be tight.Standing out from people he didn¡¯t know were several familiar faces, the rest of the Obb family.Minnie spotted them too and went over ¡°Hi guys, you coming now too?¡±.The little girls nodded, for once quiet and solemn, cowering beside their large brother and parents.Will noticed several more children in the group that was coming with.Katya saw him looking, ¡°It¡¯s getting worse here, food is scarce so the babies are coming now.¡±.There was an indignant squawk from the twins ¡°We¡¯re not babies ma.¡± said Oona, Katya sighed.¡°Well let¡¯s climb aboard, we¡¯ve miles to go and the lakes rough further out, it¡¯ll be a trip to remember.¡±, Will called out.Minnie took the little girls by the hand and helped them into the dory with their parents, ¡°You guys ride with me, I won¡¯t let the lake eat you.¡±.

 There and Back Again

    Chapter 16. There and Back Again


    Minnie carefully helped the little girls onto her boat, chattering a mile a minute with them.About fishies, shrimp, big waves, going swimming, all the things she loved about being a sailor.Other parents, seeing how comfortable she made the twins, came with their children to be with her too.Will was loading the smaller boat with the various bags and bales of supplies these passengers had.There were thirty people travelling this time, Will would have to come back for the rest while Minnie and Naomi protected the first lot.¡°I¡¯ll be back for you in a few minutes.¡± Will said, pushing first the dory and the the folder into the icy water.Minnie quickly rowed towards the Rose, Will followed a bit slower.There was a big load on this little boat, piled a bit high.Don¡¯t want to turn turtle, he thought.Taking it slow he reached the boat safely and began tossing the load onto the deck.When the boat was empty he quickly pulled it up and onto the deck.Min had shepherded the people below and he went below to take stock.Everyone was in the mess, having a warming tea or juice and toasted bread and cheese.The children were in a bit of shock, the youngest not really understanding what was happening.¡°I¡¯m going for the rest guys, back in a flash.¡±, Will told Minnie and Naomi.


    Returning to deck he stepped in to the waiting boat and took off back to shore.It was a matter of a few minutes to load up the waiting passengers, bid the others goodbye and head back.He helped them on deck then boarded himself, and helped them down to the warm mess.Minnie had made the children at home, and was sitting with them talking and laughing.The adults seemed nervous and happy to be moving on, but the idea of water travel was terrifying.¡°We¡¯re getting underway in a little while, it will be a fairly long trip, about a day I think.¡±, he announced, ¡°Try to relax, you¡¯re safe on the Rose with us.¡±.Beckoning to Minnie, ¡°Let¡¯s get cracking.¡±.Leaving the mess in Naomi¡¯s capable hands they once more climbed to the main deck.¡°Brrr dad, it¡¯s getting colder huh.¡±, said Minnie with a shiver.¡°Yeah it is,¡± Will agreed, ¡°You go ahead and get into the wheelhouse, start prepping, and turn that radiator up huh?¡±.Minnie saluted and took off, lantern bobbing along.The mid deck light was on still, but it was full dark now, the sun was long gone.He tied the dory to the davits and pulled the boat up and locked it in place, then to the bow and pulled the anchors.This time they came up easier, no wiggling around needed.He lighted the bow lantern and the light spread out a bit, not enough to pilot by though.That would be all compass work tonight.They took headings as a matter of fact now, whenever a course change was made it was recorded.So as long as they followed these headings, in reverse and kept to the same speed they would end up in the right place.The navigation skill was a remarkable thing.It made tasks like this easy.


    Going into the warm wheelhouse was lovely.Still not as warm as below, darn single pane, but quite comfortable.Minnie had taken off her thick coveralls and had a jacket ready to put on if need be, still wearing warm woollen pants, and boots of course.¡°Okay, sweetie, let¡¯s head out.¡± he said as he relaxed in his big chair.¡°Aye aye.¡±, and she pushed the throttle, slowly in creasing to half speed and turning the boat back out to sea.¡°We¡¯ll take this heading for half an hour, then start south.¡±, Minnie said, checking the chart in front of them.The watch, kept in a protective case, was Minnie¡¯s duty to wind every day.She still wanted to take it apart and try to copy it, but it was just a matter of finding time, and calm enough water to do it in.So far, that had not happened.It would someday, no hurry.


    As they pulled away from the shore the waves started to build again, six to eight feet high, no whitecaps yet, which was a good thing.These were bad enough.Will pulled the cap off of the mess voice tube and gave a whistle.It took just a moment but Naomi answered.¡°Hello up there, waves picked up hmm?¡±.He laughed ¡°Gee, how did you guess.How is everything, do you need Minnie or me down there?¡±.No, most visitors have gone to sleep, or try to anyways.The little ones too, mostly.I am just visiting with Katya and Therd, Cal too.¡± she replied.¡°Righto, call us up if needed, we¡¯re going to be busy for awhile.¡±, and he capped off the tube.¡°All quiet below dad?¡±, Minnie asked.She had a good grip on the wheel and was correcting the course as needed.The wind had come up and the spray from the bow waves was freezing on the glass in front.If this kept up Will was going to have to go out and knock the ice off.Too much buildup was not safe.


    And here he was, not half an hour later, knocking ice build up off of the bow railings, anchor windlasses and chains.Mostly at the bow but the side railings were getting very thick too.The trip up had not been this bad, high seas but the wind hadn¡¯t been this high.As he went around the boat, knocking off clumps of ice, a thought hit him.Why not a steam line, to melt it quickly.He quickly dismissed this idea, it would take a lot of water to keep any kind of pressure.Their boiler was efficient but it might be better to construct a smaller simpler one for this problem.Then again, he thought, I don¡¯t want to be messing around with a high pressure steam line, on a slippery deck, at night, on eight foot waves.Maybe when we stop and drop off, or anchor closer in for a meal, we¡¯ll see then.


    Job done he went belowdecks to check in.It was quiet, more so than he thought it would be.He found Naomi in the mess, Katya and Therd had retired but Cal was still visiting.¡°Hey dad¡±, Naomi looked up as he came in, ¡°Pretty rough up top tonite huh?¡±.He laughed ¡°Oh yeah, it¡¯s fun for sure.¡±.She handed him a tray with some covered dishes, ¡°I put this together for you guys, but couldn¡¯t bring it up.¡±.¡°Thanks, we were getting a bit peckish, there was a few biscuits left but you know Minnie.¡±.She laughed.Hefting the tray he headed back to the stairs.It was very cold and very slippery walking back to the wheelhouse, but he made it okay.As he entered with the tray Minnie cheered ¡°Food!That¡¯s wonderful dad, I am starving to pieces.¡±.Setting the tray on the map table, he kicked the door shut behind him.¡°Pretty cold out Min, wet and slippery, stay in here tonight k?¡±.¡°Oh yeah¡±, she answered ¡°That¡¯s all for you.¡±.


    The radiators were hissing and crackling as they heated up the wheelhouse, warming it up after the blast of cold air.Will unbuttoned his coveralls but kept them on as he would probably be outside again.Turning his attention to the tray of food he found a few sandwiches, half of a cake and some cookies, and best of all a flask of warming tea for him and one of juice for Minnie.For the next little while they enjoyed their food, while remembering the warmer days, barbecuing on the bow, shrimp feasts, going swimming.¡°After this trip is done, we¡¯re going back south where it¡¯s warmer.I¡¯ve had enough of the cold.¡±, Will said after drinking his tea.¡°I¡¯d love that.¡±, Minnie said ¡°Nice people here but it¡¯s just too chilly all the time.¡±.Will nodded ¡°We¡¯ll add it to the trade route, twice a year maybe, one trip when things are warming and another just before this time of year.¡±.Minnie shrugged, ¡°It wouldn¡¯tbe so bad, but we¡¯re doing four or five trips for these guys, and giving them a lot of our trade stuff.¡±.¡°I know, it¡¯s going to be a tough few days, worth it though, to help.¡±, Will smiled at his first mate, grumbling away about frozen tails, no milk, can¡¯t wear her favourite hat, stupid ice.He patted her shoulder ¡°We¡¯ll get through it, but now I¡¯m gonna check the ice.¡±.Buttoning up and putting on hat and gloves again, it was time to brave the outdoors.


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    This time the ice wasn¡¯t so thick.Just a few clumps on the anchor chains, but the rest didn¡¯t need cleaning yet.The Rose had a low profile and there wasn¡¯t too much danger of capsizing from extra weight.She had a deep hull, made for seas like this and the spray was now really only building up on the wheelhouse which stood ten feet above the main deck.Going back inside ¡°We¡¯re good on the ice, you want a break on the wheel?Curl up for a while maybe?¡±.Min thought that was a good idea and turned the wheel over to him, made a nest of pillows and blankets and laid down with a yawn, ¡°Tell me a story, helps me sleep dad.¡±.


    Will thought for a moment.¡°When I was a teenager I rode my bike everywhere.I worked part time packing groceries at the local store and saved my money for a new fifteen speed racing bike.A BRC semipro, I still remember the name, it was bright orange and chrome.¡±.It was like yesterday, walking into Apollos bike shop on 14th street.He had taken the bus from home and it was a pretty long trip, transferred twice but finally got here.He had of course stopped at the used book store just across the road, just to look and ended up with a backpack full of some great used books.Mostly science fiction, that was what he mostly read at that age.But back to the bike shop.Walking in he was recognized by the clerk and was beckoned over.The bike he had ordered was waiting for him behind the counter.A special order and he had to pay for it before he picked up.Atwo week wait and his mom and dad thought he was silly to have done that. In fact his mother called him an idiot, that had stuck in his mind ever since.


    The store had polished and waxed her, what a beauty she was.Side pull alloy brakes, golden chain, alloy wheels and narrow racing tyres.Pulling his bike license out of his back pack he fixed it to the loops on the seat.Thanking the clerk who had helped him he rolled the bike out the front door and mounted up.It rode like a dream, responsive and quick to shift, no clatter or pull.¡°I rode that bike for the next four years, everywhere.To school, to work and on the weekends we went everywhere.My best friend was from another country, Holland, and his family didn¡¯t drive cars much.They rode bikes, everywhere.¡±.Minnie was snoring by now, she had quickly dropped off but that was okay.Thinking back to the endless summers when he was a young boy, then a teen and finally growing up and away from things like his bike.Getting into cars, a full time job, meeting his wife, kids, houses, schools.Wow, he thought, it¡¯s been a busy life.


    Speaking of busy, the wheel was not exactly hard to hold but needed constant adjustments.Checking the course they were about six hours from, hmm what to call it.New Burrows, or the Holes, nope not either of those.Maybe just the Burrows, but they were the new ones.That is if they could actually dig there.Hopefully the rock was the same, or the advance team had found caves.Time would tell he thought.The Burrows it would have to be then, and he marked it on the chart.The other place would just be the pickup zone, or maybe the Cairn.Yeah, he liked that.So that was marked down too.


    As they steamed south the winds tapered off and so did the waves.Only three or four feet now and much easier on the passengers.Minnie had woken after a couple of hours and taken the wheel again.Will sighed and dressed in his winter gear again and went outside to check ice build up and see if he could scavenge a cuppa.He had to spread sand outside the door, on the steps and along the deck.It was pretty slippery and he nearly came a cropper a couple of times before making the stairs.Opening the doors the smell of belowdecks hit him, not terrible but enough to let him know that people were up and about.The corridors were a bit messy with furs and boots spread around.A few toys had escaped from crew quarters and it was an odd sight indeed.Entering the mess he found most of the adults sitting around the long tables enjoying more toasted bread and cheese.The little ones were happily eating oatmeal with raisins, again a treat they never got.The adults seemed to relax as he neared, releasing a tension they didn¡¯t know they had.It was the lake effect working on them.Naomi¡¯s presence dulled it a certain amount and Wills even more, but eventually it would overcome them.And the odd thing was that it seemed to affect some quicker than others.The children were fine, as usual.But the quicker they made the Burrows, the better.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be docking in a few hours, don¡¯t worry, the worse part is over.Much calmer now and not as cold.¡±, Will announced.Therd spoke up ¡°It was pretty bad captain, all we could do was try to sleep.How do you stand it?¡±.Will laughed ¡°I kinda like it, keeps you on your toes.¡±.Naomi came out of the galley, followed by Katya who was carrying, oh happy day, a fresh pot of tea.He quickly filled a mug, sugared it and enjoyed a lovely warming sip, ¡°I better get back up top to Minnie, I¡¯ll whistle down when we¡¯re close okay?¡±.Naomi nodded ¡°No worries, it¡¯s all under control down here dad, see you soon.¡±. Up he went to the dark cold deck, even less waves now than when he went down.The Rose was easily just steaming along through the dark seas, not too much in the way of light, just the deck lantern.But he could see the horizon to the east was getting a little lighter.¡°Good deal¡±, he muttered.Minnie was easily handling the boat now and was glad to see him back.¡°If you shut off the lanterns in here it feels like you¡¯re flying, it¡¯s weird.¡±.Laughing he passed her some warm juice and a few pieces of cheese toast wrapped in a napkin and took back the wheel.


    As he took a mouthful of tea she asked ¡°Are the stinkys all okay?.¡±He tried not to but ended up spitting tea out in a laugh.¡°What?¡±, he asked intelligently.¡°The people, all the guys downstairs, the ones we picked up, you remember them right?¡±, Minnie reminded him.¡°Well yeah I remember, but why the stinkys.¡±.She tapped her nose ¡°I smell things a bunch better than you, and I could smell them coming before they even got on the boat.¡±.Oh right, he thought.¡°They¡¯re nice people but when there¡¯s a lot around it¡¯s hard for me to tell who¡¯s who, I know your smell and Naomi¡¯s, some of the littles but the others are just a lot.¡±.


    As they talked the sun was beginning to make an appearance, just a red line at first but then rising to full glory in just a few minutes.The frost and rime on the windows began to steam away, for a while they were steaming through a fog of their own making.That cleared fast and they could see calm seas ahead and even a bit of blue skies.¡°That¡¯s nice to see huh dad?¡± asked Minnie.¡°Oh yeah,¡± Will answered, ¡°A very good sign.¡±.

 Halfway Home

    Chapter 17Halfway Home


    The good weather was a welcome sign that things were going to go well today.They were nearly at the drop off and Will was interested to see what progress the first group had made.Probably not too much, but you never know.Far ahead you could see smoke rising, a signal had been lighted for them.Minnie could have navigated there with her eyes closed but the thought was nice.Will took the conn while Minnie went down for a break and visit with her friends.Being alone in the wheelhouse took him back to his first days here, when Minnie was not who she was now.Just as beloved, but different.Time sure changed things.


    The water was calm as could be now, like sailing on glass.The rough weather of the night was just a memory.He hoped everyone got through it okay, no lasting trauma.But they would never be on a boat again, with any likelihood.The lake effect eventually got to everyone, limiting their time on the Rose, even with the presence of all three crew.The children were safe though even if their parents weren¡¯t.This trip was about it, nearly a full day on the water.Adults would be feeling it soon, good thing journeys end was in sight.


    From the height of the wheelhouse he saw Cal, at least he thought it was Cal, and the two little girls Uma and Oona come on deck.He quickly opened the door and called ¡°Mind the ice, it¡¯s very slippery, use the sand bucket beside you there.¡±. The large teen got the message and spread sand out for a better grip.If they did lose their footing they wouldn¡¯t go overboard, not in these calm waters.But they could be injured on a fall.They made it to the stairs and again Will opened up and let them all in for a visit.¡°Hello little ones, how are you enjoying the trip?¡± he asked.The girls giggled a bit at the big Cal being called little one, but he took it in good humour.Perhaps he remembered how easily Will had shifted the full loaded boat.Irregardless they regaled him with tales of how the boat had moved last night, nearly rolling them out of bed.Will laughed ¡°Ah,¡± he said ¡°There¡¯s atrick to that.¡±.Big eyed they asked what it was.¡°It¡¯s a secret but I¡¯ll tell you all if you promise to never tell.¡± he whispered, looking over his shoulder and under the table.Checking for lurkers, he said.The three promised that they wouldn¡¯t tell anyone so he beckoned them close and said ¡°You have to learn to sleep standing up, like a horse or a reindeer, then you won¡¯t be rolled out.¡±.Cal was blank faced for a minute, as was his sisters, then burst out laughing, followed by giggles from the girls.


    ¡°You are all very brave to sail with us though, you know what the lake does.¡±, he said afterwards.He had found a biscuit tin that Minnie hadn¡¯t emptied and shared them out with the three children.¡°Are you married captain?¡±, Uma asked.Will gave a sigh ¡°I was married for a long time, but she passed.Now it¡¯s just me, Minnie and Naomi.¡±.¡°Are you their pa, for real?¡±, Oona asked this time.Hmm, he thought, how to put this.¡°Yes, it¡¯s a bit complicated, you¡¯ll understand when your older, and I know you must hate hearing that but it¡¯s true.¡±.Cal nodded, he got it.He and Naomi had been sharing life stories and as much as he envied where she had been and seen, the thought of actually living on the water was horrible.After they had eaten a few biscuits and looked over the calm waters they went back below.It was very quiet after they left and as much as Will enjoyed visiting, he did value the solitude.


    Time passed, Minnie had whistled up to check on him, she was napping for an hour or two, but would be back up after.He assured he he was fine, yes he missed her, yes he had eaten her hidden stash of biscuits too.There was an indignant squawk then a laugh ¡°You shared them with the littles didn¡¯t you?I knew you would, night dad.¡±, and she capped off her end.He then whistled down to the mess, them after no answer, the galley.This time Naomi answered.¡°Hey sweetie, is everything okay, need a hand?¡±, he asked.She was fine and everything was under control, she said, then promised to send him up some tea and oatmeal.He capped off after thanking her and went back to just staring out at the cold world outside.Breakfast arrived with Katya this time and after a minute or two she went back down, Will could tell the sight of all the water around the boat was disturbing her.It was coming time that more and more of the passengers would be feeling the waters.


    After finishing his meal, there were only a few miles left to go so he opened up the whistle a few times to let the new burrows know they were close.Minnie joined him soon after ¡°Another load huh, you think two more trips will do it?.¡°Yeah,¡± he replied ¡°There still a couple of hundred there, so maybe even three more.Then after they¡¯re settled it¡¯s a quick trip south for a resupply at Newton, then Laketown.¡±.Minnie shook her head ¡°it¡¯ll be nice to go back, see all our friends again.¡±.¡°Warmer too.¡±, added Will, ¡°And fresh food, we¡¯re getting a bit low.Might have to stop and do some fishing.¡±.At that Minnie¡¯s ears perked up, she loved fish of most kinds, just not sharps.¡°Can¡¯t eat those, it was too bad cause we had tons of them, they probably taste like bleargh anyway.¡± she said, rambling away.Will just nodded.


    Eventually, after talking about fish, fries vs fried potatoes, woolly hats and felt boots they got to the drop off point.Slowing the boat and anchoring about thirty yards from shore, Will and Minnie dressed warmly and left the wheelhouse to get the bigger boat ready.This time it was decided that Minnie and Naomi would stay onboard to calm the remaining passengers, Will would ferry them to shore quickly.After a few minutes the first group came up, with all their packs and bags.They were quickly helped in to the waiting dory and they were off to the beach.The boat reached shore in a couple of minutes there was a sigh of relief from everyone.


    ¡°Thank you captain, have a safe trip back, thanks for the bread.¡±, the villagers went to meet the first group that had journeyed down.It was a few minutes walk to where that camp was but they had been met by friends and family.There were many changes to the rough camp that had been set up.Herds of reindeer and elk milled around in paddocks, off to the west but still close.Huge piles of firewood and dried brush had been gathered as well.They were settling in nicely.The ground here was not as frozen over as it was two hundred miles further North.Still cold but not the bone numbing minus thirty it had been and less wind.


    Din had been one of the first to come up and greet the newcomers ¡°My family, did they come this trip captain?¡±.¡°Oh yes¡±, Will assured him, ¡°They¡¯re next to come to shore, the twins were still eating toast last I saw them, very excited to be here.¡±.He surveyed the land, noticing several piles of earth and stone.¡°You were able to dig¡±, he asked.¡°Oh yes, the ground is the same, just one burrow so far though.Out of the wind and cold.¡±, Din replied.Tor joined them, giving his brother a playful nudge¡°Ma¡¯s coming, I won¡¯t have to eat what you cook now.¡±.Din just looked at him, ¡°Starve next time then.¡±.¡°Is the burrow big enough for all, there¡¯s many more people now, and more coming.¡± Will asked.Tor shook his head ¡°No, it¡¯s just for the ten of us, but we found a good site near the cliffs to the north, lots of caves to start and go down from.We¡¯ll be all right.¡±.In fact several groups were heading in the direction that Tor had indicated, carrying everything they owned.The sleds that the families used would be brought on the last trip of all, people were the priority.Will bid the brothers goodbye and headed back to fetch the next and last group.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Rowing quickly back he could see people gathered on deck waiting.It was a few minutes but the boat was fully loaded again and back to shore they went.Dropping the passengers off safely, letting them know he would be right back he stroked back to the Rose.Minnie and Naomi had brought up two barrels of their emergency rations on deck, along with a few sacks of oatmeal.¡°Thanks guys,¡± Will said as he loaded the boat, ¡°Anyone want to come along?¡±.Naomi declined saying there was lots to do still in the mess, so did Minnie who wanted a warm bath.Laughing he jumped in and took off again.


    A quick row in and onto the beach, pulling the dory up out of the tide.Wouldn¡¯t do to lose yet another boat.Lifting out the barrels and sacks he saw the entire Obb family waiting, ¡°Hello my friends, feeling better back on land?¡±. ¡°Oh yes,¡± Therd answered, Katya as well.The twins weren¡¯t any the worse for wear and very happy to see the brothers.Tor and Din took an end of one of the barrels, and heaved it along as far as they could.Will took pity on them and hefted it to his shoulder while holding the other in a rope sling.¡°I¡¯ll take these, but could you take the oatmeal please?¡±.Dins eyes lit up in joy and he seized one of the sacks happily, the rest were distributed to the rest of the family.¡°We¡¯ll put these in the first burrow here, and you can distribute as you see fit, okay?¡±, Will said as he strode along.Again the boys were in a bit of shock at how easily he did this, to him it was just the way things were now.


    The burrow that had been dug was large enough for about twenty adults to rest comfortably in.The amount of effort it had taken was impressive, and in a short time.The first ones must have worked nearly non-stop.Supplies were dropped off into an alcove for when they were needed and it was time for Will to rejoin the Rose.Tor saw him looking around, ¡°Jeri went north with a group to search for more caves, and to find water, a good river we hope.¡±.Will nodded ¡°When you see her, tell her I still think of,¡± he sighed, ¡°Just remember me to her.¡±.¡°I will.¡±, Tor assured him.Bidding the family goodbye, he rowed back to the boat and secured the dory.


    Going below he found Minnie and Naomi cleaning the mess and crew quarters.¡°No bath?¡±, he asked.Minnie snorted ¡°Not much point of being clean then getting messy again, some of those guys were slobs.I don¡¯t think they ever saw a head before.I¡¯m gonna draw pictures of what to do, and what not to do and pin them up for the next load cause yuck.¡±.As he looked around the rooms did seem to be a bit amok, especially the bedding.The bunks had been slept in, and in some cases looked like a war had been fought in.¡°I guess the rough seas were worse than we thought, next couple of trips we¡¯ll stay closer to shore.¡± he said, The three of them got the boat back in order in a short time, ¡°We¡¯re going to keep a closer eye on the passengers next time.¡± Will laughed.


    After cleaning and a cup of tea Will checked the engine room and filled the coal bunkers and checked the boilers water.The bunkers were a little low, checking the main hold he found that the coal there was just about gone too.I didn¡¯t realize we used this much, been busy though, he thought.¡°Hey Min,¡± he waited for her to answer.Her head popped out of the mess ¡°What¡¯s up doc?¡±.He laughed ¡°Did you notice a shoal, a coal shore on the way here?¡±.Naomi¡¯s head popped out, above Minnie¡¯s ¡°I noticed a small one on the way down yesterday, not very big though.¡±.¡°Oh yeah,¡± Minnie said ¡°About three hours up coast, kinda near the earth crack, we gotta stop?¡±.Will thought for a moment ¡°We¡¯re okay on fuel, I just don¡¯t like to see empty bunkers in the hold.After we¡¯re done transporting we¡¯ll stop and gather some.¡±.He headed for his cabin for a quick wash up, clean clothes and a shave.Rubbing his head he found a quarter inch of hair, unacceptable!That was going to go first thing.


    Feeling much better it was time to get dressed warm again and start off back up the coast for another load of, hmmm passengers wasn¡¯t a good fit, villagers was okay, refugees was a bit off, he would have to ask Minnie and Naomi what they thought.One last stop though.The galley for a fill of tea into a large flask he had found in his quarters.Big enough to hold a pint of something, glass lined with a leather case engraved with a ornate ¡®E¡¯.Must have been Eric¡¯s he thought, probably the first times tea had been in it.Minnie and Naomi were waiting in the mess for him, mostly dressed.Just lacking hats and gloves.¡°Once more unto the breech dear friends, once more.¡± he greeted them.Looking at each other and shrugging, no questions asked, they just left to get dressed.He heard laughing as they left, what a pair they turned out to be.Shutting off the galley lanterns, as well as the mess hall ones.The corridor was still lit and would stay on low while they travelled, depending on how rough it got again.You don¡¯t want a broken oil lamp in a wooden ship.All of theirs were either on gimbals or hanging secured by chains, no liquid fuel but cotton soaked, a little safer.Come to think of it, their stores of lamp oil was getting low too, He sighed, still lots to do though.


    Minnie and Naomi were waiting at the stairs, ready to go, lower doors open.You could feel the chill coming down.Their gear could handle it and up top they marched. The light was just beginning to fade, it was only late afternoon but night came quickly now.Anchors up, and they turned back to the North, slowly at first but soon the water was foaming at the stern as the engine pushed them through the icy water.Bow lifting, black smoke puffing from the stack, it was time for another run of, now what were they called then?He put the question out there.¡°The burrowers maybe or just villagers.¡± Naomi said.Minnie liked ¡°The stinkies¡±, but then said she was just kidding and didn¡¯t want to be a meanie, ¡°Just call them the villagers, we know what you mean dad.¡±.So that was official now, as they pushed on he wrotein his log the days events, dropping off the second load of villagers and they were on the way for the third.He was going to try and get as many as he could fit this time.The weather was much worse the further up the coast they went, and it wasn¡¯t safe for them to stay there.¡°Give us a song guys.¡±, he asked.¡°Hmm, you pick one dad, if you whistle something I can pick up the tune pretty quickly.¡± Naomi said, readying her fiddle and Minnie her penny whistle.He thought for a moment and started humming then singing¡­


    Ah De Do Ah De Do Da Day, Ah De Do Ah De A


    He whistled and he sang till the green woods rang


    and he won the heart of a lady


    Gypsy Rover came over the hill


    down through the valley so shady


    He whistled and he sang till the green woods rang


    and he won the heart of a lady


    She left her home her castle great


    she left her fair young lover


    she left her servants and her estate


    to follow the Gypsy Rover


    It was a simple happy song and his wife had loved it so.Her father had sung it to her when she was young.When all the kids and grandkids were babies she had sung it to them as they slept in her arms.Later as they had all grown up and away, she still hummed it now and then.Minnie had picked up the tune as had Naomi, so he continued,


    Ah De Do Ah De Do Da Day, Ah De Do Ah De A


    He whistled and he sang till the green woods rang


    and he won the heart of a lady


    Her father saddled up his fastest steed


    roamed the valleys all over


    sought his daughter at great speed


    and the whistlin'' Gypsy Rover


    He came unto a mansion fine


    down by the river so shady


    and there was music and there was wine


    for the Gypsy and his lady


    "He is no gypsy my father." she said,


    "But Lord of these lands all over.


    and I will stay till my dying day


    with my whistlin'' Gypsy Rover"


    ¡°It¡¯s not a sad song guys,¡±, he saw a tear on Naomi¡¯s cheek and Minnie was wiping her eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be glum, you celebrate people by remembering everything that made them dear to you, be glad you knew them and what that knowing gave you.¡± Will gathered first Minnie then Naomi into a hug and they sat there for a minute, just remembering those they had loved.Rocked by the waves and the boat, protected and comforted by the Rose.

 One More To Go

    Chapter 18One more to go


    Again as they steamed north the weather and the water got much rougher.High waves, strong headwinds, very cold now.The salt spray was freezing on the superstructure of the boat, not much yet but it would grow.¡°Take us closer in Min, then back on our heading, see if that makes a difference.¡± Will suggested.¡°Aye aye.¡±, was the happy reply and she spun the wheel to get them closer to shore.It wasn¡¯t total darkness yet, but close.It was not safe being close to an unknown shore, but they were still well back from land.And the waves were lessened the closer they came so it was a bit of a tossup.


    The crew wasn¡¯t bothered by the high waves, in fact Minnie and Will were quite enjoying the ride.Naomi was up in the wheelhouse too, she was okay with these waves now, didn¡¯t particularly like them though.Seeing the bow nearly submerged then tossing back up in a wild blast of water was still a bit disconcerting, to say the least.The way the deck was designed with a tilt helped run the water right off again, out under the side rails and through the hawsepipers.Will was logging this and as he wrote that Minnie laughed ¡°What the heck is that word, a watchemacallit?¡±.¡°That¡¯s the name of the hole the anchor chains run through.¡± Will said.Why he knew this he had no idea, but odd facts seemed to stick in his brain.


    The weather continued to worsen the further north they travelled.As the hours wore on the miles rolled by.Keeping to the course and speed as best they could Will reckoned they had hit the halfway point.¡°Eight hours at this speed and we will be close guys, anyone want to go get some sleep, now¡¯s the time.¡±.Neither moved.Naomi looked out and said ¡°I think its a bit risky to go outside, too cold and way too slippery.¡±.Minnie agreed with her ¡°Why don¡¯t we have more stairs, or maybe a pole like you told us about, that the firemen slide down, we could do that you know.¡±.Will thought for a moment, ¡°That pole would be right in the middle of our cabin at the bottom, or close to it, no thanks.But I do wish there was another set of stairs to go down.¡±.


    They talked back and forth for a while, about changing the stairs, or maybe there should be a small wood stove in the wheelhouse for cooking, how he knew what a hawsepiper was.But Naomi finally dropped off, tucked comfortably in one of the big captains chairs, then Minnie was snoring gently in the other.Standing behind the polished wooden wheel, Will dimmed the lantern.The red filters had been put in long ago, to give better vision at night, and now it was set very low.There was enough moonlight to see the world outside.Waves still crashing over them, a steady hand on the helm kept her on course though.Hours passed as they pounded along, Will thinking of nothing and everything, checking the bearing.Listening to the wind.Finally as the sun was beginning to rise the waters began to calm as the storm had blown itself out.


    Minnie was first to wake, stretching and yawning, ¡°Wow, I slept like a rock, why didn¡¯t you wake me, you could have had a snoozey too.¡±.Will shook his head, ¡°I¡¯m good Min, just thinking of stuff, writing it all down.You know me.¡±.Naomi had also woken ¡°Oh we know dad, pen in one hand, tea in the other, steering with your feet.¡±.He laughed, how well they knew him.¡°Now that the waters not so rough I¡¯m gonna go down and make a cuppa and a quick bite for us.¡±, said Naomi, struggling into her cold gear again.She had to push the door a few times, to break off the ice that had formed overnight.The air that rushed in was cold, but very refreshing, crisp and clean and salty and wonderful.Naomi very carefully made her way to the stair shed, hauled that open and was gone below.


    Minnie was blowing the steam whistle, to let the villagers know they were close.At least they thought they were close.Will steered them closer to the shore, to see if they could pick up landmarks that might be familiar .So far nothing, but they were still looking.¡°Maybe we should have put up a signpost, saying ¡®This way to the village¡¯, Will suggested. Minnie shrugged ¡° After these trips we¡¯ll never come back this far north right.¡±.Oh yeah, he thought, she¡¯s right.¡°Good point.¡±.Continuing on both Will and Minnie were scanning for the cairn, hopefully lighted up.Naomi returned, looking very refreshed and, best of all, toting a covered tray.Carefully placing in on the map table the cover came off to reveal breakfast.Fried ham together with potatoes and carrots, cheese toast and tea.¡°Wow, that looks great, I¡¯m starving.¡±, Will said, pouring a much needed tea.¡°Yeah me too, thanks.¡±, Minnie had helped herself to everything and was snarfing it down like a fiend.


    As they enjoyed the much appreciated meal the scanning of the shore continued, until Naomi spotted the lighted cairn.Still some distance ahead but apparently the whistle had been heard.A good sign, Will had been concerned for the remaining villagers.He didn¡¯t know how much food was left, or even how many people remained.This was a touch and go situation.It was full speed ahead for the village.


    Another thirty minutes found the Rose dropping anchors.About thirty yardsfrom shore in mostly calm waters.Still windy and cold, no snow falling but it had come down hard.Huge drifts abounded against the blazing cairn and you could see where the snow had been tramped down for a path.They had laid on the whistle to let the villagers know it was time and the crew was prepping for the pick up.Minnie and Will prepped the boats and lowered them to the icy water.Naomi was again staying behind, she wanted to get some baking done in this down time.Already the smell of fresh bread was rising up through the boat.¡°Nice way to greet the passengers huh dad?I love that, fresh bread, with butter and jam, and cheese.¡±, Minnie rambled on.¡°Oh yeah, I love it too, but I miss peanut butter you know.¡± Will answered.They were losing life belts into the boats, just for safety but if anyone fell into this water, it would be very bad.¡°What¡¯s peanut butter, we don¡¯t have that do we?¡±, Minnie asked.He shook his head, ¡°I don¡¯t think peanuts grow here, and you can¡¯t make it out of tree nuts, maybe almonds but I haven¡¯t seen them either.¡±.Jumping in the boats, they cast off and rowed to shore.


    A line of people were trudging through the snowy path toward the shore, all ages.Babes in arms all the way up to some older folks, not many though.There were some young people, teens and up, a mixture of all ages really. Minnie and Will cruised to shore, close to where everyone was gathered and beached the boats.As was her way, Minnie went to visit with babies and little people, Will started people loading.¡°We¡¯re going to take as many as possible, then load your sleds on deck, there¡¯s a need for them in the new village ¡°, he called.The leader, Arno and familyseemed to be in charge this time, sent a few teens to run and get the sleds, ¡°How many captain?¡±. Will hmmmed, ¡°We can lash at least twenty to the deck.¡±.Nodding Arno directed more people to fetch them.Minnie was carefully loading young ones into the dory, then the smaller boat.As they floated a bit people were definitely getting agitated, only the crews presence stopped a full blown panic. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Seeing the boats were full, Min and Will gently guided them all the way in, jumping and started rowing.Calling ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡±, which always made him laugh, the loaded boats started for the Rose.It was just minutes on the calm water, a view these people had never seen, their land falling away.Naomi was ready on deck and caught the lines, pulled them close and started people climbing on deck.Minnie was going to stay, to help ameliorate the waters effect.Their calming presence was obviously helping as most villagers seemed to be nearly enjoying this experience .But the older one was, the trip was more difficult.Several of the much older people were still shivering and clutching at each other for comfort.Naomi directed these people below, with their families.The warm cosy mess halls and crew cabins would help even more.Good food and tea awaited.


    As his boat was empty and Minnie and Naomi had things in hand, Will headed back to shore, for the next.As he left Naomi called, ¡°We can handle about twenty more.¡±.Give a wave to let her know he heard, Will bent to the oars.It was amazing, he thought, that the weather was holding good for this load.The last few days had been rough, by anyone¡¯s standards.There were more than twenty people waiting, he didn¡¯t know if they were going to be disappointed or relieved that not all could go.Priority would be given to children though.Again he beached the boat, crunching into the ice and snow.Large sleds were waiting as well, all polished wood and bone.Hefting one he found the weight was negligible.¡°Okay folks, we have room for twenty more, young children and parents please.¡± he asked.


    The people quickly came forward and settled in the boat, Will could see about fifty adults remained, also the Eld, standing near.This trip to the Rose was easy, and Will carefully off loaded his passengers to Minnie and Naomi¡¯s care.Taking Arno and two of his sons with him, they went back to load the sleds.Stacking four aft and four in the front, carefully tied, the slightly top heavy boat again dashed toward the Rose.It was a quick trip.Arno and his boys climbed on deck and lifted the heavy sleds from Will.Then back in for the next load.Another eight were loaded and secured.¡°We will return in two days at the latest for the last load, make sure you pack everything you want.Listen for the whistle.After you leave there¡¯s no easy way to return.¡±.With a wave he boarded and headed for the Rose.A beautiful sight.The cold icy air was almost painfully clear and every detail of his floating home shone.Warm lights in the portholes, wood smoke drifting up from the galley chimney, Minnie waving to him as he got closer.She tied the boat off and started catching the sleds as he tossed them up.Arno just shook his head, ¡°Made of iron they are.¡± he muttered to his sons.The sleds were tied in place securely, Will lifted the anchors and Minnie started the Rose heading back on course to the burrows.


    ¡°Heading below for a minute, need anything?¡±, he asked.¡°Sandwiches, biscuits, a slice of cake with that yummy vanilla icing, a nice mug of apple juice.¡±, was Minnie¡¯s answer.¡°I¡¯ll see if I can do that, might be all eaten already.¡± Will called back as he left, hearing a gasp of horror behind him.He checked the sleds, but the ropes were holding tight.Hoping the calm weather would stay he went below.Was it ever full down here!Children everywhere, not badly behaved, just acting like kids.Catching sight of him there was a communal shriek and they scattered.Oh right, he thought, still have all my winter gear on.Pulling off his hat, goggles, gloves, boots and coveralls, showing that he was, after all, human.The crew cabins were very crowded as was the mess, definitely a lack of sitting room.Passing through the crowds he headed into the galley.Naomi was quite busy, but she had gotten help from two of the passengers.Two older men who were presently slicing bread, toasting and buttering.¡°Dad! Hey, I have everything under control.Lars and Yan offered to help and they¡¯re great.¡± she said when she noticed him lurking.Shaking hands with the two lads, which was not a thing that was done here, but they took to with great enthusiasm.


    ¡°You have so much captain, and share with us, it¡¯s wonderful¡±, said Lars, pulling a tray out and loading it with plates of the toast, slices of cheese and even some smoked sausage.When he carried it in, there rose a cheer, Yan carried a second, equally loaded tray in right after him.Will started putting together something for Minnie, and a bit for himself too.Naomi pulled a half of a cake out of a cupboard, hidden for safety.¡°I¡¯m sure Minnie would like some.¡±, she laughed, cutting two large slices.¡°Oh yeah, apparently she¡¯s dying for some.¡± he answered, putting sandwiches together, and filling a small bag with biscuits.¡°This will give her the strength to fight the wolves off.¡± he laughed.


    ¡°We¡¯re off by the way, I hope it¡¯s a better trip this time.¡±, he called to Naomi.¡°Less waves anyway.¡±, she answered.


    Tossing his lunch sack over his shoulder Will headed to the engine room.Filling the auto loaders with coal, and when he checked the main bunkers he found they were low.¡°Gotta get a fill after this trip.¡± he said aloud.They were okay on fuel, it would last for doing these passenger runs.Then stop at the shoal Naomi had seen and fill.Will just hoped it was good anthracite, they could burn any but that was better.Redressing to face the cold took but a few minutes now and he was ready again.The cool fresh air that met him was refreshing after the crowded decks below.The water was still calm, just the occasional heave, lifting the Rose, almost playfully.Minnie noticed him coming up to the stairs and opened up the door for him.


    ¡°Brrr dad, wanna hurry up yeah?¡±, she said.Spying the lunch bag over his shoulder she cleared the map table and looked at him expectantly.¡°Yum, I¡¯m starving you know.¡±, she paused and sniffed, ¡°Smoked sausage and cheese!You had some and now I get the scraps, a crust of bread and a glass of water, oh woe is me!¡±.She threw herself into her chair and covered her face with her hands, sobbing.Will waited, sighing, he should never have told her those stories.Minnie dropped her hands ¡°Not buying it huh?Oh well, I tried.¡±.Jumped back up and started examining the lunch bag.Happy exclamations at each find, the cheese, the sausage, fresh buttered toast, warm juice and cake.¡°Good job dad, all my favourites.¡±, she told him earnestly.Will laughed ¡°Funny how I knew that huh.¡±.


    The boat was on course, making good time and they expected to make their destination in about eighteen hours.For once the weather was cooperating and Will was glad of this.The villagers sleds were tied on deck, but a few harsh waves might damage or even wash them overboard.Now that would be a catastrophe for everyone.The air was still very cold, the wind had picked up, but no snow and no waves.¡°Let¡¯s hope the weather holds like this, got a big load this time,¡± Will said, ¡°But you know what?Full speed ahead, Min, let ¡®er rip.¡±.

 Sailing, Sailing, Over the Frozen Sea

    Chapter 19. Sailing, Sailing, Over the Freezing Sea


    Of all the trips they had done, up and down this icy coast, this was the easiest, so far anyway .The calm waters made it easy to log the events of the past couple of days.Before today, it had just been too busy, but he didn¡¯t want to forget anything, so he was at it now.¡°Like you said dad, if you don¡¯t write it down it didn¡¯t happen.¡±, Minnie was, as usual, looking over his shoulder as he wrote.She was piloting the boat, but all by the compass.Once they were on the proper heading it was just steam along for the next fifteen hours.There were never any other boats to worry about.No need to look outside, pointless anyway.It was black as pitch outside the lighted wheelhouse.Even the midship lantern wasn¡¯t lit tonight, to save lantern oil, they were getting low.It was like a little floating box of light, he and Minnie were drifting along.


    Will was glad of one thing, well he was glad for many things but this one in particular.He had managed to remember to bring up one of the small wood stoves, the type they used on ore runs.When they prepared food on shore.He had engineered a chimney, venting it out through a roof vent.And now he could make tea in the wheelhouse.None of them would have to risk the cold icy deck anymore.If he had to admit it, the tea prepared in the galley tasted better than the brew he had up here.It was odd but there it was.All this was being patiently written down in his careful printing.Every detail of the loading, the two lads helping Naomi, ¡°Hey don¡¯t forget the baby on the stairs, that was weird, right.¡±, Minnie reminded.


    And it had been weird.She had gone below to use the head in their cabin, but when she opened the top stairs doors, a very young baby had been busily climbing the stairs.Closing the doors very quickly as not to let too much cold air down , she had picked up the tiny person and marched downstairs.Ready to give the person looking after the child a talking to.It had been a few hours after setting off and it was very dark below, just a single dimmed lantern in the corridor.Minnie could hear many snores, coughs and other sleep noises, and then one frantic mother searching for her infant.Trying to be quiet about it but whisper/calling for the child.¡°Sabrina, where are you, Sabrina, Sabrina!¡±.Minnie called out softly that she had her and she was safe.A startled young woman came out of the port crew quarters, tears running, scared out of her wits.


    ¡°Oh thank you, thank you, I¡¯m so sorry, I was so tired and warm, it¡¯s been so long since we had enough to eat.¡±, she kept on and Minnie didn¡¯t have the heart to scold her.Simply passed the child back.¡°She¡¯s okay, just going on an adventure.¡±, she went on ¡°I think she wanted to go fishing on deck, but it¡¯s a little chilly tonight for that.¡±.That made the young mother laugh.¡°She¡¯s like her father was, a wandering soul.At home I can keep her in, it¡¯s just us two, but so many people were going in and out.¡±, she just ran out of words.¡°I¡¯m Minnie by the way, who are you.¡±, Min asked.The young woman did that nodding motion ¡°I¡¯m Lizzie, this is Sabrina, so nice to meet you again, you rowed us here.Then Naomi was so nice.I helped out in the kitchen while the other kids watched Sab, then we ate¡­I¡¯m talking too much aren¡¯t I?My man always said I did, but he didn¡¯t talk much at all, then he fell in the river ice and it¡¯s just us now.¡±, she wound down.Wow, thought Minnie, I thought I was yappy.


    The young mother took her now sleepy baby back into crew quarters, ¡°Goodnight Minnie, thanks for rescuing Sab, she¡¯ll sleep now, getting rocked by the boat is nice for her, me too, oh and the other babies love it, they sleep well, I just was so tired¡­¡±, the door shut quietly and Minnie could still hear Lizzie burbling away.Laughing she went to her and dads cabin, used the head and redressed in her outer gear.Opening the bottom doors, checking for stray babies but finding the coast was clear she went up, very carefully closing the door behind.


    ¡°Yeah, I remembered to write about the baby¡±, Will said, ¡°I¡¯m glad you found her before she fell or got too cold.¡±.Minnie shrugged ¡°I¡¯m lucky like that and she¡¯s a tough little one, mom too, she¡¯s all alone.¡±.Will sighed ¡°I wish we could help them all, but we can only do so much.¡±.He took a sip of tea, sitting heavily in his chair, ¡°We¡¯ll do what we can, and try our best.I hope these people make it.¡±.At that moment the mess voice tube whistled, Minnie uncapped and answered ¡°Hi Naomi, yeah ok, dad will come down, he¡¯s getting ready now, yup.¡±.Will was dressingand raised a brow at Min, ¡°Something going on?¡±.Minnie nodded, ¡°She wants you to come down to look at someone, says they might be sick.¡±.


    Minnie assured him that she was okay at the wheel still, he set off outside, then down below.Much warmer below so he removed his boots and coveralls, he could already hear raised voices.Walking quickly to the mess and entering with a ¡°Evening all, so what¡¯s happening?¡±.There were at leastthirty persons, all arguing at once.From what he gathered in the first few seconds was that some of the kids were sick with something and it was spreading.¡°Quiet please.¡±, he asked only to be ignored, then a full volume roar, that shook the room ¡°I said QUIET please.¡±.That got the attention of all.¡°Now then, Naomi what¡¯s going on?¡± Will asked.Again several voices answered, only to be drowned out by Naomi this time.¡°The captain asked that you all kindly be quiet, now.¡± waiting for quiet, then addressed Will, ¡°It¡¯s the little pox dad, nothing to worry about,but they¡¯ve never seen it.¡±.Little pox, he wondered, then catching sight of one of the smaller children he understood, chicken pox.¡°Ah, I see, very common where I come from, you too?¡±, he asked her.Nodding she replied ¡°Oh yes, we all get it as kids, just itchy for a bit, we swab it with lake water and it¡¯s gone in a couple of days.¡±.The villagers had been listening, Arno spoke up then ¡°We¡¯ve never had this, is it something you brought us?¡±. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    ¡°Well, not intentionally.I had it as a little boy, about seventy years ago.¡±, seeing the looks of confusion he laughed, ¡°I¡¯m older than I look, may I have a look at the problem?¡±.The young mother Minnie met came over with her daughter in her arms.She uncovered the little girls arm, and Will could immediately see the marks from what Naomi called the little pox.It was a relief that it wasn¡¯t something worse.Still could be serious in adults but there wasn¡¯t much they could do,No seclusion in these close quarters, it would just have to run its course.The disease might be slightly different than in his home world, lake water, even the salt water that was here, was not usually a treatment.Or perhaps there was an unknown quality, an effect that was actually beneficial for once.¡°If it¡¯s something you picked up from me, or Naomi, I¡¯m sorry, but there¡¯s not much we can do about it now.Luckily we have a good supply of lake water nearby.¡±.


    After this, everyone was checking for the marks of the pox, but only the children showed, so far.Will took a moment, threw a coat on quickly and went on deck and pulled up a couple of buckets of icy water.When this was applied to the pox marks the relief was instant.Will shook his head, so much better than calamine lotion.Hmm, he thought, what is that even made of?¡°Naomi, is the lake water the only treatment for this?¡±.She thought for a bit, ¡°If it gets very big, or really itchy, sometimes float weed is mashed up into a poultice.We have some dried in the pantry, sometimes I add it to recipes.¡±.She left the mess for a few minutes, leaving Will with all the worried passengers, then returned with a handful.She started mixing it with the fresh lake water and the worse of the children were daubed with the goo.It smelled surprisingly nice.


    Arno came up to Will, a bit apologetic, ¡°Sorry for the fuss captain, we have never seen this, it was worrying.¡±.Will clapped him on the shoulder, ¡°Being concerned for children, and your people, is what you do.Nothing to apologize for.¡±.Will beckoned Naomi to leave the room for a moment, with him.¡°Were you okay?I can stick around for a while if things were getting unsettled.¡±.Naomi laughed ¡°If I can handle sharps then I can handle a few of these guys.Maybe we should have another arm wrestling contest.¡±.Laughing he patted her arm, ¡°My tough girls, good for you.¡±.They went back in and Lizzie immediately came over to talk to Naomi, and absently handed her baby to Will.Then, realizing what she had done, was a bit mortified and apologized.¡°I like the babies, no worries, we¡¯ll visit for a bit, then I have to get back up top.¡±, he said.


    Everyone was much more relaxed now, finding out that, there was a treatment and it wasn¡¯t going to do any lasting harm.Naomi was talking with Lizzie, Will was talking to little Sab and listening in a bit.Overhearing what Naomi was telling about what she called ¡®little pox¡¯ made him think it was different from his worlds chicken pox.This version was much less virulent than the one he was familiar with, making him wonder if it was even the same at all.Yet another thing he had to let go, nothing he could do about it.Then a thought hit him, if it was a different strain, or a whole new disease, could he catch it¡­could Minnie?Interesting, time would tell.Returning the now snoozing baby to her mum, Will bid everyone goodnight and returned to the wheelhouse.


    ¡°Still chilly out huh.¡±, Minnie remarked seeing him shiver as he came into the warm bridge.¡°Yeah, but not as bad as it was last couple of nights, nearly done with this business.¡±, he answered.She suddenly sniffed, then again, ¡°Why do you smell like baby, hmm?Another escaped?¡±. Will was pouring a tea from the pot left warming on the small wood stove, he gave a snort.¡°Same one, not escaping but there was a bit of a freak out about a disease, something like chicken pox from our old world, maybe.¡±.Seeing Minnie¡¯s blank stare he sighed and dived into explaining what diseases were, and why it was called chicken pox, he had no idea really.But several entertaining ideas came across, that it made you grow feathers, or your feet changed, all you could say was ¡®bock bock¡¯.Keeping busy with this for a couple of hours made the time pass quickly, and before they both knew it the sun was beginning to show.


    ¡°Nice quiet night dad, I hope the next couple are the same¡±, she quickly knocked on wood, pretty easy to do on a mostly wooden boat.Nodding agreement, or nodding in his sleep Minnie couldn¡¯t tell but decided to let him snooze for a while.Nope, she pulled on the foghorn and then pretended to sleep in her chair while he sputtered awake.¡°What the?¡±, he saw an innocent little person sleeping happily, ¡°Oh no, I was dreaming of milk, yummy foamy warm milk, fresh as it gets, and ribs barbecued on our grill, and a nice hot poutine.¡±, he was interrupted by laughter.¡°Ahh your a big meanie, I miss that stuff so much dad.¡±.He gathered her up for a hug, ¡°Pretty soon.¡±.They quickly dressed in their outside gear and went out on deck, to the bow to watch the dawn together.


    The cold made them come back in for tea and warmed juice, but they had managed to last til the sun was above the horizon.It was amazing to that these calm waters they were steaming through had been wild and rough a couple of days before.The night clouds fled and the day was bright and clear.They were on course and speed and would be at the burrows in a few hours.Already they could smell fresh bread, Naomi must have started baking early.The passengers loved it so, and if it kept them calm by eating bread and butter, or toast, then let them have it.¡°What else is cooking Min, I can only smell bread?¡±, Will asked.Minnie made a show of sniffing the air, ¡°Bread, now it¡¯s toast, melted cheese, oatmeal with raisins, tea, and some apple juice.The littles usually like oatmeal cause it¡¯s gooey.¡±.As much as he liked porridge it was starting to be too much of a good thing.He sure missed his eggs, but as he told Minnie, soon.


    They had adjusted course a bit and were closer to land now, taking advantage of the daylight to locate that coal shoal.Now if Will and Minnie calculations were correct, they were near the sharp attack spot.The curious thing was that the shore was clear when before it had been littered with carcasses of all sizes.Nothing now.¡°Did something eat them you think?¡± asked Minnie with horror. ¡°I don¡¯t know, only thing that might be able to would be one of those sea serpents we saw a while back.¡±, Will answered ¡°But they¡¯re cold blooded too, couldn¡¯t live in these near ice waters, they probably washed out to sea and sank.¡±.Shrugging, they just kept on steaming south.

 Last One

    Chapter 20. Last One


    About four hours after dawn the Rose reached the burrows. A cairn had been built on the beach, just off of the rocks and wood smoke drifted up, marking the spot for them Minnie laid on the steam whistle to let everyone know they had arrived. The passengers couldn¡¯t wait to get off, even as much as they appreciated the help. The first two loads were dropped off with many calls of ¡®Thank you, see you soon, I miss toast already¡¯. Will and Minnie quickly rowed back for the second, waiting not so patiently on deck. The last to step off the Rose was Lizzie, carrying baby Sab, ¡°Goodbye Naomi, well like you say ¡®see you later¡¯, I like that, it¡¯s sounds better than goodbye, making sure we¡¯ll meet again, cause we will, right captain¡±. As she talked, they were loaded up, rowed to shore and dropped off to waiting family and friends. Surprisingly Sab reached out to Will, then Minnie to say goodbye as well. Thankfully she wasn¡¯t quite at the talking stage, but her mother more then made up for it. Next to come to shore were the sleds.


    The crew didn¡¯t need the cranes to off load the sleds.¡°Is it sleds or sleighs, cause they used both when I talked to them about it?¡±, Naomi asked, lowering one to Will.¡°Funny, I was thinking the same.¡±, Minnie laughed as she hefted the sled/sleigh and carefully placed it across the dory¡¯s gunwales.¡°Surprisingly I do know the difference.¡±, Will said, ¡°A sleigh is usually pulled by a horse, maybe a reindeer or two or eight, and carry¡¯s people or cargo.¡±.Oh no, before he knew it he was whistling, that tune.In just a few minutes he had started singing the song, and Naomi and Minnie immediately loved it.¡°At least it¡¯s the right time of year for Christmas songs.¡±, he said, knowing what was coming. Minnie put up her hand before Naomi could ask, ¡°Hold on, so what¡¯s a sled then?¡±.¡°A sled is much simpler, pushed by one person or dogs, still carry¡¯s stuff.¡± He answered, ¡°Kids use them for playing outside too, down hills and so on.¡±.Naomi gasped ¡°Pulled by dogs, that¡¯s pretty cruel isn¡¯t it.¡±.Will sighed ¡°It can be, if done by uncaring or inhumane people.But you could think of it like riding horses, people love their horses and take care of them.Most mushers do too, their dogs are like working family members, treated well.¡±.


    The others still didn¡¯t like the idea much. But it was just a story to them, another of dads ramblings. It wasn¡¯t really real. ¡°Okay,¡± said Naomi, as they continued to load sleds on the dory, ¡°What¡¯s a Christmas song, you mentioned that a long time ago, said you would explain later.¡±. He remembered now, asking about holidays. ¡°That¡¯s a holiday that comes in mid-winter that celebrates, hmmm, it¡¯s a bit hard to explain. There¡¯s a religious part to it about a special baby born. And another part about a jolly old guy who travels the world giving presents to children.¡±. Minnie was excited about presents, as he explained more about Santa, ¡° So I just write a letter to some old guy, and he breaks into the boat and gives me stuff, right?¡±. Naomi added ¡°Sounds creepy, it¡¯s bad enough we got one old guy on the boat, we don¡¯t need another.¡±. Will had been tying the sleds down and when he heard that he nearly fell in the lake. ¡°It¡¯s not really like that, it¡¯s more of a story you tell your children to entertain them.¡± he said. The dory was loaded so they rowed to shore.


    Several groups were waiting for their sleds and there was a bit of rummage while they were sorted out.This time Will left the unloading to the waiting families, they could figure the sleds out.He and Min steadied the dory while the sleds were argued over, examined for damage and greeted like old friends.Arno and Therd had retrieved their sleds, two each.¡°These have been in our families for generations, my great grand papa build this one, and my grand papa this one.¡±, Arno pointed proudly.Therd had finished checking his sleds out, ¡°Yes but this one.¡± he pointed at his, ¡°Has metal runners from captain Eric, my grandpapa traded all his furs.¡±.Both men laughed, ¡°Our families have been arguing about this forever.¡±.Boat empty it was time to go back and get the rest.Will looked around for Naomi and found her visiting with the three Obb lads, she looked tiny surrounded by Tor, Din and Cal, especially Cal.¡°Oi¡±, he called, ¡°Going back for another load, coming with?¡±.He could see her nod, so he and Minnie waited til she got back to them.


    ¡°They¡¯re exhausting, each has caught the biggest trout, or killed the biggest wolf.Show offs, all three.¡± she told them.Minnie poked her on the arm ¡°They want to be your Prince Charming, your sweetie pie lambkins honey suckle.¡±.Naomi gave a loud laugh, ¡°Those three louts? Not likely, I¡¯m just friends with the family.¡±.They climbed aboard and rowed back, Minnie still funning with Naomi.Will popped down belowdeck and retrieved a few items from their trade goods and out them in a couple of duffles.When he got back up, the rest of the sleds were carefully tied on.Quickly rowed back and dropped off to the eager hands on shore.While they were here they decided to see how much progress had been made.The weather was still cooperating, it was cold but not awful.A fair bit of snow had fallen here, drifts over six feet were against trees and the huge rocks the last ice age had left.A rough fence had been put up around the village, which now consisted of three of the rock ringed burrows.There were rock chimneys poking up here and there.As the crew walked up to the gate, still talking about Santa Claus, Uma appeared from one of the holes, quickly followed by her sister.¡°Who is Santa¡±, Oona asked. Minnie was only too happy to tell them everything she knew, and what she thought he would do.Uma asked ¡°Will he bring us presents too, if we ask nicely?¡±, Minnie shrugged, ¡°Maybe, if you¡¯re good.¡±.Uma led them down, down into a large room, much larger than the first time they had visited.Katya and, of course Lizzie and Sabrina were there, sitting near a stove and fireplace carved out of the rock.Like the other burrows the temperature was quite warm and the smoke went up the chimney with barely any trace inside.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    A few other people were sleeping on pallets of fur and branches, close to other warming stoves built in or out of the walls.Katya saw their curious looks and pointed out where tapestries or other hangings would separate living areas, eventually.¡°When we get every family their own we will spread out more, but for now we share.We are all kind of related anyway, now more than in the past.¡±, she told them. Minnie had sat near the stove, by the twins and was telling them more stories of her life and adventures.Uma was enamoured with the whales they had seen many months ago.She paced out how long she thought they were, ¡°More¡±, Minnie called, further and further she walked away, reaching the far wall.¡°How about here?¡±, she was about 15 feet away.¡°Now do that seven times, that¡¯s how big they are.¡± Minnie told them.The little girl was speechless at first, then a dozen questions.Naomi had sat by the warmth, playing with the sleepy baby and listening as Lizzie talked of this and that and everything.


    After spending a little while visiting the trio tightened their buttons and donned hats and gloves again. ¡°We¡¯ll see you soon, one or two more trips for us.¡±, Will said. Leaving the warmth of the burrow was a bit of a shock, but they quickly got used to it. Will caught sight of Arno and Therd, surrounded by their sons and Arno¡¯s daughters, three of them. All tall and strapping. ¡°Hey, follow us to the boat, got a gift for you all.¡±, Will called out. They made it first and Will retrieved the bags he had brought from the Rose. Minnie opened the bag and snorted at the contents, ¡°You give the best gifts dad.¡±. ¡°Trust me, they¡¯ll love it.¡±, replied Will. The two families finally made it. Will passed the bags out, not realizing their weight the bags hit the snow and nearly sunk out of sight. ¡°Oops,¡±he said, Minnie lifted one out and Naomi the other. Arno whispered ¡°Maids of iron.¡±. Opening the bags they found axes, hammers, chisels, knives, spear heads. Just about every iron tool you could imagine. Will had remembered the knives, wore down to a shadow. ¡°Oh captain, this is, we have no words but thank you.¡± said Arno. ¡°This will make digging so much easier, skinning, well everything will be easier now.¡± added Therd. The younger ones were gasping with awe at the brand new tools, they had never seen the like. Promising to share these out by need, Therd and Arno took charge of this gift. It looked as though a new Eld was in the making.


    Bidding the families goodbye it was time to ready for the next trip.


    They returned to the Rose, there was a few things that needed doing. First off was a good cleaning of crew quarters and the mess. Then emptying and rinsing their waste tanks, filling up the fresh water, just like our old RV Will thought. Only thing I don¡¯t have to is level it, and clean that darn roof, what a hot job that had been. After the chores were done it was time for the crew to have a wash too. This took a hour or so, but they sure felt better. ¡°I can hardly wait to go swimming again dad, it¡¯s been forever you know.¡±, Minnie griped while carefully drying her ears and tail. ¡°Yeah, it sure feels like that. I¡¯ve been cold forever it seems.¡±, Will said. Naomi bobbed her head but couldn¡¯t talk, she had a mouthful of hair pins and was carefully braiding her wet hair. They were all sitting in the mess, enjoying a quick meal before heading back north for more passengers. Since Will had no hair he had been elected to make dinner and tea. So fried ham and potatoes it was, toasted bread and jam.


    He was, of course, doodling and jotting things down in his notebook as well as cooking. Mostly about Christmas, all the songs he could remember, where to put up a Christmas tree, things like that. Whether it was a good idea to bring this holiday in, eventually others would see or hear about it and maybe copy it. But without all the history, all the stories and the religious base of the whole holiday, it wouldn¡¯t mean much. Then again it was such fun. He could imagine Minnie and Naomi opening gifts, sitting around a decorated tree. Then sitting down to a nice dinner, spending two days doing nothing but relaxing. Playing games, reading, just enjoying each others company. That part sounded great to be honest. But before that, this task they had set themselves needed to be complete.


    Naomi decided to sleep for a while, just a couple of hours she said. Will wasn¡¯t going to, Minnie usually slept in the wheelhouse, curled up in a nest of blankets and pillows she had brought up. It looked very comfortable but sadly too small for Will, he had tried to lay down and get comfy but he was much too heavy and bones poked into odd corners. He had given up on that and just leaned back in his captains chair if he needed to rest his eyes at all. There was room to bring a cot in, and that might happen still.


    After all this dithering the boat was ready, engine room coal bunkers topped up, boiler water level maxed.Everything that needed oiling was nice and oily, anchors up and half ahead.


    Will stood on the bow, dressed warmly again.Goggles on and scarf over his mouth and neck.The wind on land was broken by trees and other natural windbreaks, not so much on the water.When the wind came screaming down from the north the only thing to stop it was the Rose.So it was pretty brisk on the bow, but it wasa wonderful viewpoint.They were still fairly close to the shore, searching for that coal.The rugged land was beautiful under the afternoon sun.Weather was holding clear, if cold and the water was still mostly smooth, just the long heave that lifted them.But nothing like the roller coaster from a couple of days ago.The sky had sunny blue breaks but to the north the clouds were were white then grey with a bit of threatening black in them.¡°It¡¯s gonna get busy again dad,¡±,Minnie called to him through the open door, ¡°Better get back in here before you freeze.¡±.She was right, in the fifteen or twenty minutes he had been on deck the temperature had dropped quite a bit, mostly windchill but it was time to go in.


    The little wood stove kept the wheelhouse much warmer then just the radiators did, and it made tea so it was there to stay. The kettle was on now, starting to sing, and a warming cuppa was just minutes away. On the map table the little metal Rose was steaming her course to the north. A quite familiar run now. He hoped this would be last trip, if the Eld didn¡¯t want to come, then they could stay. Not his problem. He was looking forward to Newton and Laketown. Next trip was south, make contact with¡­now what was that place called again? FarHarbour, that¡¯s the name of the place that Magnus had brought fruit from, years before. That¡¯s where we¡¯re going then, a nice long slow trip to the south. As he wrote and planned his eyes drooped and finally shut. Minnie saw and gently took his pen from his fingers, closed his book and put both on the table beside him. The tea could wait until dad woke up she decided. Covering his legs and arms with a warm throw, she got back to the business of steering. Keeping an eye on him, just to make sure he was safe, she increased to three quarters speed. Singing Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer they made their way north.

 Visiting the Ice

    Chapter 21. Visiting the Ice


    As he slept the dreams came, from his life before.He knew he was dreaming, which was odd, like an observer watching from afar.Driving the long motor home years ago on a trip to Niagara Falls.All the things they had seen, clouds of grasshoppers in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse mountain.That had been a wonderful trip, just the two of them for nearly a month, well three including their little dog.Campsites and resorts, always with a swimming pool or close to a lake to have a cooling dip after travelling.A truly good time.Then fast forwarding to more trips, Oregon, Washington.After a few years the driving was over, for several reasons and they had started resort living, a beautiful beach, boating and fishing, visiting with family and friends.


    But all things end and so did their camping life and as Will was watching things faded out until with a lurch he woke.Not knowing where he was for a minute.Thinking he was back in their little condo, fallen asleep watching tv, again.He reached for Minnie who always slept on his lap, but found nothing. ¡°Min min, come to daddy, where are you sweetie?¡±, he called , beginning to blink awake.¡°Right here dad, geez you sleep like a log sometimes.¡± the familiar voice brought him around.There he was in the wheelhouse, Minnie at the wheel, sitting cross legged on her padded stool.Seeing her happy face always made his heart glad, ¡°Thanks for the snooze, I just dropped off.¡±.She laughed ¡°You sure did, we¡¯ve had some busy days, you needed to recharge huh.¡±.


    Checking the kettle had water, he stoked the embers to start it boiling.Everything was under control, any problems and Minnie would have woken him.¡°Hey is Naomi still sleeping too?¡±, he asked.¡°Nah, she whistled up a while ago.Baking more bread while the waters still calm, doing other stuff.We yapped for a while too, it¡¯s fun talking through the tube things.¡±, Minnie answered.As they chatted the sun dropped and it was full dark out now.They would be travelling for the next ten hours at least before they arrived at the pick up spot.Will truly hoped this was the last trip.He was determined to get everyone aboard.They had lucked out with the weather so far but that wouldn¡¯t last much longer, sooner or later winter would hit hard and stay.Getting frozen in was a real danger.


    Now that Will was awake Minnie went below for a break and to ¡®say hi to Naomi¡¯, but she had an impish look when she said it.¡°What¡¯s going on then?¡± Will asked.No answer, just a laugh.She carried a lantern with her, for safety, the deck was very dark and Will watched her bob along.Oh no, that tune!Quickly he started humming one of his favourites, anything to block it.No bobbing along today.Minnie hooked her lantern to the stairs and went down with a wave.About an hour later the voice tube whistled off.Picking up, it was Naomi letting him know they were bringing up dinner and to make sure he was awake.¡°Har har, I nod off one time and everyone¡¯s a comedian.¡±.¡°What¡¯s a comedian? Never mind, tell me in a minute¡±, she said.Capping off he sighed ¡°I gotta learn to watch what I say.¡±.


    A few minutes passed, then Minnie and Naomi came up with several dishes, plates and silverware.Shivering a bit from the cold outside but warmed quickly inside the toasty wheelhouse.As Naomi unpacked their dinner she asked ¡°So, what¡¯s a comedian then?¡±.Will did his best to explain but the concept of paying someone to make you laugh, she just didn¡¯t see the point.¡°You mean some guy tells you knock knock jokes for a couple of hours, doesn¡¯t seem much fun dad.¡±, Minnie remarked as she filled her bowl with a large helping of stew.¡°I guess it just doesn¡¯t work here, maybe in a few years.¡±, Will said.The idea of leisure time, entertainment hadn¡¯t really come to this world yet.At least where they had been so far.


    After they had all eaten, Will gathered up the dishes and took them back to the galley.He needed to get moving for a bit, to stretch his legs.Washing up the bowls and utensils gave his hands something to do while his mind was free to imagine this or that. Changing clothes was next and as he headed to his cabin he saw that the mess and crew quarters were prepped and ready for the next load of people.Again he hoped it was the last.Not that he was tired of helping but it was the weather grating at him.They could operate in these harsh conditions, the past few weeks had shown that, but he didn¡¯t like it much.Having to put on all this gear just to go outside, it used to be shorts and flip flops.He sighed, as he dressed in exactly what he had been complaining about.


    The deck had iced over when he got back outside making walking very interesting.The sand buckets were precisely for this, he carried a bucket in one hand and a lantern in the other. Casting sand in front as he walked it was still a bit slippery but better than before.As he got closer to the bow the spray was getting pretty bad, wind picking it up and blowing it back, where it froze nearly instantly.Good thing the wheelhouse door was on the side and not the front.Otherwise they would never get out out without breaking something.He finally made it back inside the warm room, Naomi and Minnie were playing together.The sounds of the fiddle and penny whistle complimented each other perfectly,the sounds in tune with the wind.


    Unfortunately it seemed the weather was not going to cooperate any more.The water was getting rougher the further north they cruised.First just the gentle heave the lake usually had, quickly turning into two, three then four foot waves.Promising more and worse to come.Wind gusts were coming hard and fast, nothing they couldn¡¯t handle but the oncoming villagers were a different story.Not much could be done about the weather, complaining never changed as much as a single rain drop.Never stopped anyone either though.Minnie was definitely not happy with the freezing spray all over her boat, ¡°It gets everywhere dad, works it¡¯s way through the smallest hole and when it freezes it cracks.¡±.¡°I know, but there¡¯s not much we can do about it, just repaint when we can, fix the cracks.¡±, Will said, ¡°I¡¯ve been making a note of everything so we can just have a couple of fix it days when we get to Newton or Laketown.¡±.As he said that the rain changed to sleet, peppering the boat with ice, ¡°Maybe three or four days.¡±, he sighed.


    As the miles piled up behind them, the hours marching past they did eventually get to the pickup spot at the old burrows.Just as the sun was rising.The swells had peaked at ten feet but with little chop, so it was a relatively easy trip.When they reached the cairn, which was unlit, Minnie let loose on the whistle to let the remaining villagers know it was time.Anchored forty or fifty yards off shore they would be able to see if anyone lit the pyre inside the cairn, or even waved a torch.Nothing so far.Safely anchored Minnie shut down the engine, Will went below and released most of the pressure in the boiler.No reason to hold it, they would probably be here for a few hours.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    While waiting for a sign from shore they had moved down to the mess.Looking out of the porthole every few minutes and still seeing nothing, Will wondered what the heck was going on.¡°They knew we were coming back didn¡¯t they.¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Sure they did, we told them two days ago, just about anyway.¡±, Naomi answered.Will figured to go ashore in a little while and see what was what.But first to finish his tea.¡°Hey there they are.¡± Minnie called from her spot at the port, ¡°Not too many though.¡±.Putting their dishes away the crew went to get ready.All the outer gear on, yet again, to face the ice and wind.Will didn¡¯t know if he was getting used to it but it wasn¡¯t all that bad out now.The slippery decks had been strewn with sand and guide ropes in place to help with footing.The two boats were dropped into the water, Minnie and Naomi in the smaller and Will in the dory.Quickly rowing to shore to meet their passengers.


    As they hit the beach the ice and snow crackled under the hulls.The boats were pulled nearly all the way out of the water, tipped on the side and roped to a stake driven into the frozen ground.You don¡¯t really want to lose your only way home.The villagers had seen them arrive and quickly came to meet the crew,there were only about forty people this time, quite a few bundles of belongings and supplies, but Will had expected more.¡°Is this all of you now?¡±, he asked, ¡°I thought there were a few more.¡±.A tall man stepped forward, he couldn¡¯t recall meeting him before.¡°Sorry captain, this is all that is coming, the Eld are still planning to visit the ice, as are a few older folk.¡±, he replied, ¡°They told me to take care of our people on this last trip.¡±.He seemed saddened by the idea of them staying.¡°What does visit the ice mean, and who are you?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Sorry, I am Jase and it means they are not going to come with us.¡± he answered with a sorrowful shake of his head.Will sighed ¡°I tried arguing with them before, it¡¯s their life, let¡¯s load up guys.¡±.With that said he started the boat into the water, so did Minnie and Naomi.Holding it fast while ten people were in each and the bulk of the supplies in the bigger boat.


    With a ¡°Hold fast please.¡±, they pushed off of shore and began to row to the Rose.It was deathly quiet, the visitors were terrified of the water. But equally determined to get to a better place.Not too many little ones, none under six years, it seemed most of the children had already made the trip. It was just a few minutes and then the boats were unloading the people onto the deck.Minnie and Naomi stayed aboard to help the visitors below and get settled for the trip.Will returned to shore for the last of the villagers.There were only ten left, waiting patiently with their bundles and bags.¡°The Eld still not coming then?¡±, he asked.¡°That¡¯s right captain,¡± answered a young man, ¡°They and most of the olders are staying, to visit the ice soon.My ma and pa too.¡±.Tears running down his cheeks and freezing as he said it.¡°They can¡¯t go on the water, it¡¯s hard for us, even with you here I¡¯m feeling it.Pa said to be strong for the family.¡±.Will sighed, this was their life, how could he force it.Did they have the right to end their life on their own terms?Especially faced with the prospect of travelling on the lake.He knew the Eld felt that they had failed the people and that was the reason to stay, let a new generation take over.


    Decision made, ¡°All right, I am going to say goodbye and them we are off, could one of you lead me please?¡±.A young lad of around sixteen stepped forward and headed off, Will followed.The snow had started falling heavy now and the foot steps of the previous travellers were nearly filled in all ready.It was just a few minutes to the burrows from shore and soon he was going down the spiralling steps.There was warmth in the air, but not as much when the village was full of life.No sounds of children playing, people living and cooking meals, nothing.The Eld were seated in their same circle, with about thirty others with them.All older people, just sitting close to each other, talking quietly.As he entered the grotto the all looked toward him.


    ¡°Welcome captain, and many thanks to you and your family.¡±, the oldest sad, followed by the nodding from all.He continued ¡°Our people have been saved, for now, but still threatened by the changing weather.¡±.Will nodded ¡°I know, this has worked for you for many years but not any more, change is needed.¡±. Another of the Eld spoke up ¡°We know, that is one reason we are staying, we were unable to see.¡±.The next added ¡°and we cannot go on the water, even around your soul, and your daughters souls, the waters would change us.¡±.Shrugging Will said ¡°I am not going to force you, or argue with you, any of you, if this is your way then do be it.I came to say goodbye.We won¡¯t be back here again.¡±.As he spoke you could see people relaxing, shoulders slumping down, fists unclenched aside they had been ready to fight.¡°Glad we are to hear you understand, I can see you have faced loss in the past, loss of loved ones.¡±, the oldest said.¡°He knows, he respects, he understands¡±, it was taken up as a chant, just barely audible over the wind from outside, drifting down the tunnels.


    As Will stood in the cave, all the Eld and the old people came and circled close.Reaching out a hand to pat his shoulder or shake his hands, still chanting ¡°he knows, he respects, he understands.¡±.Bowing his head ¡°I promise to come twice a year, to trade with and take care of your people, for as long as I am around.¡± he said.With those words the people took their seat again, with smiles and nods of gratitude.Slipping his woolly hat and gloves on,he prepared to leave, ¡°Goodbye, I am glad to have met you all.¡±.And he left.Climbing up the stairs that last sight would last in his memory forever.The people sitting around the dying fire, in the dimming light.Preparing to go to sleep, satisfied with their life, happy knowing the children and grandchildren would be safe.What more do you need, he thought.


    Returning to the surface was eye opening and brisk after the caves.The wind was blowing snow hard and visibility was quite low, his guide was sitting in the wind break of a large boulder.¡°Good thing your back up captain, full on blizzard coming I think.¡±, the lad said.¡°Well, let¡¯s get to shore quickly then.¡±, Will replied.The walk back to shore was easier with the wind at their backs and the waters were reached in a few minutes.The waiting villagers were in a circle in the lee of the dory, keeping out of the wind and stood when he came into sight.¡°All aboard then¡±, Will called and pushed the boat halfway into the cold water.


    Gingerly the people climbed in and sat low on the floor of the boat.Keeping the middle seat clear for rowing, Will placed their various bundles around the passengers.As it was fully loaded he gave the boat a mighty shove and jumped in as it slid fully into the lake.A wail rose from two or three people as they realized they were the last and would never see this part of their world again.As quickly as he was able Will rowed to the Rose, through the wet snow.It was still windy but a bit warmer on the lake then it had been on shore.Still cold though.Minnie was waiting and caught the line Will threw and guided them to the waiting stairs.Carefully and slowly guiding the passengers up and onto the deck, then below decks.The dory was brought up and tied to the davits for travel and the stairs secured.


    Minnie and Will stood at the rail, looking over at the rock cairn that marked where the village had been.¡°The old guys not coming then dad?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°No sweetie, they wanted to stay in their homes, til the end, to sleep in their beds.¡±, Will answered.¡°It¡¯s their life I guess, it¡¯s just sad.¡± she said with a sigh, leaning against him.¡°I know, all we could do was offer to help, and we did help lots of them.¡±, Will said, ¡°Just think of all the ones below, eating all the biscuits Naomi just made.¡±.That made her think, ¡°We should go help her with that, and the kettles on too, if you want tea, and biscuit¡¯s, you do want tea, don¡¯t you, and those yummy biscuits.¡±.He laughed, ¡°I always want tea and biscuits Min.¡±, and they went below, leaving the desolate coast behind.

 Last Trip

    Chapter 22.Last Trip


    Will had thought this last trip between burrows was going to be crowded, but it was the opposite.Just a couple of older children, the rest all the same age he appeared to be.After a quick meal of bread and cheese, or toast and cheese the majority went to spend the trip in crew quarters, sleeping, resting, anything to take their mind off of the waters just feet away.While anchored it was okay to use the stoves but as soon as they made steam and started back on course, the fires were put out.All the big lanterns extinguished, just a small safety lantern in each room.Everyone was told to not light any candles or oil lamps they might have brought with.Will was very specific, as he had been with every passenger trip.This one rule, if broken, would have dire consequences for the rules breaker.He didn¡¯t say what, but the threat had to be enough, for now.¡°Just think of this as a long nights rest folks, when you wake tomorrow, or go on deck, we¡¯ll be very close to your new homes.¡±, Will told them all, along with his no fires speech, ¡°Minnie and I are going to ready the boat, if you need anything, any questions then ask Naomi, she¡¯s in charge down here.¡±.


    The boiler was turned to full, coal filled in the auto loaders from the dwindling main bunkers, everything checked below, so they started getting dressed, oh yet again, in the winter gear.¡°There¡¯s a lot to be said for winter Min, but right now it¡¯s a pain putting all this on, then taking it off, then on and off, blah.¡±, Will complained as they readied to face the cold.¡°I just want a Christmas tree, and that fat guy to give me presents, and some Christmas cookies, oh and candy canes, they sound good, maybe some new socks too.¡±, Minnie said, pulling her boots on, dancing on one leg to do it.¡°I think we need new boots too, I¡¯m gonna see that cobbler in Newton and get us some easier, first thing when we get there.¡±, Will added, also pulling his boots on.They fit nicely, kept his feet warmish, but didn¡¯t do too much to keep water out.When they got the least bit damp it was harder to slip into them.


    But dress they did and went on deck.It was chilly, no, not chilly.Downright cold, bone chilling cold, face freezing cold, with numbing cheeks, even under the scarfs over their faces.Will was glad of his thick eyebrows and envied Minnies smooth facial fur, very warming indeed.He was wearing woolly gloves under thick leather and fur over mitts.A bit clumsy but dealing with wet frozen anchor chains was hard on bare hands.Together they checked the deck, everything was shipshape.Together they lifted the anchors and cranked then up, backs to the wind.The bow was open to the north wind and it was cold, the coldest part of the boat always.Heading into the wheelhouse was a relief and the wood stove was quickly lit.The kettle was slipped into its wire cradle, kept it in place, and started to heat up.Hats and gloves put on a drying/warming rack by the radiator, same with boots.She took off her coveralls, while Will just unbuttoned his to the waist, in case he had to leave quickly.Checking the compass, recording the time they were leaving, the throttle was pushed to one half and away they went.No happy steam whistle this time, Will pulled the fog horn and the deep mournful sound echoed back to the shore as the Rose made a long turn out to sea.


    Deep in the burrows the Eld heard and were happy their people were safe and on their way home.Around them the ones that stayed were lying by the dying fires, wrapped in their furs.The door to this cave room had been sealed with stone to keep predators out.The torches were flickering and going out, the small room was getting darker and colder.With light hearts they went to visit the ice.


    Will logged the days events as they got under way.The decision that had been made would nibble at his brain for years, but try as he might, he couldn¡¯t think of a way he could have handled it different.He said as much to Minnie.¡°What else could you do dad, pick them up, carry them here and lock them in a hold?¡±. she said.¡°I know, it¡¯s just hard not to tell people I know better, it¡¯s their way.¡±, Will answered, ¡°I guess I am just used to things being different, where we came from.¡±.Trying to lighten his mood Minnie had a new joke for him.¡°Knock knock dad.¡±, ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±, ¡°Mandy.¡±, ¡°Mandy who?¡±, ¡°Man de life boat, we¡¯re sinking.¡±.Well that helped a lot.¡°Did you think that one up?¡±, he asked.¡°Yeah, me and Naomi sat around yesterday while you slept and we have a few, you tell me one now.¡±, Minnie said happily.


    ¡°Hmmm, give me a sec¡±., thinking for a bit he said, ¡°Okay, here¡¯s a good one.You start it.¡±.¡°Start what.¡±, she asked.¡°The joke, the knock knock joke, you start.¡± Will told her.¡°Oh, okay, knock knock dad?¡±, ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±, ¡°I don¡¯t know you told me to start it.¡±.He couldn¡¯t help laughing at her confused look, ¡°That¡¯s the joke, it¡¯s on you.¡±.She just looked at him and snorted, ¡°Uh huh, very funny guy.I¡¯ll try that one on Naomi later, she won¡¯t get it either.¡±.


    As the boat headed away from the coast the heave was higher, at least eight feet now and the wind had picked up yet again.The only good thing was that the snow had mostly ended, just a few errant flakes being driven by the wind.Checking their course, speed, wind direction let them know how long of a trip this would be.¡°About eighteen hours then, sounds right dad?¡± Minnie asked.Will calculated the numbers and came to the same answer, ¡°Yup, the same as the last few times, last run though, I think we¡¯ve worn a rut in the water here.¡±.Minnie¡¯s eyes grew, ¡°Can we do that, it would be so much faster.¡±.¡°Sure¡±, Will said, ¡°If the water freezes, then just slide downhill all the way to the burrows.¡±.¡°But there¡¯s no hills on the water, that wouldn¡¯t work dad, we might¡­¡±, she realized he was kidding and just sighed, ¡°Nice try.¡±.


    The kettle had boiled by now and Will poured into the teapot, carefully as the boat was climbing and falling down the unending waves.Combined with the cold, outside was not very hospitable right now and he and Minnie were stuck in the wheelhouse for the duration.They could brace themselves and head outside then below decks if needed but it was much easier to stay in right now.Ropes had been setup to help with travelling along the deck, but it was still slippery from the spray.Will blew in the mess voice tube, Naomi answered fairly quickly, ¡°Having fun down there yet?¡±, he asked.¡°Oh yeah, the passengers asked if you could find bigger waves please.¡±, she replied.¡°Really?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°No, they didn¡¯t, they are mostly holding onto buckets, sitting on the floor in crew quarters.¡±, Naomi said.Well that sounds fun, ¡°Do you want to come up, I¡¯ll take a shift down there?¡±, Will asked.All he heard was cheering, ¡°I¡¯m on my way.¡±, he said.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Looking at his winter gear, warm and dry by the stove now, he started dressing again.Minnie laughed at him, ¡°No fun huh.¡±.He just shook his head, finished putting his hat on, then went out to meet Naomi.She was waiting at the top doors of the stairs.Making sure she was holding on he walked her back to the wheelhouse.¡°Thanks dad, this fresh air is wonderful.¡±, she gave him a hug and went in with Minnie.Taking a turn around deck, just to make sure everything was safe.Then going down to the the passenger deck.


    It was very quiet, the motion of the boat was somehow less out of sight of the waters.If you were sitting down you would hardly notice the rocking, unless your teacup slid off the table.Will opened crew quarters, after a quick knock.The first room was very quiet, mostly dark, all he could hear was snores and breathing.The opposite room was the same, which was odd, usually when it was this rough people didn¡¯t react well.But he would take the win.Next stop was the mess, there were a few people there.Looked like an extended family, a couple of olders, mom and pop, older kids.All just sitting at a one of the long tables, some looking slightly green though.They looked up as he entered.¡°Evening all, how are you all feeling?¡±, he asked with a smile.The older people just groaned and shook their heads, but the younger two seemed okay.


    ¡°We¡¯re fine captain, but ma, pa and ataa and anaa are pretty sick.¡±, the young lad said.Will shook his head, ¡°Sorry, not much I can do about the weather, but it won¡¯t be too long of a trip.¡±.He sat down, ¡°I¡¯m Will by the way, Will Harris.And you are?¡±.The boy, around twelve,pointed to himself first ¡°I¡¯m Arto¡±, pointing around the table, ¡°sister Sarsa, ma and pa.¡±.Will laughed, ¡°It might seem weird but ma and pa have names, right?¡±.Arto blushed a bit, Sarsa answered ¡°They are Kaida and Belet.¡±.She was obviously older and quite used to correcting her brother.Will clasped hands with Belet but Kaida just nodded at him, a wet cloth over her forehead.¡°And this is anaa and ataa, nice to meet you as well.¡±.Sarsa laughed ¡°No this is Varsa and Otto, they are ma¡¯s parents.¡±.¡°Oh, where I come from they would be grandparents , grandma and grandpa.¡±, Will said.The older people didn¡¯t talk, they seemed very nervous, but calmed when the children sat near them.


    Will could see the remnants of a meal, apparently everyone really enjoyed fresh bread with sliced cheese, something they had never eaten before.He went and poked around in the galley and helped himself to a couple of slices as well, a few pieces of cheese and a round or two of smoked sausage. ¡°Captain,¡±, Sarsa had come into the galley, ¡°Ma and pa, and the, what did you call them, the grandparents, are going to lie down, may Arto and I stay.¡±.He nodded, with a mouthful of cheese and bread, pointed at the chairs, waved them to it.When he came back into the mess he also brought in a jug of apple juice, with several of the wide bottomed mugs they used in inclement weather.Setting his plate of goodies down, he pointed to the jug, he asked if the children wanted some, and poured when they both nodded.¡°This is one of our favourite drinks, from Laketown, there¡¯s fruit orchards all around the town.¡±, he said.Sarsa asked him what an orchard was, but Arto was too busy drinking.¡°We had some when we came on board, Naomi had it warmed up and it was so good.¡±, she said.Will was off and story telling, something he enjoyed.¡°But hold tight, the mug might slide a bit.¡±, he said, reaching out and snagging an errant cup.Then back to his story about apple pie and how much Minnie and he liked it.


    Before he knew it they were yapping about shrimp and then shopping in Newton, Arto had passed out.Head on the table and snoring, Sarsa was still going strong though.He carefully picked up Arto and carried him to the room his parents were in, he saw an empty bunk and laid the boy down.The father, Belet,cracked an eyelid and waved in thanks, then rolled over to sleep again.As he re-entered the mess the voice tube whistled at him.¡°Hi guys, what¡¯s up?¡±, he answered.It was Minnie, ¡°I have to pee, so does Naomi, can you come up, like fast too?¡±, she asked.Will said yes, bidding Sarsa goodnight, went to the stairs where his gear hung and dressed quickly.Up the stairs and out on deck.What a difference a couple of hours made.He hadn¡¯t noticed, being so used to the water, that the waves had actually calmed.It was like there was a bad weather line and they had passed over it into the land of small waves and warmer air.


    He heard a call, turned and saw Minnie hanging out of the wheelhouse door ¡°Hurry up guy, we gotta gooooo!¡±.Waving that he was on his way he crunched over the frozen spray, holding a guide rope for support.As soon as he made it up the stairs, Naomi and Minnie dashed out, with a ¡°See you in a bit.¡±.Making sure they made it down he closed the door behind him and sat in the big chair.Now that the waters had calmed he put the kettle on and watched the windows until it boiled.Not much to see really, being pitch black out, not even a scrap of moonlight.Checking the log he could read Minnie¡¯s entries.


    8pm. Dad left for tea, Naomi came up to get a break, weathers cold and waves high, I miss eggs and milk.On course, half speed now.


    9pm. We told a bunch of jokes, then played music, weathers cold and waves high, wish we still had butter too.Still on course, half speed.


    10pm. Old guys still gone, probably talking his head off.Still cold and yuck out, but not as wavey.On course, went to a little bit past half speed, just cause.


    11pm.We¡¯re gonna call dad up, gotta use the head, still mostly horrible out, mostly.On course still, heading to the holes in the ground for the last time, I hope.


    Yup, he thought, business as usual in the log.We put down what¡¯s important at the time. Let¡¯s see, time for a entry.


    12pm. On course and speed, should be at the burrows by lunchtime.Girls abandoned me for below, good thing I can make tea here.


    After the log entry he pulled out his notebook and jotted down some to-do¡¯s, more game ideas, stories to write down.Things like that.Glancing outside from time to time, still dark and cold, but a good thing was that the waves continued to lessen until it was just the gentle heave that barely moved the boat at all.The passengers must truly appreciate it.He whistled below, first the galley, then the mess.Minnie answered finally from the mess.¡°Hi dad, just having a bite to eat.Naomi cooked up some fried ham and pancakes for us both, got some for you too, I¡¯ll bring it up in a minute k?¡±.¡°Thanks Min, just be careful on deck, still slippery.¡±, Will replied.In fact, he threw his gear on again, grabbed the sand bucket from outside the wheelhouse and spread it on the icy path to the stairs.He finished just as Minnie opened the upper door, carrying a covered tray.She carefully put it down and turned to shut the door, Will couldn¡¯t resist, waited until the right moment, then ¡°Hello sweetie.¡±, six inches behind her.


    ¡°Gaaaaahaaha.¡±, was the scream he heard, running for the wheelhouse and safety.¡°I¡¯m gonna get you dad.¡±, she called, her scampering feet coming closer and closer as he tried to get away, to no avail.She leaped onto his back, and with a handful of snow gave his face a thorough washing, laughing all the while.¡°That was a good one, let¡¯s get Naomi next.¡±, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s eat first, don¡¯t want cold pancakes, right?¡±, Will said, going back to retrieve his tray.¡°Well yeah,¡±, she said, trotting along beside him, ¡°Cold pancakes are the yuck, cold ham is okay, but cold tea¡­sounds terrible, oh, everyone¡¯s feeling better now that we are just bobbing along, bobbling along on the top of the beautiful briny lake.¡±.Will had to let out a deep belly laugh at that, her high pitched voice, sweetly singing.¡°Yup, we¡¯re bobbing along all right.¡±.

 And We鈥檙e Done

    Chapter 23. And We¡¯re Done


    Minnie did eventually forgive Will for scaring the heck out of her, and Will foresaw many jump scares in the future, for everyone.As long as no one fell overboard it was all good with him. He had shared his ham with her, which might have been the reason but he didn¡¯t mind really.They sat quite happily together, talking about looking forward to leaving the cold.That old saying about not appreciating what you have til it¡¯s gone was true , in this case anyway.There were many good things about cold weather that could be good, like having a steady supply of ice to keep food longer.Problem was they had nothing to put in their icebox.¡°Fish maybe.¡±, Will said.¡°Why would we keep fish instead of just fishing for it again?¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°Leftover fish is mostly yuck, toss it to the shrimpies.¡±.As she mentioned shrimp Will had a thought, didn¡¯t crabs thrive in colder water.He told Minnie as much but she still wasn¡¯t sure about eating them, ¡°Those little guys look so crunchy and leggy, all waving arms and eye things.¡±.¡°Well after we drop off these last guys, make sure they¡¯re safe, we¡¯ll take a couple of days rest, do nothing but fish and sleep.¡±, Will said, ¡°We¡¯ll toss some crab pots down deep and see what crawls in, you never know.¡±.Minnie rolled her eyes ¡°crawls in, sounds horrible dad.¡±.


    The time passed quite quickly, when Naomi whistled up they were both a bit startled.¡°Anyone still up there?¡±, she asked. Minnie grabbed the tube before Will could answer, ¡°Just the crabs.¡±.¡°Well you guys better get clacking on, everyone¡¯s awake and eager to be home.¡± she said with a laugh.Will checked their course and found them to be about eight hours from their destination.Letting Naomi know to pass that on, and to make some bread, their passengers favourite.¡°Going on deck for a bit, want to come?Just need some fresh air and stretch my legs.¡±, he asked Minnie.She agreed, tied the wheel on course and they dressed warmly one more time.As they stepped out onto the deck it was still slippery, Minnie reached for his hand.He didn¡¯t know who was supporting who, but that was okay, they had each other.


    The sound of the engine thumping away, stack chuffing smoke, the hiss of the water on the hull, all this made for a peaceful walk.For them anyway.Being able to enjoy moments like this was what made his life complete now.


    The bite of the cold eventually was a bit much, toes and fingers getting chilly.The wind, while not as fierce as it had been further north, was still brisk from the speed they were travelling.Will remembered his first cruise, oh so many years ago, stepping out on deck while the liner was moving.The wind had been very powerful, nearly blowing the door out of his hands.It had been worth it though, the night sky had been glorious.Bands of stars, just flowing across the sky, no light pollution from a city.He had tried to take pictures, but it couldn¡¯t be captured that way.They had sat on a lounger for a few minutes just gazing up, until it became a bit much on their old bones.Inside they went and had a bite to eat at the never ending buffets.Ah, Will thought, that¡¯s one thing I miss, maybe we should open a restaurant.¡°Hey, let¡¯s go in K?I can hardly feel my ears.¡±, Minnie poked him.¡°Oops, I was away for a minute, yeah let¡¯s go.¡±, he laughed.


    He went back to the wheelhouse but Minnie went down to help Naomi out with the villagers.It was always a bit lonely when she left, when he said constant companion he wasn¡¯t kidding.She had gone everywhere with him except the doctors offices.All his bill paying was done online, groceries ordered and delivered, he never really needed to leave his house.Every minute of the day she had been by his side.Now when she left to spend time doing things, living her best life, it was hard on him.He would never tell her but it was.


    The boat trip that led them here had been a spur of the moment thing.Going back to revisit places from before.¡°I guess someone got themselves a nice boat.¡±, he said aloud. He had only bought it the previous week, did some fixing up.Lights, horn, bilge pump, easy stuff.The treacherous outboard had run like a top, a nice forty horsepower, and the bonus that it didn¡¯t use mix gas.Thinking back he thought he should have probably checked the gas gauge too.Laughing to himself, glad I didn¡¯t.


    Now that the waves had calmed it was easy riding for the next few hours, and eventually the sun made its appearance.Naomi had come up with some breakfast, fried potatoes and salt pork.Very tasty but what a hankering he had for fresh fruit and veggies.But they did still have food, so he shouldn¡¯t complain.Some were in much worse situations than the crew was, he couldn¡¯t imagine what the passengers were going through.Having to shift their entire lives, they were a very resilient people.


    Now the best thing on his tray was a mug of his special tea, Naomi had one too.As they sat and sipped the marvellous brew Naomi said she could only stay a minute, Minnie was entertaining in the mess and they both knew that could be interesting.¡°That¡¯s one way to put it.¡±, Will laughed, knowing how his little friend loved being around people.Naomi finished her tea, gave him a hug and went back down to take care of her charges.And again he was alone.Puttering around the wheelhouse gave him something to do, tidying the maps and charts, a few of their own making now.Cleaning the chairs of crumbs, sweeping the floor up and out the door.Placing all the teacups, plates, napkins and such on the tray to take back down.With the cleanup mostly done he leaned back in his chair for a minute,


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 30/50


    Strength 49/50


    Vitality 47/50


    Stamina 46/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Navigation 4


    Mechanic 3


    Mason 1


    Outdoor Chef 2


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Minnie


    Best dog of allIf you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Age 6 (will be adjusted for racial type)


    Intelligence 20/25


    Strength 23/25


    Vitality 23/25


    Stamina 23/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Navigator 2


    Piloting 3


    Mechanic 2


    Crab Catcher


    Shrimper


    Tinker


    Joker


    Arborist


    Labourer 1


    The skill sailor has been learned.Able to perform all duties on a ship.


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 17


    Intelligence 30/50


    Strength 33/50


    Vitality 34/50


    Stamina 38/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Management 2


    Kitchen Artist


    Cooking 4


    Homemaker 2


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Piloting


    The skill probationary sailor has been learned, able to perform most of the duties on a ship.But not all.


    Not much in the way of improvements but that was okay with Will, he was quite happy with the way he was.Anything more, huge increases in skill, new talents learned would not help much.¡°Just not for me.¡±, he muttered to no one in particular, ¡°I¡¯ve had enough trouble adapting as it is.¡±.


    Turning his attention back to their course, by his calculations they should be there soon.He laughed, ¡°So there Minnie.¡±.When they had started this venture he had figured about ten days to two weeks to be completed, it was nice to be done.Hard to come to terms with though, that so many had chosen to stay at the old burrows.Sadly this was the reason they were finished ahead of schedule.Maybe when they passengers were off loaded and all was said and done, they would take a last trip north to see if any minds had changed. Just maybe though, the people had been pretty adamant when asked.He would talk it over with Minnie and Naomi first, perhaps with the Obbs too.See what they thought of the idea of one last check.


    The door banged open, startling him out of his thoughts, ¡°Hey dad, need a break or anything, I got real overwhelmed with all the people talking and stuff, not many littles to talk to and the bigger ones seem a bit mean.¡±.Will, hearing that, snapped to face her ¡°Did someone say or do something?To you or Naomi!¡±.Minnie shook her head hurriedly ¡°Nono, calm down, no one did anything.They¡¯re just not as friendly as the first ones, maybe cause of being older and creaky.¡±. Will could agree with that, when he was older there had been a few days when he would snap and snarl at people just cause he hurt.Who was he kidding, he thought, it had been many more than a few days, it was more often than not.Lucky he had no friends, they would have been driven away, same with family he guessed, wouldn¡¯t have meant to but sometimes the frustration burst out of him.Couldn¡¯t do what he used to, what he wanted to, even what he needed to.It had been bad.Even the boat proved he wasn¡¯t really fit anymore, forgetting to gas it up.What an old fool.If he hadn¡¯t been transported here, there had been some half thoughts, dark ones.


    He had been looking at Minnie while these thoughts flashed into his mind, she reached up and brushed her hand over his cheek, ¡°Really, no one was mean, just unhappy and sad.¡±.¡°Okay sweetie, but if anyone ever is.¡±, he didn¡¯t finish.She laughed ¡°I¡¯d shark punch them, like you did to the one that was gonna eat Naomi.¡±.His brave little girl.Turning to the map table he started showing her how close they were to end of journey.The little metal Rose had voyaged close to the coast now, nearly to the spot marked new burrows.¡°Nearly there huh, what¡¯s next for us?¡±, Minnie asked.Pointing to the map Will said ¡°Well, we have some obligations to Newton and Laketown.Both will need coal and ore to help them through the winter. That won¡¯t take long, their shoals are only a couple of days away from town.Get them both a big haul, then maybe we¡¯ll go south.Stephen said there¡¯s a place called FarHarbour.¡±.¡°Is that before Christmas, or after, cause I wanna do that yeah.¡±, Minnie replied.¡°Well of course we¡¯re going to do Christmas, put up a tree and decorate it.Give presents, have a huge dinner and collapse into a food coma for a couple of days.¡±, Will told her, We¡¯re gonna pick a good tree before we leave here, you get to cut it down.¡±. Minnie was a very competent person, an excellent pilot and navigator, could be trusted with the lives of everyone on board.She was tough, smart, diligent.She was also excitable, short tempered and quick to judge, quick to forgive too.In this case as Will had been talking about Christmas and all the fun that brought, she had begun to get ¡®spun up¡¯.¡°Are you going to buy me presents, and for Naomi, can I buy things for you, and help with dinner, we¡¯ll set the table, like you told me, have crackers and wear silly hats and tell jokes, oh dad it¡¯s gonna be such fun.¡±.The last words were squeaked so high they might have been nearly ultrasonic.Will couldn¡¯t help it, he picked her up and hugged her, ¡°All of that, Min, and more.This year and every year.¡±.


    As the last miles were eaten up by the Roses steady progress, several of the younger passengers had come up on deck to brave the weather and the water.It was not so absolutely unsettling now the coast could be seen.They were fairly close to shore, a sixty or so yards out and details of their new country could be seen.The coast was clear, haha, so Will and Minnie tied the ships wheel, dressed warmly and went out on deck and met their charges.Talked and visited for a little while, pointing out various landmarks.Then heading back in to take the controls again, as they neared the cairn that had been built, just like the other had been.Anchoring the customary thirty yards, give or take, off shore, the engine was shut down and preparations began to offload this last boat load of passengers.


    The dory and the last remaining folder boat were lowered into the icy water.Will, remembering the sharp attack, was always a bit on edge as he did this.He could see the sharp teeth snapping just inches away from his hand.The bones in his hand were probably too tough for the fish to bite through, but probably isn¡¯t definitely.The huge one that tried to bite his leg off hadn¡¯t been able to but there was so many factors that could have made it go in a different direction.¡°Might have been one-handed Willy¡±, he said, thinking aloud.¡°Why¡¯s that dad?You¡¯re already ¡­oh, I remember.I hates those fishies, but we showed them who¡¯s boss right?¡±, Minnie said. He nodded, still keeping an eye on the waters.As they watched for any sign of sharps, and happily found none, the rest of the villagers had come on deck.Waiting for their last ride to shore.The hold was opened and Naomi called up that all the baggage was on a skid and ready to be lifted up.It was only a few hundred pounds so Will simply lifted it by hand, no need to de-ice a crane.A couple of the village lads lent a helping hand and the bags and bundles were soon on deck.Will also lifted six of their remaining barrels of emergency supplies up, these in cargo nets though, didn¡¯t want them to slip off the pallet and break open.When all preparations were ready, Minnie ran up to the wheelhouse and laid on the steam whistle to let the village know they had returned.A few people, then a few more had started to gather around the cairn, where a large bonfire had been lit.


    Naomi had come on deck too, dressed in her winter work clothes, same as Will and Minnie.¡°Didn¡¯t you buy some other winter clothes in Newton, a little fancier than these?¡±, Will asked her, pointing at their rather drab outfits.¡°Oh we sure did, but I¡¯m not wearing them to work in, they might get dirty, or torn.¡±, she answered with a laugh.Minnie giggled too, ¡°We¡¯re saving them for when we want to impress.¡±.Who knew, he thought.Speaking of winter duds, he pulled out his notebook and scratched a quick reminder about boots.Using a pencil instead of pen and ink, which was more elegant and longer lasting, but the ink would freeze in the metal nib besides, pencils are easier to take a quick note with.He was sure glad they were invented here, if not he would have had to.


    The bigger boat was loaded with the first twenty people to go and the smaller with their possessions.Minnie hopped in and started for shore with the villagers, Will with the baggage.They quickly rowed to share and dropped off, then returned for the next bunch.Eager to go they climbed in the gently rocking boat and again both headed to drop off.Returning yet again, the last people stepped into the smaller boat and their various bags and bundles into the larger, along with the barrels.This time Naomi came along, there was no one left to protect from the waters emanation.Before leaving, Will again checked the anchors.Finding them good he and Naomi pulled for shore.His boat was fairly loaded with the barrels, a bit top heavy but nothing he couldn¡¯t handle.At least in the calm waters of today.A few days ago probably not, he and everything else in there would have gone for a swim.After making it safely to shore, jumping out and pulling the boat onto the ice and snow, he started unloading.Handing the bags to the villagers, but lifting out the barrels of supplies himself.They were a bit too heavy for anyone but crew.


    Seeing that Minnie and Naomi had finished with their passengers too, he called out, ¡°Hello friends, could you all gather round for a minute.¡±.

 Finishing Off With a Flourish

    Chapter 24.Finishing Off with a Flourish


    Will had asked all the new arrivals to gather around, and as they did he started passing out the baggage.The people knew what was who¡¯s, he was glad they did because it all was similar to him.Bag after reindeer hidebag, many bundles of clothes, dishes, what have you.They had been carefully carried in the Roses hold, it wouldn¡¯t do for them to be damaged at the last moment.For once the weather was cooperating, not much wind, the sunlight warm.Hoping this trend would stay as they made their way south again, he opened the neck of his coveralls, it was a warm one.


    Everyone was eager to get their possessions and find the new burrows.As this was going, most of the residents had come to greet the arrivals.Therd and his sons had made their way over to Will, greeting him happily, ¡°Well met captain, well met. Glad to see you and your family.¡±.Shaking hands all around Will was just as glad to see them, ¡°Your all looking well, things are coming back on track?¡±.For a second the lads didn¡¯t get it but then Din burst out laughing, ¡°Back on track!I get it, we were off track, but now we¡¯re back on, do you see father?¡±.Nodding at his son Therd laughed as well, ¡°I see, yes, things are coming along nicely, the rock is perfect and with the tools you gifted us we have cut three burrows now, and a great hall.¡±.This was good news, there was hope for their survival now.


    ¡°Is everyone back now, last couple of times there were still hunting parties out.¡±, Will asked.Therd shook his head, ¡°No, they¡¯re still out, the young people have made a far camp, near the mountains.Hunting, fishing, culling the herds.We all did it, that''s how I met Katya.¡±.Minnie had been visiting with Uma and all her littles, but came up to Will and asked if he needed a hand with the barrels of supplies. ¡°Oh yeah, they¡¯re a little heavy¡±, he said with a laugh.She yelled at Naomi, but the wind took up her words, so fixing a larger than normal snowball she launched it at the young girl.It took her in the back of the head and threw her face first into a drift.When she dug her way out she was a little annoyed, searching around for the culprit she spied Minnie, hiding behind Will.¡°It was you!¡±, she hissed and began to stalk over like a cat.Minnie squeaked and began to back away, ¡°It was dad, he did it, laughed too when you fell in the snow, should have heard him, a big old bald guy laugh, then he said I¡¯m gonna blame you Minnie, I cried but he laughed more, really really.¡±.Naomi wasn¡¯t buying it and picked up a pile of wet snow, ¡°This is going down your pants Min.¡±.She sprang after Minnie who ran with a yell of ¡°Hah, I¡¯m not wearing any.¡±.Will smiled at the shenanigans of the two, reached down and made two snowballs and threw them at the running targets.Missing Minnie, he hit Naomi in the legs and knocked her over.¡°See?¡±. Minnie screeched from behind a tree, ¡°Told you.¡±.From that moment, for the next ten minutes or so, Naomi chased Will and Minnie.From the village to the coast, a running snowball fight, until they collapsed beside the dory.They had to be careful around the village, one of their snowballs could do some real damage, an errant throw had knocked the stuffing out of Cal.¡°I¡¯m all right¡±, he managed to puff out, as Minnie tossed back ¡°Sorry guy.¡±, as she sped by.


    After the epic battle they returned to the drop off site, to find all the baggage had been claimed and carried off.Therd and his sons were waiting by the ration barrels.By the scuff marks they had tried to move them but had no luck.¡°Sorry captain, we tried but they¡¯re just too heavy.¡±, he said when the crew came back.¡°It¡¯s me that should be sorry Therd, I loaded them to what we can handle.¡±, Will replied.Minnie picked up a barrel and balanced it on her shoulder, Naomi did the same.Will had brought a net and tied two of the barrels up and slung them on his back.¡°Try rolling them boyos, keep control though.¡±, he advised.Din and Cal managed to tip one and carefully started rolling.Lucky the snow had been trampled into a path so the two lads managed to trundle it along.It was about a mile from the lakeshore to the burrows but everyone made it without dropping or breaking a load.


    When they arrived in the centre of town, the differences were obvious. Much more rock shards rimmed three more entrances and there were more chimneys with smoke drifting out.¡°Busy huh?¡±, Minnie said as she and Naomi carefully dropped their load down.The boys struggled to stand up the rolling barrel and left to get another.Therd nodded happily, ¡°Oh yes, those new tools cut the rock like it was air.With ten people cutting and shovelling we are cutting fifty feet a day.¡±.Shaking his head in admiration Will asked ¡°Well if we can help with that let us know, we are planning to leave today though.¡±.They were walking back to get the last three barrels of rations.Still not a terrible day, but the warming trend was lifting and there were some heavy clouds to the far north.Tor had joined them, but when he heard they were leaving today he huffed ¡°Good¡±, under his breath.Minnie of course could hear and immediately confronted him,¡°What¡¯s your problem?¡±.Not expecting that anyone would hear, or perhaps call him out, he backed off quickly from the irate person in front of him.¡°Well?¡±, she demanded, not backing up inch.He looked to his brothers and father for help, but none was incoming.¡°I told you to let it go, but you wouldn¡¯t listen.¡±, Din told him.¡°Let what go?¡±, Will asked.Cal answered ¡°He thinks you¡¯re going to take Jeri with you, she said to him she¡¯d go if you asked, that he was just a friend.He got mad, left the far camp and came home.¡±.Will sighed, I should have expected something like this, he thought.Spying a couple of felled trees, he asked the boys to sit.Therd went along with Naomi to the burrows.Minnie stayed beside her dad, very much not happy.


    ¡°We don¡¯t talk much about our lives to shore people.It¡¯s no offence, but that¡¯s just how we think of you all.We live very differently than you all.Tor, I talked with Jeri and, yes she could have been more to me.¡±. He stopped to gather his thoughts for a moment.Minnie was close to him and was a comfort, as always.Going on ¡°You know how the lake effects you, it doesn¡¯t us.We love the water, sharps and all.To live on shore is not for us.¡±.This was the difficult part ¡°I am over seventy of your years old, I will look like this for the next thousand years.When everyone we have ever known, and their great great great grandchildren are long forgotten, we will still be sailing the lake.¡±.Hearing this Tors face paled, ¡°We didn¡¯t know captain, this is, it¡¯s, I don¡¯t know what to say.¡±, he stammered.Din and Cal were equally stunned.Minnie spoke up ¡°it¡¯s just us, it will always be just us.Me and dad and Naomi, she¡¯s my sister you know.We¡¯ll remember you all, dad will write it down, me too but it hurts my hand a bit, he¡¯ll write about your family, then about your kids, I¡¯ll come see Uma and Oona, and then their littles.I¡¯ll tell them about the mirror girls and how they made me happy.But it will always just be us, and the Rose, see?¡±.She held out her hand with the tattoo on it.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Tor stood, held his hand out to Will, ¡°Captain I¡¯m sorry for how I acted.I was jealous and bad tempered.¡±.Taking the man¡¯s hand Will shook, ¡°No harm done my friend, love can make fools of us all.¡±.Taking in the land around them, the rugged plains with the forest near.Dark trees hiding secrets in the depths.Snow capped mountains in the distance, riding up to impossible heights.The herds of reindeer and elk grazing near the hidden village.¡°This is a wonderful place to live.Challenging for sure,but this is what makes you strong.¡±, he sighed, ¡°But never for us, we have miles to go and places to see yet, before we rest.Now, let¡¯s get all of these supplies below ground.¡±.It was just a couple of hundred yards back to shore, that took just a few minutes and they were heading back with the rations.Will and Minnie hefting one each and the Obb boys rolling the last.They passed through the rough, but sturdy fence that surrounded the village.Logs dug into the ground then frozen in place, strong and high enough to keep out the local wildlife.There were higher towers in two corners where a watch would be kept, but the tall gate would be closed at night.


    Naomi was waiting with Katya at the entrances and catching sight of Will and Minnie, ran to meet them.¡°Did anyone get a talking to then?¡±, she asked.Tor looked down, ¡°I was acting poorly, captain set me straight, and Minnie.¡±.Naomi patted his arm, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re still friends.¡±.Minnie added ¡°Yeah guys, tell us who you want to be your sweetheart, don¡¯t be shy, who¡¯s your sugar pie, honey bunch?¡±.The boys laughed and blushed, glanced at their ma and started down the curving passage below, chatting to Min and Naomi.Katya caught Wills arm, ¡°That was nicely done captain, thank you for being gentle with him.¡±.He laughed, ¡°You¡¯re welcome, those are three good lads there.I hope the bad times are done with now, time for family and grand babies soon I think.¡±.She nodded ¡°I hope so, I miss the babies, they grow so fast.¡±.¡°My wife loved babies too, all ages but the tiny ones most of all.¡±, Will remembered. ¡°Were you together long captain, had many children?¡±, Katya asked.¡°We were married for just over fifty five years, had two children and four grandkids, a wonderful life.¡±,Will sighed, ¡°Just wonderful.¡±.


    They headed down the fresh cut ramp into the warm caves below.At the bottom they found a mess of broken wood and ration packages.Cal was trying to clean it up, but laughed nervously when his ma and Will came into view.¡°Ahaha, it just got away from us, and Din couldn¡¯t stop it, and the lid was loose cause he was looking for oatmeal, and we¡¯re sorry.¡±.¡°It should be okay still, looks mostly okay.That stuff is packed tight in there.¡±, Will said, poking through the rubble.They picked up all the packets and piled them on top of the other barrels, neatly lined up to one side of the large room.


    Will was amazed at how much had been done in such a short time.This cavern?Cave?Was easily as big as the one at the old burrows had been.The same off shoot rooms, colourful hangings over the openings for privacy.Fires burning in carved stoves in the walls, very homey now.The temperature was perfect and there was oatmeal cooking on the hobs, Din would be happy.There were at least fifty people waiting, as before they were the representatives of each family.Minnie and Naomi were sitting on seats carved out of the living rock, in a circle around the central fireplace.Minnie waved him over to sit with them, and as he did the others had apparently been waiting for him.As one the villagers clasped their hands and bowed.Many calls of thank you, loud and whispered, echoed from the walls.The new Eld took their places before the remaining stone seats beside the crew, Katya, Arno, others that Will didn¡¯t know.They bowed as well, nodding and smiling their thanks.


    Will stood, his daughters beside him.Looked over at the crowd, whispered to Minnie, ¡°What the heck do I say?¡±.She whispered back ¡°Say you¡¯re welcome.¡±, Naomi added ¡°Yup, that¡¯s the polite thing.¡±.Facing the crowd, looking at their faces, burning this moment in, ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡±.At these simple words a sigh of relief passed through the crowd and they began to be a bit happier.Will asked Katya ¡°What was that, they were a bit nervous about something?¡±.She gave him a serious look ¡°Some were worried you would ask for much, for payment, I told the people that wouldn¡¯t happen,but some were still concerned.¡±.¡°We don¡¯t work like that, we help where we can, trade too but always fairly.¡±, Will said.She nodded, ¡°We know.¡±.


    Arno added ¡°We have trade goods for you.Many furs, reindeer and elk hides, deer skins, all for you for saving us, it is all being brought to the shore now, for you to load when you go.¡±.Will was a bit stunned, they hadn¡¯t expected to gain anything but friends from what they had done over the past few days.It hadn¡¯t really cost them anything but time, and that was one thing they had.¡°Well, thank you.I¡¯m sure they will trade well in Newton and Laketown.They have an odd way of doing things but it all works out I guess.They don¡¯t use money, just trade credit.¡±.¡°What¡¯s money?¡± Arno asked, and ¡°What¡¯s credit?¡± asked Katya.Will thought for a moment, patted Naomi on the shoulder andsaid ¡°Hey, these guys have questions for you.¡±.As she turned to answer he slid out of his seat and walked through the lessening crowd to the ramp to outside.Minnie of course came with him.¡°Didn¡¯t want to answer?¡± she asked.He shrugged ¡°She knows their system better than me, and to be honest I was feeling a little closed in down there.Caves are not for me.¡±.Pointing at the sky, ¡°It¡¯s getting a bit late, we need to get back aboard and get cracking on, I want to find that coal Naomi saw.And I¡¯d like to sleep in my own bed tonight,I¡¯m a bit sick of the wheelhouse chair.¡±.¡°So let¡¯s go, toss the furries into the hold til we¡¯re moving, I¡¯ll go get Naomi.¡± Minnie said and she turned and went back down.


    A few minutes later and the two came back up.The cold was coming back as the evening came on but they were still dressed for it.Hats and gloves were put on quickly.As they prepared to go, what looked like the entire village was gathering around them.It was both happy and sad as they walked to shore and their boats.This chapter was over but a new one would start.Will was amazed at the sight of bundles of furs and skins, waiting to be loaded.Naomi and Minnie started loading and were quickly rowing the first load out.Will had asked Minnie to bring something back and was waiting for them to return.He could see them offloading on the Rose and the stack started to let out smoke.After a few minutes both boats were returning for the last load and Will.The boats beached with a crunch and four wooden crates were carefully lifted out, Minnie and Naomi taking care not to drop them.When Will opened them the villagers were delighted.It was more of the iron works from Laketown.Axe heads, saws of all types, knife blades, chisels for wood and rock, spear heads, hundreds of arrow heads.All lying in oiled paper to prevent rust.Four crates of this, the difference between life and death for these people.¡°Use them well friends.¡± Will called over the people talking.¡°We must be off, but we¡¯ll be back.Twice a year we¡¯ll come, listen for the whistle at the end of winter and at the beginning of the next.¡±.The furs were all loaded, Minnie was going through the crowd making her goodbyes to all her new friends.Same with Naomi, she always hit it off with the people her own age and they were gathered near her now.Much hugging and shaking of hands but it was time to go.Taking their places at the oars Will pushed the folder first then the dory, jumping in as it slid into the icy water.


    The shore fell away and the torches held by some began to be lit, to show their way back home.As Will, Minnie and Naomi climbed aboard the Rose they quickly unloaded the heavy bales and threw then into the hold with the others.Boats lifted up and locked in place, anchors lifted.Minnie was behind the wheel with Will and Naomi beside her.She pushed the throttle to one quarter and the Rose steamed away.The shore and the people lining it falling away into shadow and mist.It was time to get moving again.

 You鈥檙e Getting Warmer

    Chapter 25. You¡¯re Getting Warmer


    As they chugged away from the shore Will felt a weight lifting, a weight he hadn¡¯t realized he was carrying.The last weeks had been one of the busiest since he had arrived here.Wearing on all of them, Rose included.Down time was needed and he hoped they would get it.Supplies were low, fuel was low, that was first order of business.To find that coal shoal, ¡°Nice one dad.¡±, and load up.As usual Minnie was reading his log over his shoulder.The two of them were in the wheelhouse, Naomi was taking a long soak, Minnie was next.It was relaxing to be off schedule, nothing really pressing at them.Just idling along, keeping an eye on the coast.Nothing much planned for meals, a what have you day now.¡°I¡¯ll tell you something though dad, our house needs a good cleaning, it¡¯s a mess downstairs.¡± Minnie said.¡°Oh yeah, we¡¯ve had a few people over.¡±, Will agreed, ¡°We can get to that when we find the coal.¡±.At that moment the voice tube whistled, it was Naomi letting Minnie know she was done and had run Minnie a fresh hot bath.She was up and out, with a ¡°Seeya later stinky.¡±, door closing behind her.Well that was fast, he thought, she must have really wanted a bath.


    About an hour after Minnie left to bathe the whistle called again.This time it was Min, letting him know she was done and she had run him a fresh hot bath.¡°It¡¯s your turn to relax dad, come on down.¡±.


    Looking out the sun had gone, it was nearly full dark now.They had only travelled a couple of hours from the burrows on a southerly course, but it was a start.The water was still calm, the only light from a full moon.The coast could barely be seen, so he decided to end their days voyaging here, anchored a hundred yards off of the coast.He let Minnie know he¡¯d be down in a bit.Throttle off, wheelhouse closed up tight for the night.Lantern in hand he stepped out on to the bow and dropped anchor, they went deep but bit hard below.The Rose swung a bit, like getting comfortable in bed for the night, then settled into a gentle rocking.A final walk around on the cold deck, checking davits, stair latches, hatch covers, everything was shipshape so he finally went below.Again it was a different world.Warm and cosy, laughter coming from the mess.He stripped off the dreaded outer gear, hung it in place, boots on the thick mat and his gloves and hat on a shelf.Ah, how good it felt to be in shorts and slippers.


    Sticking his head in the mess door he found Minnie and Naomi playing checkers this time.¡°Going for that bath guys, I¡¯ll be back¡±, he said with a laugh.Heading down the corridor to the bathing room he heard Naomi ask ¡°Why does he always say ¡®I¡¯ll be back¡¯ like that?¡±.Minnie answered ¡°I dunno, makes him happy though.¡±.Hmm, he thought, maybe I¡¯ll have to try and write the story of those movies, be a real challenge.


    Reaching the bath room, which really was just that.A small room with a large cast iron, claw foot bath tub.A couple of racks for towels and clothes, thick mats on the floor to absorb splashes and drips.Two outlets, one cold from their tanks with a hand pump and one from their boiler for hot.Usually he showered off with salt water, pumped from outside.But in this climate the water was liquid ice and while still refreshing, in an eye popping manner, was not very relaxing.The lake water was different in some fashion than the salt water of his first worlds oceans.More¡­something, it was hard to put into words.Ocean salt water dried on your skin, left a sticky residue, but the lake water of this world was nicer maybe, easier on you.That might be just for the crew though, it was pretty hard on the other people that lived on the shore.


    He was thinking all this as he stripped off, and climbed into the steaming tub.Pure bliss as he sank in the hot water.Those first few seconds washed all his worries away, just for a little while, but that was enough.Soaking up to his moustache with a wet flannel on his head for a few minutes, just to loosen things up.Then scrubbing with a long handled brush and soap.It was a very refreshed Will that emerged from the bath room, clad in a clean caftan.It took a few minutes for the bath to empty into their waste tanks and to pick up dirty clothes and towels and drop them into the laundry room next door.He had shaved face and head, and felt ready to take on the world.


    As he entered the mess Minnie and Naomi were both dressed much the same as he was.He had found a caftan in his room when he first came on the Rose and loved it.When they had gone shopping in Newton he found a tailor who made him some more.Minnie had liked the way he looked andordered a few to fit her.Naomi had been a little less comfortable with wearing different clothes than she was used to.It was just that young women dressed a certain way, young men another, then the older you got your clothes changed along with you.This attitude had altered quite quickly when she joined the crew.After months of going swimming, water fights, hard work in all weather there wasn¡¯t much point of wearing the same clothing all the time.Not that they ran around in their underwear, well Minnie did but that was just Minnie.Her sunny outlook on life was one of Wills greatest joys and he wasn¡¯t going to do anything to change it.But wearing shorts, tees and flip flops on deck was about all Will wore in the sunny summer days, Minnie the same.Naomi had come around and now they all wore the same, mostly.Sometimes she and Minnie would wear summer dresses, or skirts, sometimes Will wore a long belted robe.Always with a hat though, that was a must.


    But here they were, all freshly washed and relaxed.Minnie was still brushing various parts, ears, tail and so forth.Her arm and leg hair was usually very easy to take care of, same with her back and chest.Her head was a different story, a combination of long hair, short hair, and fur.Without constant care it could end up quite the mess, woolly hats didn¡¯t help the situation either.In the near future those things would be back in storage for the next six months.¡°Hey you¡±, Minnie was poking him on the forehead, ¡°No sleepy yet.¡±.¡°I wasn¡¯t sleeping, I was just resting my eyes for a minute.¡± he protested.¡°Sure you were, I¡¯ve heard that one before dad.¡±, Naomi laughed.There was a spread of fresh bread, cheese and hard sausage, Minnie and Naomi had been munching away but there was plenty left.¡°Now this might put me to sleep.¡±, Will said, loading a plate.¡°Well that¡¯s okay, I¡¯m pretty tired too.¡±, Minnie replied.¡°Been some long days lately, I¡¯m for bed after this.The dishes can wait til tomorrow.¡±, Naomi added. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    It was about fifteen minutes later, bellies full, that the weary crew stood up with a stretch.Will packed the sausage and cheese up and put it back into the iced box, now full of ice.Naomi covered the bread and that went into the galley for the morning.Minnie helped by collapsing at the table and waiting for Will to carry her to their cabin.It had been a tiring time.Everything packed up for the night Naomi headed to her cabin, Will picked up Minnie, and went into theirs.Laying her down, she woke up and started getting ready for bed.Moving very slowly she stripped down and out on her one piece pyjamas, then snuggled under the quilts.Will laughed, then headed back down the corridor and snuffed the lanterns.Only the light from his open door was left now, Naomi called goodnight one more time then it was all quiet.He closed his door and readied for sleep.Laying in the warm bed, Minnie slow breathing beside him, he was overcome with a feeling of contentment.This felt right, and that¡¯s all you can ask for.¡°Goodnight Min.¡±, he whispered as he dropped off, rocked to sleep.


    Morning came, the water was still gentle with a little bit of light coming in through the frosty port.Minnie¡¯s side of the big bed was unnaturally tidy, her usual nest of blankets was still tight around her.None on the floor, none flung over Will, she must have exhausted, he thought.He dressed quietly and exited without making too much noise.The corridor was dark and a bit chilly,no radiators here.Knowing the ship like the back of his hand helped, walking through the darkness.Opening the mess then into the galley he found the lantern and sparked it alight.The familiar comfortable kitchen was revealed by the flickering lantern, soon steadying.No porthole in here, just the lantern light. During the day the ceiling lanterns would be lit, but they weren¡¯t needed now.The dimmer light was cosier, and he didn¡¯t need much to light the wood stove he preferred to use.


    The kettle was filled and put on, a comforting morning ritual.Giving him time to think and plan the next leg of their voyage.With Minnies and Naomi¡¯s input of course.He wasn¡¯t just going to decide what and where without talking about it.But tea, gives you time to contemplate, nearly too hot to drink, only careful sips would do it.A special blend today he thought, filling the tea ball with those magical leaves.They had drank a few pots of this but the level seemed the same, must be a trick of the light.As he went to examine the box further a stick cracked with a snap in the firebox, startling him a bit.And forgetting, for some reason, to check the tea box.Closing it carefully and putting it back in the secure cupboard it left his mind, as it had many times before.


    Tea made and poured into his mug the next step was going on deck.Getting dressed was a bit of a chore still, but there was no need for the thick work coveralls.A warm jacket and boots would be fine for a short time.Climbing up and out the air was fresh and clean.The bit of wind was cold but he turned his back to it and it was okay.The weather was much of the same today, no snow yet but there were some heavy clouds above and to the north, where the wind came whistling down from.Water calm, a bit more heave but nothing like the twenty foot swells of a week or so ago.He walked the entire deck while drinking his cooling tea, every inch of rail inspected, all the glass on the wheelhouse, anchor chains holding them well.The coast was nearly invisible in the distance.Blending with the sky, all shades of white and grey, no trace of black.They would have to cruise closer to find what they needed.The wind was blowing up his jacket so that was that, back below he went.Poured another cuppa and sat in the small ships office and wrote his log.


    Hmm, how to start today?Woke up, drank tea, did nothing, fell asleep.Pretty riveting stuff.We¡¯re still searching for the coal.In the southern coasts it¡¯s pretty common, but not up here.Almost as it is been planned.He had supposed that before, did Elaith and brings like him plan this world?There was a word that had been wiggling around in his brain, whenever this subject rose up.Terraforming.This world was neatly divided, the terrible water effect, surface coal and ore, sometimes things were too easy and other things were impossible.As Minnie would say, blah, no point in supposing.Time to start breakfast, going to be a busy day.


    First though, he went to the engine room and set the boiler to full, checked all the water levels.He had to drop a few gallons in the reserve, they always had barrels of fresh purified water on hand for that.Filled the auto loaders from their dwindling supplies.There was still a couple of hundred miles a cruising left and he knew that shoal was close.So that was number one priority.A thought hit him and he went back to check the log, to see what day Naomi had spotted the coal.Going back through the log made him smile.When Minnie wrote the days events or made notes while they travelled, she also doodled.The three crew were always present, always wearing hats.Sometimes Minnie would be riding on cartoon Wills shoulders, or standing heroically at the top of a page.Peeking around the corner of another or throwing a snowball at a fleeing stick Naomi. Very entertaining.Leafing back he found the entry finally.It was before they had encountered the burrows, a couple of days before actually.So if they continued on their present course they should find it, and soon.They could always burn wood to heat the boiler but it wasn¡¯t as efficient by any stretch.The amount of wood needed would burn up what they had on hand in a couple of days.It would work though, and if need be they could always go ashore and go logging for a couple of days to fill the hold.Time would tell.


    Wow, he thought, I sure get distracted easily.First thinking about breakfast, and then two hours later here I am still hungry, next stop the galley.Minnie and Naomi were still sleeping but the smell of frying ham and potatoes, and toasting bread would surely wake them.Pulling down the pan from the rack, slicing ham, melting lard took a few minutes then in it went to start sizzling.Potatoes were coming nicely, crispy edges and nice and buttery.Bread cut nice and thick and onto the copper toast rack.It was only some times, like this one, that he missed the ease of his previous life.Simply put bread in and toast popped out.But the bread, what a difference there was.Firmer, tastier, better in every way than the millions of plastic wrapped loaves from before.And to be honest with himself, the toaster rack they used was just as quick.He had used one like it before when the family used to tent camp.A pump gas stove, pan for eggs on one side and toast rack on the other.So identical to the one he used now that he had actually looked for a company logo when he saw it first.


    Setting the table, bringing in the covered platters of food, he went and banged on Naomi¡¯s door, hearing a squeal, then opened his cabin and yelled breakfast.Minnie sat up with a squeak, then a sniff, ¡°Ooh it that ham and taters for breakfast?¡±.¡°Yup, better gets dressed before Naomi eats it all.¡±, Will said.¡°I might do that dad.¡±, Naomi called as she rushed out of her room and headed for the galley.¡°Nooo,¡± Minnie called, throwing a robe on and running after her, ¡°I¡¯m starving, at least a piece of toast, and a bit of ham, pleeeease.¡±.She disappeared into the mess, Will followed right after, someone had to referee.

 Success

    Chapter 26 Success


    Breakfast was fun.  The day was planned out, but like all plans anything could change at the drop of a dime, and it didn¡¯t have to be written in stone. Important things were discussed. The fact that Naomi didn¡¯t like crusts on her toast or sandwich. Minnie found it hard to understand, ¡°But the crust holds everything together, without it all the sandwich stuff leaks out, and there¡¯s nothing to hold onto your toast with.¡±. Naomi countered with ¡°Sometimes you don¡¯t even eat your crusts, sometimes you do, I¡¯m just a no crust person.¡±. ¡°Dad¡­dad¡­, are you even paying attention?¡±, Minnie asked. ¡°Um, you like crusts, Naomi doesn¡¯t, is that right?¡± Will answered. ¡°That¡¯s it, who¡¯s right?¡± , she asked. Shrugging he said ¡°Just a matter of taste, I like tea and pickles, you don¡¯t, I don¡¯t like milk, you do. There¡¯s no right way.¡±. ¡°I guess, but it¡¯s just weird.¡±, Min replied. ¡°Tell you what, you can have my crusts.¡±, Naomi said and chucked a handful of crusts at Minnie. Will made the mistake of laughing, then he got that handful thrown back at him. It was an interesting few minutes. They were all a bit crumby afterwards, but brushed off nicely.


    After breakfast was done, and cleaned up, Minnie and Will went on deck to start the boat moving. Dressing in the warm thick outer gear once more, them going onto the cold deck. ¡°Not going to miss this much dad, just too much work.¡±, Minnie complained. ¡°I totally agree, I¡¯ve never been a winter person, and this is just long enough.¡± he answered. The anchors cooperated and were pulled in smoothly, Will hit half ahead and steered the Rose closer to shore, still heading south. After making sure things were going smoothly and Minnie had control, ¡°I¡¯m heading below, we have a ton of bedding and other laundry to wash, I¡¯ve gotta empty and rinse tanks, fill our fresh water. You okay for a couple of hours?¡±, he said. ¡°Oh yeah, I¡¯ve got my bag of stuff, and I¡¯ll keep an eye out for coal, right.¡±, Minnie replied. He leaned over and rested his forehead on hers, ¡°Love you sweety, I¡¯ll be back.¡±. She laughed.


    He still had his winter clothes on, Minnie had stripped hers off and was comfortable in the big chair, so he slipped out the door and made sure it clicked shut behind him.Carefully walking on the slippery deck to the stair shed then below.Nice and warm here, but no time to dawdle.Chores awaited.He found Naomi cleaning the crew rooms so he gathered all the bedding and took it to the laundry room.There was quite a stack.He filled both washers with a load, added soap and water and started to spin the drums.Not too fast as the clothes would just stick to the inside, but not too slow as it wouldn¡¯t agitate properly.Just a few minutes, then dump the soapy water and repeat for a rinse.Then run the sopping sheets and blankets through the mangle a couple of times to squeeze dry them, he figured each load took about twenty minutes from start to ready to hang dry.Doing two machines at a time helped and in an hour he had all the sheets ready to hang in the holds.Naomi had swept out the main hold and strung the lines while he was washing.They hung the sheets together, and left the access door open so warm air from the inside could dry the laundry faster.¡°That¡¯s a lot of work, and there¡¯s still more.Pillowcases, blankets, this is an all day job.¡±, Will said as they finally finished.¡°Oh yes, easier with two people though, Minnie helped last time.She didn¡¯t like the soap on her fur much though.¡±, Naomi replied.Will went to the mess and whistled up to the wheelhouse, ¡°Everything okay up there?¡±.¡°Yup¡±, Minnie said, ¡°Just playing solitaire and drawing, no coal yet dad.¡±.¡°Roger roger, I¡¯m still doing laundry, let me know if you need me.¡±, he closed the voice tube.


    Back to it, he went and swept out the second cargo hold, the one used for ore.It was very clean from not being used in a while, since Laketowns last run.Stringing up the lines was but a few minutes work, everything was in place.While he was doing that Naomi had started two loads and was about to load them into the mangle.As he went to help he heard the steam whistle going off.Rushing to the galley he called up again.Minnie answered with ¡°Found the coal dad, about a half hour ahead.¡±.¡°That¡¯s great news Min, I¡¯ll be up in a few to help anchor.¡±, Will replied.¡°Okay dokey.¡±, she said and closed off.He went to tell Naomi the good news and they quickly finished off the mangling and then hung the load to dry.As that was finishing they heard the engine wind down as Minnie conned the boat into place.Then it was dress warm again and on deck, Naomi too.


    The cold wind bit into their hands through the woollen mitts so Will put on his thick leather over mitts on, that worked better.Same with his toque, it was just too windy for just that too, so up went the leather covered hood.The coast was about fifty yards away and on a point of land to the port bow was the familiar sight of a shoal, pushing its way into the lake.Still lots of snow but the black line was hard to miss.From this distance he couldn¡¯t tell which kind of coal it was but it didn¡¯t really matter, they needed it.Going to the bow he got Minnies attention and pointed at the anchors, she slowed the ship until they were barely moving and they dropped anchor.He pulled the pin on the port windlass, then Naomi did the starboard.Surprisingly they only dropped about thirty feet and hit bottom, that was a bit unusual as the drop off from shore was surprisingly deep most of the time.But be as it may, not here.Port and starboard were down and holding, Minnie gave a bit of a pull forward and then in reverse but they held.The engine shut down and that deep vibration was gone.


    They went into the wheelhouse to warm up and to collect Minnie.She was dressing in her gear, everything packed and ready, ¡°Lunch first, before we start loading?¡±, she asked sadly, looking outside at the icy world.¡°How about lunch, finish chores below, dinner, sleep the night, then start loading tomorrow?¡±, Will said with a laugh, ¡°This isn¡¯t a job guys, this is our home, we do what we want to, remember?¡±.¡°That works for me dad.¡±, Naomi said with a smile, ¡°Oh yeah, I¡¯m ready to do laundry, at least it¡¯s warm.¡±, Minnie added.¡°An automatic dryer would be nice about now, but I don¡¯t see it ever happening.¡± Will mused.¡°What¡¯s a dryer?¡±, Naomi asked, ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned it before but I always forget to ask.¡±.Hmmm, ¡°It¡¯s a box that spins the wet clothes, with electric heat to dry it fast.¡±, he explained.¡°Could we make one, it would be quicker?¡±, Naomi asked again.¡°I don¡¯t think so, I¡¯m not sure how to generate power, I know you could do it with wind, and with water.We have lots of that , but to make the thing that makes the thing to do that, I don¡¯t know how.¡± Will replied.¡°Oh well, sounds like too much work to me, let¡¯s just finish up the normal way.¡±, Minnie said.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    They had made it below while talking and Will went to spin some more loads while Minnie and Naomi used the mangle.With the three of them the backlog of dirty bedding and clothes were done in an hour, just in time for a light lunch.Just tea and biscuits for Will, a little more substantial for Minnie and Naomi though, they were, as Will put it, ¡®Growing girls¡¯.¡°Yeah, I think I am growing, outwards that is, not enough exercise lately.¡±, Naomi sighed.¡°I feel the same way, we can¡¯t go swimming, play tag on deck, no water fights, just shovelling snow and that¡¯s blah.¡±, Minnie agreed.Will had to have a think about that, what could they do to exercise? Running was out, limited space, what about jumping jacks or burpees, nope.Dancing is fun and can be great workouts but there were limited music options, so that was out too.But then he had it, skipping.Either by yourself or jumping rope with a couple of friends, it was great for exercise.He was going to work on if for a couple of days, then surprise them.See how it goes over.It would have to be done in the hold though, high ceilings, and less stuff to break.Right now they¡¯re full of laundry and speaking of that¡­, ¡°I think those first few loads might be dry, I¡¯ll be right back.¡±, he left them to finish their lunch, took dishes to the galley and went to check things out.Mostly dry, a good ironing would finish them off and keep the fresh smell longer.Next ones to use these would probably be a coal crew from Newton, or maybe Laketown.It was nice to take care of the kids, they sure worked hard enough.


    Ironing would have to be done in the mess, keeping irons hot on the galley stoves, but that could wait til everything was ready to iron.Pulling these ones down and starting to hang more was pretty mindless work.He had still been thinking about skipping ropes, but couldn¡¯t remember one thing and it was driving him slightly bonkers.One person jumping in and over two ropes, swung by two other people.Remembering his kids doing it forever ago, and even his sister and him even more forever ago.He hadn¡¯t thought of those days in a very long time, ¡°What brought that memory up I wonder?¡±, he spoke aloud.¡°What¡¯s that you said dad?¡±, Minnie asked, standing behind him with yet another basket of laundry to hang.Will laughed ¡°Nothing much, just remembered something from when I was a kid.¡±.She nodded, knowing he would probably get around to telling her, in his own time that is.¡°So this is the last of it, Naomi said our tanks are full of the grey stuff, I can dump that in a minute, maybe the yucky tank too, cause we¡¯re not moving right now, but it might freeze into a, what¡¯s that thing, the floating ice thing you were telling us about.¡±.¡°Ice berg, that¡¯s the name.¡±, Will answered.¡°Yeah, but if we dump our tanks won¡¯t it just sit around us and freeze, a poop berg.¡±, Minnie laughed .He sighed ¡°I¡¯m not sure I want to find out, go ahead and dump the grey one, but not the black one, k?¡±.She dropped the heavy basket, saluted and left with a ¡°Seeya later alligator.¡±.


    As he hung more pillowcases he could hear gurgling and clanking as Minnie opened valves, drained the tanks and rinsed them again, then dumped them once again.A high pitched ¡°Ewww¡± came from the utility room, he laughed, sometimes the tank could blow back a little bit when the valve was mostly closed.They would have go and flush all the heads to make sure there was no back pressure, that would not be fun.¡°You all right, get any on you?¡±, he called.¡°Lucky me, no.¡±, she shouted back, ¡°Next time you do this, I¡¯ll hang the nice clean laundry.¡±.Naomi came in the hold, carrying yet another basket.¡°Did I hear right, she got sprayed doing the tanks, cause that¡¯s yuck.¡±.¡°Nah, she said nearly, she¡¯s quick and little, so it was all right.¡±, Will said.Together they hung the last two baskets, first in the main hold, then in the second, then carried the sheets to be ironed.It looked like a lot of work but ironing sheets was the easiest thing.Same with pillow cases, couple of swishs, fold and done.Towels and kitchen linens were just folded, along with their clothes.The mat¨¦riels used were very sturdy and long lasting, not like the cheap mass produced junk from his previous life.Most of his wardrobe, summer and winter, and his footwear were all bespoke, same with all the clothes he had stored in a storeroom.Now if he suddenly gained weight, that would be a problem.¡°Don¡¯t see that happening anytime soon¡±, he grumbled under his breath.


    ¡°Don¡¯t see what not happening?¡±, Minnie asked, when she entered the mess, her flushing task all done with.Oh right, he thought, good ears on that one.¡°Just thinking out loud, about gaining weight and how that would mess up my clothes.¡±, he replied.¡°Oh yeah, that Darren guy would be upset, then maybe not, he¡¯d have to make more.¡±, Naomi said.Minnie laughed, ¡°I liked him, when we get to Newton I¡¯m gonna see him for more shorts, and maybe pyjamas with feet, I like them the best.¡±.The irons had heated up on the galley stoves so Will cleared one of the big tables off, threw a thick blanket over it, and started ironing the clean sheets. As he worked away he was whistling, like he did sometimes when stressed a bit, or working at a task like this.Half remembered pop tunes, game music, classics, just whatever popped in to his mind.As he burbled away, Minnie or Naomi would ask what the music was, where it was from.It sure made the time pass quickly, talking about Elvis or what a video game was, then what a television was.Somethings were nearly impossible to describe like what binge watching was, having food delivered boggled Naomi but Minnie sure loved the idea of a drive through.


    ¡°You mean someone would cook for me then bring it to me?¡±, Naomi asked, ¡°And I would ride up on a horse and people give me food too, that¡¯s wonderful, but what do I do with the dishes, and where do I eat it.¡±, Minnie added.¡°Actually you drive up in cars, remember I told you about those.¡±, Will said, ¡°and you get paper or foam plates and you take it home or eat in your car.¡±.Now that he said it, that sounded kind of awful.Much nicer to sit down at a nice tea house, or just eat at home.Again, just a different world but he was sure glad to be here.As they chatted about food, cars, what TV shows were and why he liked them so much, the sheets and other things were finished off.This had taken all of the afternoon and into the early evening, just in time to go out on deck.Dressed for the weather they had their fishing rods at the ready.Will was optimistic about catching fish for dinner.They were cowering in the lee of the wind so it wasn¡¯t too bad and their luck was good,in fifteen minutes Naomi had caught two fine fat floaters, Minnie one long fellow, but Will had nothing.¡°You guys scared the fish away by talking.¡±, he said.¡°Right dad, you were the one yammering on about something called Buffy, how it was amazing and blah blah blah.¡± Minnie pointed out.¡°Well it was.¡±, Will said as they went below with their fresh caught dinner.

 Reloaded

    Chapter 27. Reloaded


    After a mostly relaxing evening, no laundry at least, it was an early night to get ready for the work day tomorrow.No weird dreams, just a long restful night.The next morning dawned cold and clear, with just little bit of snow accumulated over night.From the look of the clouds that wasn¡¯t going to last so it was an early start often breakfast.¡°Hooray for oatmeal.¡±, Minnie said, looking at it drip slowly off her spoon.¡°I love oatmeal.¡±, Will said, shovelling it in.Fresh mug of tea at his elbow, it was a wonderful meal.Naomi was picking at hers a bit listlessly, Will had fried ham to go along with the oats but that was long gone.It tended to go first and fast, Will had skipped it today.To be honest with himself, he wasn¡¯t all that fond of ham.It was good, tasty, far superior to the mass produced version of his world, but it was still ham.In a sandwich it was good, fried was good, but in the order of dinner entrees it was about middle of his list.Minnie however loved it, Naomi had grown up eating ham, so he would cook and eat ham all day to keep them happy.


    Will readied the boats while Minnie and Naomi got the shovels, bags and other equipment together.Loading it on a skid, then hauled to the deck.A tent, small wood stove, folding chairs and a lunch basket of goodies were all brought along, it would be nice to have a break spot.The night before he had taken advantage of their empty coal bunkers to sweep and mop them out.Coal dust was very dangerous, building up in the lungs of miners.Their situation was different though.Coal was just lying on the surface, only being worn down by weather and time.While they or the young work crews were gathering and loading that deadly dust wasn¡¯t released.


    Dressed for warmth and work they all piled in to the dory, folder in tow with the supplies.¡°No race this time huh dad?¡±, Minnie said sadly.Will reached and patted her shoulder, ¡°That will be soon enough, when we¡¯re loaded it¡¯s full speed to Newton.We¡¯ve got a hold of furs to trade and I think they¡¯ll want them, maybe save half for Laketown though.¡±.¡°Newton might want a coal run too.¡± Naomi added, ¡°They sure need a lot.¡±.Will had a thought ¡°I know they had a tough time, between Magnus and us, but how did they manage?We bring hundreds of tons at a time, they couldn¡¯t have picked that much off of the shores, could they?¡±. Minnie shrugged but Naomi had a bit of an answer.¡°In Laketown we have the same problem, there¡¯s some coal to be found, far up the shore.Nearly to the impassable areas.It doesn¡¯t supply much, takes a lot of time and work to get to it though.¡±.¡°You get enough to get by?¡±, Will asked, ¡°Most of the time.It¡¯s not used for heating by most folks, it doesn¡¯t get as cold as it does in Newton or up here.¡±.Minnie snorted ¡°Nowhere gets as cold as it does where we are, I don¡¯t hate it, but I like to be warmer.¡±.


    Rowing slowly through the icy water, to the visible coal, Minnie suddenly asked ¡°Hey dad, do whales live in the cold, or do they hate it like the sharps?¡±.¡°They can live just about anywhere, their blubber keeps them safe, why?¡± Will answered.Minnie pointed ¡°Cause there¡¯s a few over there, and I¡¯m pretty sure they¡¯re watching us.¡±.Sure enough, in the direction she pointed, was a pod of ten or so.Minnie was waving and shouting ¡°Hellooo, remember me, woohooo!¡±.Naomi was a bit more cautious, ¡°I know you said they won¡¯t attack, but they¡¯re pretty close.¡±.Will sped up a bit ¡°We should be okay, whales are good guys.¡±.After a couple more minutes the boats made shore.They jumped out and unloaded.First order of business was to pitch a tent, not a teensy pup tent but a solid canvas wall trapper style, complete with chimney.They put all the supplies inside, Minnie and Naomi chopped some deadfall to kindling and started lit the stove.Will got to filling bags with coal.It was the good stuff.


    As he dug and filled, joined by the other two after a while, he marvelled at how easy it had become.In his previous life he had always thought that digging of any kind was the hardest manual job there was.He had done quite a few tasks involving levelling a yard or putting in a decorative pond and it was the labor that was the toughest.Now the only problem he had was being careful not to overload the coal bags.They could handle about forty pounds, being half filled, filled to the brim they weighed about a hundred but the handles snapped off.So, after a bit of an oops, there were twenty bags in the dory already, ready to take back to the Rose.¡°Do you think every captain and crew were like us, strong and tough I mean.¡±, Minnie asked.Will looked at Naomi, who shrugged.¡°Last time I saw Magnus I was a little girl, too young to go on a run.Regina never mentioned anything but we didn¡¯t really talk about him.¡±.After another few minutes they were out of bags, Min and Naomi took a break in the now warm tent, Will rowed the ore to the Rose.Lowering the bags down then carefully emptying them into the bunkers and finally spraying them down to stop the dust.He also filled the boiler room bunkers and turned it to low, just enough to provide warm water for the radiators.Back up and off to the shore again.By the time he returned the kettle had boiled and the tea was strong and ready.Minnie still stuck with warmed apple juice, but watered down a bit because ¡°It makes me sticky on the inside.¡±.After thirty minutes or so break time was over so they got back to it, exiting the tent to find it snowing heavily.They hadn¡¯t been able to tell from inside but already three inches had accumulated.Will looked at the sky, ¡°That¡¯s a lot of snow in a short time, this is going to be a real dumper.¡±.


    They worked until all the bags were full again and ferried off to the Rose, this time by Naomi and Minnie.It was an odd feeling for Will to see the dory leave without him, staring out to where the boat sat peacefully on the water.It was just a few minutes until they headed back, he could hear laughter coming this way.As he waited it occurred to him that he was probably the first person to ever set foot here.His footsteps left over from loading the boat were nearly covered, it really was coming down now.As he turned back to where the boat was pulled onto the shore he had an epiphany.The scene before him, a snow covered tent with a puffing chimney, the trees behind, to the side was the icy beach, waves washing onto the ice with a soft roar.Close by the shore, out in the water the Rose bobbed at anchor, completing the picture.For that was what this was, a perfect picture of his life.Purpose, love, compassion, imagination, he really had no words.


    As a snowball hit him on the back of his head, he found he did have a few words.Turning he caught Minnie and Naomi in the act of throwing another, they dropped the snow and looked out to sea.¡°Hey did you see that whale dad, it had arms.¡±, Minnie called.¡°It sure did,¡±, Naomi added, ¡°Hit you with a snowball.¡±.Creepy, Will thought, ¡°Well let¡¯s keep eye eye out while we finish up,couple more boats should keep us going for a thousand leagues at least.Working away, Minnie seemed to have a thought, ¡°Hey dad, if you weren¡¯t the captain, what would you be doing here, like a job?¡±.Now that was a question.¡°There¡¯s lots to think about sweetie, I was given the chance to come for a new life, do you think we could do something else?¡±, he asked.¡°Nah, just wondering while we work, me and Naomi were yapping about it, she said it would be fun to be a hunter, I said being a painter, what about you?¡±.¡°I¡¯ll be a cook, running a tea shop like Harold and his family, you can help me when your not painting.¡±.He filled a couple of the bags, ¡°I¡¯ll carry your painting supplies around in a little cart, and we¡¯ll go see Naomi and have tea and cakes.¡±.Again all the bags were full, and Will loaded them in the waiting boat.Minnie and Naomi jumped aboard, hegave it a mighty shove and it shot out into to the waters, girls yelling with joy.¡°Again!¡±, Minnie called back.Oddly enough the whales were still floating nearby, just keeping an eye on the crew.He walked back to the tent, there was at least six inches on the roof now, he went inside and knocked sharply on the canvas roof to shake the snow off.Poured a fresh cuppa and sat in the warmth of the little stove until he hear voices coming close.He threw open the door and ¡°Welcome to my tea shop, who¡¯s ready for a cuppa.¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°Ew no.¡±. If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    As they had a warmup he asked about levels in the main bunker, Naomi to,d him it was at three quarters.¡°One more big boatload ought to do it then.¡±, Will said, ¡°Then we¡¯re southbound.¡±.Packing up the tent, stove and all the other accessories they had brought did not take long.As Will loaded that gear into the small boat Minnie and Naomi packed bags with wet coal. Wet with snow.At times they had to brush away the drifts to get to the stuff they needed.It was about an hour and everything was ready to go back to the Rose.As the boats were pushed off from shore the whales drifted a bit closer, curiously watching them as they rowed along.Tying the bags to the starboard crane and winching them up and over to the open hold right away took a few minutes.Boats lifted aboard and secured, Will was in the wheelhouse with Minnie and Naomi, plotting their course.


    ¡°It took us three weeks to get up this far north, so yeah¡­three weeks back too.¡±, he calculated out loud.¡°If we go too fast we burn too much.¡±, Minnie added, ¡°Gotta stay in that zone place.¡±.¡°How are we on supplies ?¡±, he asked Naomi.She got a distant look as she worked things out.¡°Good on potatoes and carrots, oatmeal, spices are low but okay, four days meals of bacon, five big hams, thirty pounds of sausages, lots of preserved fruit and vegetables in jars, three and a half of those big cheese wheels, enough flour to make lots of bread.Five barrels of water and lots of apple juice still.We¡¯ll be fine.¡±.Will was a bit relieved, but then she went on ¡°Not much coffee left and we¡¯re out of tea.¡±.He snapped his head and looked at her, a stricken look on his face.With a tremulous tone he said ¡°Really, out of tea?¡±.¡°Nah, just kidding, we have lots.¡±, she laughed.Minnie patted him on the shoulder ¡°Poor old guy.¡±.


    Every detail worked out, the plan was to lift anchor and steam south for a few hours, maybe get out of this snowstorm.Anchor for the night, and so on for the next while.It would be a long trip til they got back to Newton but there was fishing for dinner and always the option of going ashore and hunting.¡°Really?¡±, Minnie squeaked, ¡°We really gonna this time?¡±.¡°You bet, we got sidetracked with the burrowers, hmmm, but yeah, and we need a Christmas tree too, to put up in the mess hall.¡± Will replied.With those few words Minnie seemed to start vibrating with excitement, ¡°Eeek!¡±.¡°Already? I thought that was in, what did you call it again, Duckender?¡±, Naomi asked.Will laughed ¡°Its December, and I think it¡¯s pretty close.Hard to tell though, I lost track of a few days here and there, but we¡¯re just going to call it good enough.¡±.Minnie had calmed down a bit and had a million questions as usual, ¡°Where¡¯s the tree going, how big is it, what do we put on it, do I have to make presents or just get them, do we, have we, can we¡­ ahhh my brains gonna pop.¡±.Will gathered his little friend into a hug, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll work it all out and have a great time.¡±.


    Soon the boiler was set to full, the deck was given a final check, Will slogged through the snow to do that, the anchors were cranked up and Minnie pushed the throttle to half.Standing on the bow he felt the engine come alive beneath his feet and felt the boat start.Slowly at first then picking up speed, moving gracefully over the slowly heaving lake.¡°Can I still call it a lake?¡±, Will wondered aloud.They were well away from shore, on course south and Naomi and Minnie joined him.¡°What did you say a minute ago, I nearly heard but the wind ate it.¡±, Minnie asked.Shaking his head at the way she said it, ¡°I was just saying I don¡¯t think this is a lake, it¡¯s an ocean, more like ¡®the ocean¡¯.¡±.¡° But we always called it the lake, I¡¯m from Laketown.¡±, Naomi said. ¡°Why do you think it¡¯s not a lake dad, these guys, all the guys call it that, except the diggers but they were kind of...¡±.Naomi quickly reached out and covered Minnie¡¯s mouth.¡°Be nice, they¡¯re not dumb¡±, she said.¡°I was being nice, I didn¡¯t call them dumb, I was gonna say sheltered.¡±.Naomi just looked at her and nodded slowly.Will got them back on track with,¡°I think it¡¯s just always been called that because no one has seen how huge it is out here, never ending.Like we have.¡±, he went on.¡°It doesn¡¯t really matter, what it is or what we call it though.You guys know me, I just like to get things straight in my head.¡±.The other two just glanced at him, then each other, yup they knew.


    With the speed of the boat, and spray being thrown up, it was time to get inside.Being cold was okay, but wet and cold was no fun, dangerous in fact. Minnie and Will retired to the wheelhouse, Naomi below decks.The course was set according to the trip north, they knew by sticking to it there would be no problems.As the miles went by the snow had slowed then stopped entirely.Afternoon was gone and the light was fading fast.Minnie steering them closer to shore, the usual 50 yards give and take, then prepared to anchor in a bit of a shallow harbour.Fairly protected from the main water by a spit of land pointing out to the lake.As was becoming usual for this coast, the anchors only dropped fifty feet before digging in, with a good long stay to them.Again the Rose shifted and twisted until she was in a ¡®comfortable¡¯ position.Will always smiled when he felt and saw the ship do this.


    The cold became a bit much, going below was a relief.The familiar smells greeted him, tea, bacon, fresh bread, a tinge of coal, all of these blended together.If I smell this much, he thought, what does Minnie pick up?Making a mental note to ask her, he stripped off his outer gear and carefully hung it to dry and warm up.Then a quick visit to the head, a change of clothes and off to the mess.He was wearing a long grey robe, belted in the middle and it even had a hood to keep out drafts.Very comfortable indeed.He found Minnie playing her penny whistle at their table, Naomi was singing in the galley, Galway Girl As he entered he joined in the chorus with a loud ¡°Her hair was black and her eyes were blue!¡±.That made Minnie jump back with a squeal from her whistle and squeak from her.¡°Holy moley dad, are you trying to scare me half to death?¡±, she gasped.Naomi stuck her head out and laughed at her, ¡°You big baby, I saw him coming a mile away.¡±.Minnie¡¯s response was to jump at the other girl and start tickling her mercilessly.¡°Ack, ahahah, get off, help help, oh Min I¡¯m gonna get you so bad later.¡±, Naomi cried.


    After a few minutes things settled enough for Will to ask ¡°You got dinner planned?¡±, he always asked.This was Naomi¡¯s domain, she had made that quite clear in the past.¡°Beyond some bread baked, nope, no ideas yet.¡±m she replied.¡°Hey, how do you feel about hamburgers, or cheeseburgersand baked potatoes, it¡¯s my turn to cook anyways.¡± Will said.Minnie smiled happily ¡°Oh yeah, I love burgers.¡±.He looked at Naomi who was nodding just as eagerly, ¡°Right, I¡¯m on it, can you guys play again, it was pretty wonderful you know.¡±.He started grinding and mixing salt pork into burger patty¡¯s, prepping potatoes then popping them onto the oven to cook.As he worked all the music that Naomi knew, music that he had brought over, songs from all the artists and groups he had loved for years, they drifted through the boat.Minnie and Naomi taking turns playing and singing, their dear voices bringing joy.

 Scooting South

    Chapter 28. Scooting South


    Their days were much alike over the next week.Sailing south during the day, resting and relaxing in the evening.Several things stuck out, from the routine.One of these was the day they went hunting, for both fresh meat and a Christmas tree.Early in the morning the three of them loaded into the dory, along with the table and chairs, stove and a few supplies.Rowing to the shore, and setting up only took a short while, they were quite experienced now.Will and Naomi put up the tent, Minnie scavenged for wood.She had tried her best with the tent but height was an issue, she could do it but became quite frustrated.Poles, pegs and canvas had been hurled, and with her strength, they had gone quite a distance. After that, Will suggested bringing a stepladder or perhaps stilts.He had to explain what they were but she was intrigued to say the least.¡°People wear those where you come from, everyone or just the smaller people like Minnie.¡±, Naomi asked. ¡°No one but street performers wear them, maybe drywall installers too, they¡¯re pretty dangerous if you fall off.And you will fall off, everybody does at first.¡± he answered.¡°Never mind then, they sound fun but awful.¡±, Minnie said.¡°What¡¯s drywall?¡±, Naomi asked.


    So she was finding wood, dragging a half buried log out of the snow and chopping off a few sections, then splitting that into kindling.Easy stuff for her.All loaded into a small sled dragging along behind.The tent wasn¡¯t very far away and it only took a few minutes to get back and start the wood stove heating the tent.Chimney puffing smoke they tied the canvas shut, readied their bows and off they went.It was quite cold, snow coming down and windy as heck.They were warm enough in their winter gear and for a while the only sound was their feet crunching across the frozen ground and puffs of breath.The plan was to circle around their camp looking for game, heading back now and then to warm up if needed.Unfortunately it seemed as though it was too cold for any kind of hunting, there were no signs of life at all.¡°Well that¡¯s just fine, no hunting for us today, it¡¯s been hours and hours and nothing, all I shot was a stupid tree, I¡¯m cold and hungry and I want to go home and sit in my chair and sulk.¡±, Minnie was not too happy with todays events.Will patted her shoulder, ¡°Hey we still have one more thing to get you know, maybe there¡¯s no rabbits around but there¡¯s lots of trees to choose from.¡±.Oh yeaaaaah, come on Naomi let¡¯s find the perfect one.¡±, and just like that she was in a better mood.


    Together they wandered through the trees around the warm tent, to Will they all looked okay, but he was experienced enough to know there was only one right tree.¡°Minnie, that¡¯s way too big to get on board, it¡¯s fifteen feet tall.¡±, Naomi called.¡°Well the one you liked was tiny, even I could see over it.¡±, Minnie shouted back.¡°It was perfect.¡±, was the answer.This one was too wide, that was was too green(?), too many branches or not enough, too skinny, too weird, too much bird poop, there was quite a choice.Will eventually went to sit in the open door of the tent on a folding chair, the heat from the wood stove was more than enough to keep him warm while he waited.Plus a nice fresh pot of tea, passed the time quite nicely, listening to the happy voices discussing this one or that one.Finally a decision had been made, he was called over to a spot a couple of hundred feet from his warm roost to bask in the wonder of their perfect tree.


    The snow had been tramped down around the base of the tree and most of the snow was gone from the branch¡¯s. Minnie and Naomi looked at the tree fondly and he knew this was the one.Pulling a small axe from his belt, ¡°Who¡¯s gonna chop it down, we¡¯ll take turns year to year, but someone going to start.¡±.To his surprise Minnie took the axe and handed it to Naomi, ¡°You go first.¡±.The young girl hugged her, then knelt at the base and, with a few strong blows, took the tree down easily.Will carefully tied the branches, bound the whole tree up and swung it onto his shoulder.As they walked back Minnie had a many questions.¡°Are we going to decorate it right away, and with what, we don¡¯t have those ornaments you told me about, and where are we going to put it, if the youngsters come aboard to do a coal trip then they will mess with it.¡±.Will had thought the same thing.As they packed up their temporary camp, walking back to the boat he had n idea.


    ¡°We have a couple of spare rooms right?Extra cabins for visitors and so on.Let¡¯s redecorate one to use as a crew room.Where it can be just us, have our meals when we¡¯re alone, play our games and music.¡±, he said, as the rowed back to the Rose.Naomi thought this was a great idea, ¡°Like my aunts parlour, it¡¯s just for her and uncle, no littles allowed, no visitors.Their private room.¡±.Minnie loved the idea too and wanted to start working right away, and if he was being honest, Will did too.They were anchored for the night anyway, it was still early.As they unloaded everything from the dory into one of the holds, Naomi remarked it was odd that they hadn¡¯t seen any sign of rabbits.¡°Might be too cold, or we were too late in the day.¡±, Will remarked.¡°Maybe the bears ate them all, or the wolves.¡±, Minnie said with a shiver, the thought of wolves and bears, oh my.She could just imagine a line of them at the shore, just waiting for her to come back, holding knives and forks, some with salt and pepper.She said that to Will, who laughed, ¡°I¡¯ll protect you but after seeing you fighting sharps last week, I think it¡¯s the wolves and bears that have nightmares of you.¡±.


    A final check on deck, to make sure the anchors were holding tight, hoisting the dory to her davits.Then below to warm up and have a bite before doing some rearranging.They did have a lot of room and much was unused most of the time.The two temporary crew rooms were flanked by smaller cabins, with the main cabin at the end of the corridor, the mess and galley at the other end.Naomi had claimed a cabin by Will and Minnie¡¯s, leaving three others mostly unused.There¡¯s were beds, dressers, trunks, couple of wardrobes, all had portholes and vents.After checking each out it was decided to take the one opposite to Naomi¡¯s as a crew lounge.¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to use it as a, I don¡¯t know the words, an overflow room for your stuff, like a sitting room or reading room.¡±, Will asked for the second time.She laughed, ¡°it¡¯s fine dad, I¡¯m comfortable in my room, it¡¯s just for sleeping and clothes and stuff.The lounge will be where we can spread out a bit.¡±.Will looked at Minnie, ¡°and you¡¯re okay where you are, with me?¡±.¡°Well duh, of course I live with you, always.¡±, she answered.Resting his hand on her shoulder, ¡°Well let¡¯s get to work then.¡±.


    Will knew they had changed since arriving in this world.Fighting sharps, loading coal and ore, but nothing brought it home as much as seeing diminutive Minnie easily lift a six foot, solid wood dresser and walk out of the room. Moving furniture around, altering the layout of their house had been one of his wife¡¯s passions.Between changing the house for Christmas, then for summer, or again for no particular reason.She just liked it, so apparently did Minnie.Her and Naomi were happily moving chairs, bookshelves, end tables, all with an eye for where the Christmas tree would go.Already the slightly austere room had been converted to a cosy sitting area, not that it had been plain to begin with.The warm wooden walls contrasted with the darker floor, all with the same wonderfuldetail that had been taken all over the boat.Minnie had fallen in love with those the minute she had been able to notice them.It seemed she had taken some of her drawing style from the shipbuilders.Instead of the tiny gnomes, animals and fish that gambolled and played on the wainscoting and baseboards of the entire ship, she drew tiny Minnie¡¯s on all her work.


    While the other two organized and arranged Will had poked around in various storerooms until he had found a couple of throw rugs and several decorative pillows, oddly enough they were all embroidered with different colours and types of roses.There were some paintings, mostly portraits of rather forbidding looking people.Some very faded water colours of landscapes, beautifully done, Will decided against any of them.Preferring to wait until Minnie wanted to hang her creations.When he returned with his treasures he found that Minnie had finally been able to settle, and that Naomi had finally been able to concede on some issues.The tree was in the corner of the room, with room on either side.Low bookcases lined one wall, with a wide shelf about halfway up, nearly like a mantelpiece without the fireplace below.Three armchairs, one from each of the empty bedrooms had been set close to each other with a small tables between.A couple of tasseled hassocks were set near for longer legged people, one prominent to the middle chair.¡°For you dad,when your resting your eyes after dinner.¡± Naomi said.A triple mantle oil lamp hung securely on the ceiling, chained in three places to prevent damage by inclement weather, throwing plenty of light.A box on the mantel held candles and a box of matches, and chamber sticks to light the way to bed.There was no head in this room, or the others for some reason, which was probably why Naomi hadn¡¯t chosen them.It was just some quirk, design flaw, something that just was.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    All said and done, the three flopped into their chairs.¡°This is great, we did a fine job.¡±, Will said fondly.He noticed that the little ones were drifting a bit, after sitting for a few minutes, the warm quiet room was very comfortable.They had worked hard, so he drew a light throw blanket over each of them and went to the galley to start their evening meal.Tonight was a mixture of things.He opened a jar of their own salt beef and started that boiling in fresh water, while cutting potatoes for mash and carrots to add to the beef.After changing the water he cut the now much less salty beef into cubes and fried it quickly for a nice crust, then added the carrots.All to sizzle and simmer together, while the potatoes boiled away.While he cooked he contemplated if they should build some tv tables, so they could eat in the lounge rather than the mess.At least some times anyway.He had talked about what tv was but he was sure they didn¡¯t really get it, and that was just fine.It wasn¡¯t a concern and probably never would be, this was truly a different world.Some similarities but some fundamental differences.As he stood thinking these deep thoughts he didn¡¯t notice a stealthy figure enter the galley, slinking in the shadows, quiet as a hunting wolf.He set his spatula down carefully, it was his favourite after all and was scared witless when Minnie leapt at him yelling ¡°Oogie boogie!¡±, at her high pitched loudest.


    ¡°Ahaha, you screamed like a little, I got you so good, screamy screamy.¡±, she laughed.Just a few minutes later she was sitting on the counter beside him, eating a raw carrot.¡°Well yes, but I screamed in a manlyfashion.¡±, Will said defensively.¡°I dunno, it was pretty screamy.¡±, Naomi added from the doorway, ¡°Woke me up, I though Minnie saw a spider again.¡±.Minnie shuddered, ¡°They¡¯re just so leggy, what¡¯re you scared of Naomi?¡±.The young girl laughed, ¡°I¡¯m not going to tell you, sorry but no way, you would probably put them in my bed.¡±.¡°Put what in your bed?¡±, Will asked innocently. She gave him a look.He was back to tending to their dinner, nearly ready, just bubbling away on the hob.Today they would eat in the mess, this meal was not easily held on laps and spilling a plateful of hot food was not how Will wanted to end this day.It was just a few minutes later, food on the table and devouring.It had been a busy day and would be an early night.Miles to go tomorrow.


    ¡°Where does Laketown get their salt from, is there a mine near, or a shop that uses lake water?¡±, Will asked Naomi.¡°My aunt, well not really, but I call her auntie.The one with the parlour.Her family makes salt from the lake, always have.¡±.He nodded, ¡°I didn''t think there could be a mine, not too close to town anyway.¡±.Another thought hit him, ¡°Who makes the beer, cause it¡¯s very good, and the ales too.¡±.¡°You need some more of that dad, you were moaning about not having any more the other day.¡±, Minnie added.¡°Well it¡¯s a nice drink to have on a hot day, a glass of ale that is.¡± Will said.¡°Have you looked outside lately, it¡¯s not too hot you know.¡±, she answered.¡°A glass of beer is just the thing on a cold night, very refreshing.¡±, Will shot right back.¡°Too bad we don¡¯t have any of that either, and what¡¯s the difference anyway, beer or ale?¡±, she asked.¡°It¡¯s how it¡¯s brewed, the type of malt used.Light for beer and dark for ales, that''s about all I know.¡±.¡°My uncle has a brew house in Laketown, it¡¯s been in his family forever.They supply everyone, especially our tavern.¡±, Naomi said.¡°You have a lot of family huh.¡±, Minnie said.The other girl nodded ¡°Oh yeah, there¡¯s lots of us.More than I can keep track of.¡±.


    As they talkeddinner was finished off and Will took care of the cleanup, just listening to the others talk about family.Minnie was so interested in all of Naomi¡¯s aunts and uncles, cousins and second cousins, her sister.When they had started this adventure all they had were each other, but were gaining friends and even a bit of family as time went on.After dishes and such were done, a fresh pot of tea in hand, Will sat in his easy chair in their new lounge.¡°Have you ever written out your family tree Naomi?¡±, Will asked.She had never heard of this before, or maybe not by that term.But after explaining it was clear that it was just not done here.¡°My wife had made a table cloth, embroidered with all of her family and mine, our kids and grandkids.¡±, he remembered aloud.Minnie was busy writing down the names of all Naomi¡¯s family, there were quite a few.As she remembered this aunt, or this cousin, twice removed, or this remarried uncle.It was going to be a big job, fun though.After an hour of this, Will was dozing off.He stood and stretched, ¡°I¡¯m knackered, I¡¯m going to check up top one last time, then to bed.¡±. Minnie and Naomi still had their heads together, and started a bit when he spoke.¡°Do you need a hand, I¡¯ll come if you want?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Nah, stay warm sweetie.¡±, he answered.


    Being very experienced at dressing in winter gear, it only took a few minutes now.Heading up the stairs he could feel it was very cold now.Climbing on deck he saw the familiar deck was quite iced over, the temperature had dropped since their shore trip.They had taken to leaving a bucket of sand inside the stair shed, but it had frozen to a solid block.Walking carefully because of the sheer ice, he managed to get to the rail and looked over.Finding it was still water and not ice he was relieved.There was a good heave to the lake that would stop ice forming, even though it was easily cold enough.¡°Have to have an early start tomorrow.¡±, he muttered.Clinging to the rail he walked the entire boat and found all was secure.Standing at the bow of his floating home he gave that mental switch a twist and found the familiar screen floating in front of his eyes.


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 35/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 47/50


    Stamina 46/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Navigation 4


    Mechanic 3


    Mason 1


    Outdoor Chef 2


    Line Cook


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Lumberjack


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 7, has been adjusted now.Menu will show age as 17 in next update.


    Intelligence 20/25


    Strength 23/25


    Vitality 23/25


    Stamina 23/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Navigator 3


    Artist


    Piloting 3


    Mechanic 3


    Crab Catcher


    Shrimper


    Tinker


    Joker


    Arborist


    Labourer 1


    Lumberjack


    The skill sailor has been changed to Able Seaman,also the titleWatch Stander and Dayworker have been achieved.


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 35/50


    Strength 35/50


    Vitality 36/50


    Stamina 40/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Management 3


    Kitchen Artist


    Cooking 4


    Homemaker 3


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Piloting


    Lumberjack


    The skill probationary sailor has been changed to Able Seaman, also the title Watch Stander and Dayworker have been achieved.


    We cut down one tree and we¡¯re lumberjacks, he thought, the menu system is weird.Nice for Minnie and Naomi though, I¡¯ll have to let them know to check.


    Message received, use More command to check.


    ¡°Well, what the¡­?¡±.

 And So We Go

    Chapter 29.And So We Go


    Will decided to mull over his notification for a while, he had no idea what it could mean.He had never had a message through the system before, it was concerning.All this was running through his head as he went back down below.When he had first encountered Elaith he was told they would never meet again, maybe that had changed.Taking his time he visited the galley and mess, to check lanterns and the stoves.Then to the lounge where he found Minnie curled up in her chair sleeping, and Naomi wrapped in a blanket in his bigger chair.Firstly he picked up Minnie and carried her to their cabin, sighing he realized he had forgotten the hot water bottles again.That message thing really had him scattered.It didn¡¯t take long to fill the cold bottles with nice hot water from the stove jackets, and then tuck one to Minnie¡¯s icy feet.Then quietly into the lounge again and gently woke Naomi, guided her stumbling form to her quarters and handed her a nice hot bottle too.¡°Night dad¡±, she mumbled into his shirt as she hugged him and closed the door behind.Minnie greeted him with a snuffling snore as he entered and prepared for bed.It didn¡¯t take but a minute as he slid in the cool sheets, finding the warm part by his feet was a true pleasure.Laying his head on his pillow the message was still stuck in his head, I¡¯ll check it in the morning he decided, with Minnie.That decided he reached for Mins hand, she held tight and he sunk into sleep.


    Next thing he knew there was knocking on his cabin door, ¡°Are you guys awake?¡±, Naomi called.¡°We are now!¡± griped Minnie who had been jarred awake, she scampered to the door and flung it open.Naomi tumbled in, ¡°Did you get a message too, on your menu thing?¡±.Oops, Will thought.Minnie was quiet for a moment¡­¡±Me too.¡±.Will held up his hand ¡°That¡¯s makes three of us, but mine came in last night, you guys were sleeping so I just let it go.¡±.Naomi came in and sat on the bed beside Minnie ¡°I didn¡¯t read mine yet, and why is your bed softer and fluffier than mine?¡±.¡°Cause dads large and it gets tenderized, like a steak.¡± Minnie answered.Will picked up a pillow and chucked it at Minnie, knocking her sideways.¡°Gee, thanks, why don¡¯t we go to the mess, have a cuppa and see what they say?¡±, he suggested.This sounded fine to Naomi who went to dress, Minnie agreed by firing a pillow at Will while he wasn¡¯t looking and nearly launching him into the head.¡°Hah.¡±, she laughed.Then added ¡°Are you worried, cause you look worried.¡±.Will shrugged, ¡°I kind of like the saying ¡®no news is good news¡¯, I don¡¯t like surprises much.¡±.They got dressed in work clothes and tidied the cabin. Realizing he was putting thing¡¯s off for no good reason, Will finished up headed for the mess.Naomi had lit the stove and made coffee today, warmed juice and started ham and potatoes together for a breakfast hash.Minnie came in as Will sat with a coffee, very stylish in her work overalls.¡°Okay, let¡¯s get to it, who wants to go first? he asked.Minnie and Naomi looked at each other and pointed, towards Will.¡°Fine.¡±, he sighed and clicked Menu in his mind, then More.


    The usual screens came up, filled with the familiar blue light and information.However this time, the Message Waiting icon was flashing on the top of everything else.He mentally reached out and clicked the box, causing a new window to pop open, containing the message.


    Greetings Captain Will Harris.This is an automated message from the system.Your many skills and abilities have become a long list.When you access Menu in the future these listings will have been condensed down into a more manageable form.Any changes, new abilities or gains to already learned skills or talents will be listed as (new), then incorporated into the new style.


    Have a nice day and enjoy your coffee.


    ¡°Well?¡±, asked two impatient voices.He laughed in relief, ¡°go ahead and check, nothing to fear.¡±.It was quiet for a moment or two.Then a burst of ¡°How does it know I wanted toast today, with my ham even?¡±, from Minnie. And ¡°It knows I like honey in my tea, that¡¯s just creepy.¡±, from Naomi.The fact they were under constant surveillance or just sometimes, was another of those things he would just have to let go.¡°I think it reacts to us at the moments when we check it, if it¡¯s watching us all the time that would be weird right?¡±.


    After checking their messages it was a relieved crew that started on breakfast.¡°What were you thinking, that it could have been bad news?¡±: Naomi asked.¡°Like I told Minnie, I don¡¯t like surprises much.It¡¯s just the way I am.There¡¯s so much I don¡¯t know about the system that you never know.¡± he answered.¡°I thought it might be something like we can breathe underwater, or don¡¯t feel cold, that would be fun.¡± Minnie added.¡°Yeah that would be nice, especially the cold part.¡±, Naomi laughed.¡°Not to sound old or anything but just getting something without working for it devalues what you get.Can¡¯t be like bingo, you¡¯re a wizard, takes work and time.¡± Will said.Minnie looked at him ¡°Whats a bingo?¡±.¡°Just a slang word for when something happens fast, suddenly.Bingo the dishes are done, or bingo we¡¯re at Laketown.¡±, he explained.The other two nodded, understanding a bit, ¡°Or a fun game, used to play all the time before.¡± he added.The word game got the others interest right away.Not that their life was boring, it truly wasn¡¯t.There was always lots of work to do aboard ship, they fished,had sing alongs, played cards, reading but a new game was always welcome.It took a while to explain the concept of bingo and how random it could be, what to play for.Just to win, or for treasure of some kind.Chores, or sleeping in time.There was lots to work out, prepare and to remember.Numbered balls, something to roll them in, cards to make and tokens to play with.It wouldn¡¯t be done today, but soon.Another on Wills to-do list.


    Their meal didn¡¯t need to be hurried but it did end, there were miles to make today, to get back to the warm lands.Will took care of the boiler and loading coal into the feeders.Naomi squared away her galley and mess hall.It was Minnie¡¯s turn to do a load or two of laundry and tidy the cabin.She was quite vocal about her dislike for this chore, but still did it.Her and Wills cabin was fairly large but sometimes the floor was covered with Minnie sized clothing, it was a mystery to her how it happened too.¡°Do you chuck my clothes around dad, dad¡­hey you, anyone hear me complaining?That¡¯s no fun then, hey Naomi, Naomi¡­NAAAOOOMMMI!¡±.The young girl came flying into the room, ¡°What, are you okay?¡±.¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine,¡± Minnie answered, ¡°Just wanted to know if anyone heard me, dads gone deaf I think.¡±.Naomi laughed ¡°He¡¯s one deck down in the engine room, oiling stuff.¡±.¡°Oh right, can be pretty noisy, with the shaft disengaged from the propulsion unit, it¡¯s easier to add lubricants to the needed fittings without the boat under weigh, and no load on the main drive.¡±, Minnie said.Naomi was just looking at her, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, I know stuff too.¡±, Min complained.With a shared giggle they got back to it.


    Will had finished up his oilings and had reseated the propeller shaft.It only had to be done every few hundred miles, but was quite important and couldn''t really be postponed. It would have been more difficult if he hadn¡¯t been able to hold the three hundred pound shaft up with one hand, while using a grease gun in the other.The other thing he had to check was the stuffing box.Where the propeller shaft passes through the hull in the stern tube, to connect with the engine.The stuffing box was filled with oakum seals and wax, to prevent water from leaking into the boat and keeping the shaft cooled with water.A complex system and very important to keep an eye on. Periodically it needed to be tightened to keep a tight seal, but not too tight or the shaft would bind.At times like this Will wished someone would hurry up and invent vulcanized rubber.Life would be much easier.Then, remembering they were going to go as far south as they could go, realized they could maybe be the one to develop this much needed product.¡°We¡¯ll see I guess,¡± he muttered, packing his tools away. The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    His last stop was to crank the boiler to high and let it start building pressure.Minnie had finished the laundry, with Naomi¡¯s help, and they were both dressing in the warm gear to brave the top deck.¡°There¡¯s timing for you.¡±, Will laughed as they met at the stairs. He nearly went to fist bump, but realized that explanation could take a while, so he went for a high-five instead.¡°Why are you standing with your hand up?¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°Haven¡¯t we done this before?¡±, he asked.¡°Gotten dressed in our winter gear?¡± Naomi asked, with a very confused look.¡°No, I thought we have high fived before, you know, we slap hands up high, then down low, go team go¡­ we did this, I¡¯m sure of it.¡± Will answered, trailing off.¡°You¡¯ll have to tell us all about it dad.¡±, Minnie encouraged.¡°Well,¡± he started but was interrupted by a boom from outside.Then another, even louder.Half dressed all three of them ran up the stairs, expecting anything.More monster sharps, sea serpents, logjams, you name it.Standing on the deck it was snowing hard, windy and felt like a cold front was on its way.Another boom rattled the windows of the wheelhouse, and Will realized what it was.


    ¡°Thunder snow¡±, he said ¡°Instead of heavy rain it¡¯s heavy snow, doesn¡¯t happen too often.¡±.Minnie was unsettled by this, thunder supposed to be a summer thing, and said so ¡°Well that¡¯s just wrong, let¡¯s pull anchor and get going.¡±.Will agreed, it was weird.He and Naomi went to the bow and started cranking in the anchors, again one was easy but the port was stuck tight.There was a bit of back and forth before it finally popped out of whatever crevice it had been stuck in.¡°Okay.¡± Will shouted, ¡°Let¡¯s get going.¡±.Minnie had heard him and the vibration of the engine started and they slowly headed back out to open water.Gaining speed in a wide turn on a southerly heading.The lake was beginning to get rougher, higher seas but the Rose handled them well.Naomi tugged on his arm and pointed to the wheelhouse ¡°Tea time okay?¡±.He nodded and together they clambered up the stairs and clattered their way inside.The thunderstorm had worsened in the short time they had been moving but it was more to the north.¡°We¡¯ll outrun it in a short time, I think it¡¯s heading to land anyway.¡± Will said as he put the kettle on.¡°Later, maybe we¡¯ll drop a line or two for fish for dinner.I feel like a fish.¡±, Naomi said.Well that was too easy for Minnie, who began to make fishy faces at her.Will had to join in with a joke ¡°Hey Minnie, what do sea monsters eat?¡±.She shook her head ¡°Fish and ships.¡± he went on.¡°Oh that¡¯s a good one dad.¡±. ¡°Any more?¡±, asked Naomi.Hmmm, that made him think.He knew lots of jokes, but most made references to things these two would never know. ¡°I¡¯ll work on it.¡±.


    The day waned on, miles behind them, many more to go before they were in familiar waters.Food was not exactly short but they were low on most things. Actually out of bacon, which really made Minnie¡¯s day.The last slab was lifted out of the fragrant but mostly empty larder, a sad event.There were a couple of hams left, smoked sausage strings hanging.A few big jars of salt pork and salt beef.That was the entirety of what had been stuffed to the top with Laketowns finest.¡°We¡¯ll fill it again, and soon.Dropping anchor in Newton in a week or so , fresh milk and eggs.Steak, ribs, pork chops, ah can¡¯t wait..¡± Will said as they stood in the larder doorway.¡°Fish for dinner though, unless it¡¯s too stormy to cast, right dad.¡±, Minnie asked hopefully.She loved fishing.¡°Yeah, fish and ships for us, cause we¡¯re sea monsters.¡± with that Naomi leaped at Minnie, tickling her ribs mercilessly.¡°Arrrggghhh, dad help me, not fair, I wasn¡¯t ready, get off me, heeeellllppp.¡±, screamed Minnie.She soon was able to squirm away and leaped on Naomi¡¯s back and messed the girls hair up, something she hated most of all.¡°You monster, I hate that, dad get her off, Minnie!¡± it was her turn to scream for help.They hadn¡¯t noticed Will had quietly left when the battle started.


    Their day had ended early as the thunder snow had lasted far longer than Will thought it would.Instead of steaming away from it they had hit the storm dead on, and had been in it for a few hours when they finally called it quits.Anchored in the lee of a small horseshoe shaped island, a few leagues off of the coast.A very snug harbourage indeed, the snow was coming down in sheets but that was the only effect they were feeling.No wind, calm water.¡°We¡¯ll have to shovel like mad tomorrow, but tonight we¡¯re safe and sound .¡±, Will said as Minnie had guided the Rose in.Dropping anchors in thirty feet of water took but a few minutes, then before they went below for the day it was time to see if they could catch dinner.Cold and shivery they lined up at the stern, and cast.And cast.And cast.Time passed as it does when fishing, reeling in, telling stories.There was a bucket and net optimistically waiting, filling with snow.It was cold, but not awful like it had been a few days ago.Their gear could easily keep them warm and dry, but the thick quilted material was beginning to get soaked through, where the leather cladding had a gap.¡°Clotheslines tonight for sure, maybe in the boiler room, warmest room on the boat .¡±, Will remarked as he started to reel in a mighty cast.Naomi and Minnie had given up casting and were bottom fishing and jigging, hoping for a bite.It seemed they had the right idea as both had a bite at the same time.Will pulled his line to the side and reeled in faster.They only needed a couple of fish for dinner anyways.Minnie was pulling her line in fast, Naomi a bit slower, Will readied the net and nabbed Minnie¡¯s catch as soon as it surfaced.Dumping the fish into the bucket he repeated with Naomi¡¯s.¡°Thank goodness.¡±, she shivered out, ¡°I was about ready to quit and have jam toast for dinner .¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°Me too.¡±.


    Will carried the rods and Minnie brought the fish, Naomi came behind and closed the doors nice and tight behind them.It was sure a relief to get out of the heavy coveralls, and wet boots.Yup, Will thought, we need to find rubber trees.We need galoshes, life at sea is pretty hard on leather boots.But that was for another day. He stowed the rods in the store room, after drying, oiling and checking the lines wasn¡¯t tangled.The reels might not be what he was used to, not as lightweight, but they worked well and were very durable.Minnie had brought the boots and wet gear down to the boiler room and he helped her hang the sodden gear to dry.Boots on a mat near the boiler so they would dry slowly as not to crack.Naomi had taken the fish to the galley and then repaired to her cabin to wash up and change.¡°I like my slippers you know, keeps my feet warm, and my long robe stops drafts, so nice and snuggly, maybe I should wear a warm hat too, a long woolly one, but that might mess up my hair, what do you think dad?¡±, Minnie had been nattering on while they worked, but Will was quite used to this and found it endearing.Listening to her squeaky voice going on about the most mundane subjects, sometimes for hours.Debating whether she liked shorts or skirts, onesies or robes, light or dark toast, you name it.¡°Lots of people used to wear nightcaps to keep their heads warm at night.Our home is pretty warm though, we don¡¯t really need it, but it¡¯s a good look.¡±, he answered, ¡°Its up to you.¡±.


    By this time they had made it to their cabin to change as well.Casual clothes for the rest of the day, but as usual Will had hung his spare winter overalls by the deck stairwell, just in case.Yuck winter, he thought, I miss the days when I could just go on deck in shorts and flip flops.¡°Me too.¡±, Minnie said beside him. ¡°Did I say that aloud?¡±, he asked with a start.She laughed at him, ¡°No, I just know that look, kind of disgusted and disappointed at the same time, and then the sigh as you look upwards.¡±.Naomi walked down the corridor behind them, looking much refreshed.¡°Dad complaining about wearing a jacket again?¡±, she asked.Minnie nodded happily.¡°So who¡¯s gonna clean the fish tonight then?¡±, Will asked, full well knowing what the answer would be.¡°We caught it you know, only fair¡­¡±, Naomi started.He held up his hands with a laugh, ¡°Yeah yeah, I know.¡± Will answered, ¡°Can I at least make a cuppa while I work, please mom.¡±.Minnie laughed happily, ¡°Yes, but no sugar, only people that catch fish get sugar.¡±.

 Close to Home

    Chapter 30. Close to Home


    As much as Will enjoyed being the captain of the Rose, sailing off on adventures.Working with the towns, taking crews off to mine for coal and ore, he also enjoyed simpler things.Standing over the galley sink cleaning the two fat fish, carefully filleting the long floaters into bone free thick pieces to fry up for dinner.A nice easy task, if you know what you¡¯re doing.The guts went into their compost to be dumped after dinner along with any leftovers.As he thought that he had to laugh, those were not really a thing here, leftovers that is.Naomi was very skilled at preparing their meals, and it was always just enough.Second helpings for all most of the time, third helpings in some cases.They all had very healthy appetites.¡°Hey fish is ready.¡±, he called out.¡°About time.¡±, Minnie hollered back.He heard Naomi laugh, ¡°We¡¯ve got the chips cut and ready to go, could you load some more wood in the stove please?¡±. As he was doing this Naomi bustled in with a large bowl of thick cut chips to start frying.Minnie had a cutting board full of peelings and dumped them into the bin as well.Sometimes he marvelled at how little garbage they produced.Everything was organic in nature, no plastics of any kind which was wonderful.


    Dinner was started and fifteen minutes later they sat down to eat.Will was trying to compare the floater they were eating to fish from his original world.Definitely not salmon, kind of a cross between halibut and cod.Very tasty and that¡¯s what counted for him.Minnie too by the way her fish was disappearing along with the extra large portion of deep fried goodies.Thinking of deep frying and Christmas dredged up a memory, of a treat they used to have only at this time of year.¡°Hey Minnie, what¡¯s the name of that dessert snack at Christmas parties, the one we used to have?¡±, he didn¡¯t really expect her to know but sometimes she jogged his memory. ¡°Arglebargle.¡±, was the answer, spoken through a heroic bite of fish.¡°Nope, that¡¯s not it, it was some kind of dough, sweet, with apples or raisins, then cooked in oil.¡±, he said.Doodling in his book trying to remember, he wrote a description of it but still drew a blank on the name.¡°Have we had it here, onboard?¡±, she asked, mouth empty now.¡°No, but you never know what you know until you know that you know it.¡±, he replied absently, slicing off his next bite.Minnie just shook her head, ¡°Righto.¡±.


    Will was doing the dishes, storing the oil for next time, generally cleaning the kitchen when it struck him, the name, Oliebollen.¡°Aha.¡±, he yelled, Hearing Minnie jump down from her chair, footsteps running in, ¡°What¡¯s up? Burn yourself, broke a dish, saw a bug?¡±.He shook his head ¡°None of those but I did remember that holiday dessert I told you about, you¡¯ll love it. We¡¯ll only have it at Christmas though.¡±.¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±, Minnie asked.Will thought for a bit, why indeed. ¡°Just cause, moms family only had it once a year so we did too.¡±.As they talked Will asked Minnie to write this down in his notebook, but not to snoop around there were secrets in there.¡°Ooh secrets, pressies for me hmmm, okay how do you spell this stuff.¡±, she asked.¡°Oliebollen, just spell it like it sounds, we¡¯ll know what you mean.¡±, Will said, then stifled a yawn. Minnie gasped in horror, ¡°Oh no, you started it this time,¡±, a huge yawn escaped a second later.Yawning back and forth for a a few minutes was entertaining but there were a few things to do before bed.


    Will went up top, dumped the slops and checked that all was secure.Still crummy weather but not the bone numbing cold of the past weeks.The tiny harbour they were in was still protecting them and the boat and crew would be safe overnight.He headed back down.As he did he realized that he had just thrown a jacket on, a long one to be sure, but still just that.¡°Hooray.¡±, he muttered.Most of the lanterns were out, just a bit of light coming from his and Minnie¡¯s cabin.She was waiting on their large bed , her quilts and blankets piled neatly on her side.¡°I dunno why I¡¯m so tired, didn¡¯t do much today, maybe that¡¯s why.¡±, he said, closing the door and sitting on the side of the bed.¡°We should stay here a couple of days, me and Naomi think so, in this safe lil harbour, just have a couple of days rest, do not much, you¡¯ve been so busy and you look tired, you never look tired and we¡¯re worried.¡±, she blurted out.Looking at her sad little face, there wasn¡¯t anything to do but agree.¡°Sounds good to me sweetie, let¡¯s eat meatloaf for dinner and play cards and drink tea all day til we¡¯re recharged.¡±.She cheered up immediately, hugged him and scampered to the head.He changed into night clothes and waited for his turn. Minnie had always been quick to finish up and she was out in a few minutes, hair brushed and teeth sparkling.A few minutes and they both settled into the bed, heads nearly together.¡°Night dad.¡±, she did, he mumbled in return as sleep carried him away.She dimmed the lantern and he was gone.


    To the far north, in the new burrows, the busy day was winding down.Villagers sitting around fires, talking and visiting.The little ones were all asleep, bundled in furs on pine bough mattress¡¯s.Cutting new caves was hard work but the new iron tools ate through the rock easily.The hard part was lugging buckets of rock out, but their town walls were growing higher and safer each day.As Katya poured a last cup of herb tea before bed there was a rumbling through the walls of their home.¡°Another earth shake!Therd wake up, get the little ones outside!¡±, she called out.Her husband went from dead asleep to wide awake and moving in seconds, no time to waste.The burrows were built by experienced cavers, leaving supports everywhere.Ceilings were thick with no cracks, these people knew how to dig.In the previous earthshakes no caves had collapsed, but she still worried, so outside they all went to wait things out.Which didn¡¯t take long thank goodness as it was cold and snow was falling.¡°It¡¯s clear now Katya, no more shakes, let¡¯s go back down¡±, Therd said after a few minutes.She agreed and they went back down the spirals and were home.Laying Uma and Oona back down on the soft pallets, they dropped back to sleep easily enough, but before she did Uma asked ¡°will the shakes hurt Minnie and Naomi and the captain?¡±.Therd laughed and comforted his little girl, ¡°Nah little one, an earthshake in the water can¡¯t hurt anyone.¡±.


    The crew was quite used to the ship moving in the night, they didn¡¯t really notice it anymore.Being anchored safely in this harbour the Rose was bobbing gently at her anchor chains, the lake was calm tonight.Still snowing but hardly any wind to start drifts, just a steady accumulation of abound an inch per hour.It would be something for the crew to do tomorrow, a snowball war, building snowmen or just shovelling over side.Inside mostly everyone was asleep, Will snoring, Naomi slumbering with a book on her face, safety candle guttered out finally but Minnie was awake and fighting with her quilts. The plan to stay here for a couple of days had taken a load off of Minnie¡¯s mind, the old guy was looking drawn out and beat up.The last weeks had been busy for all of them but hardest on dad, he was responsible for everyone and everything.She just wished they had some fresh beef, he loved ribs and steaks so much.Making a note to check out the island tomorrow, it was pretty small but there might be game of some kind, birds maybe.¡°Yum, chicken.¡±, she murmured.Thinking of chicken wings, deep fried battered chicken, roast chicken she too slipped off to dreamland.


    The site of the first earthshake, the big one that had started this leg of the crew¡¯s adventure was quiet now.A crack in the earth now reached from lakeside to hundreds of miles inland, all the way to the far mountains.Deep and wide, nearly impossible to cross and now that it was filling with water it was even worse.The bottom was at least one hundred feet down, easily half a mile across even at the narrowest point, the coast had changed forever.The first to swim through and investigate was a herd of harbour seals.Fish were plentiful in this new inlet and as they travelled on more sea life appeared and joined them.Whales mostly, too cold for dolphins here, no octopus or sharps either.A young sea serpent had investigated for a while, her coils easily a hundred feet long.Fearsome as she looked the only food she enjoyed was the deep squid, finding none the serpent left this inhospitable area.So it was seals and whales, travelling the long miles to the end of the channel, high rock walls rising thirty feet above the water.At this far end the channel had cut through a mighty forest, two and three hundred foot trees had been felled by the earthshaking.The king of this forest was the tree that Naomi had sighted a few weeks ago.It stood fifty yards from the end of the channel, undisturbed by all the kerfuffle that had taken place over the last few months.This tree had roots deep and strong, more than enough to keep it secure through almost anything, the only thing it couldn¡¯t survive would be an axe.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    The crew had slept long and deep, slumber filled with dreams that none of them could remember after waking.But it was a much refreshed Will that opened his eyes this morning, there was nothing wearing at him, no arduous task just waiting to be remembered.The usual, checking anchors, filling the boiler, easy stuff.He had a list, surprisingly long, that he scheduled daily.Today and for the next couple of days it was the bare minimum. After months and months of voyaging and adventures it was time to sit and smell the roses.Low on supplies or not.Will kind of regretted giving away so much of their emergency rations, but only a little bit.The people had needed it badly and the crew had access to the entire lake for gathering.There was still one barrel left too, oatmeal and salt pork and beef.Canned fruit and vegetables, jam, flour and bread makings.Biscuits and tea as well.In fact, he decided, they were going to open up the last one today to supplement what they had.A few days wasn¡¯t going to make a difference.


    Things were clearing, going from sleep to awake usually took a couple of minutes.Stretching and deciding to get up, noting that Minnie was up and out already was a little concerning.But he could smell something cooking, and coffee, so that was just fine.Yawning took a minute then up to the head and getting dressed, leisure today, no work clothes.When he went on deck it was easy enough to put his coveralls on.So flip flops and shorts, light shirt it was.Opening the cabin door he was greeted with laughter and music coming from the open door of the mess.Naomi¡¯s violin and Minnie¡¯s tin whistle then bouts of giggling.Ah, family he thought.


    He crept down the corridor, avoiding the creaky board, then sprang into the mess hall with a yell.¡°Good morning!¡±.Naomi almost dropped her violin and Minnie overbalanced with a squeak, almost tipping out of her chair.Will steadied her, grasping her small shoulder until she found her footing.¡°Oh hey dad, have a good sleep?We made oatmeal and ham, yucky raisins too for your oatmeal, and tea, always tea.Naomi likes coffee best and said your dumb for liking tea.¡±, Minnie said happily.Naomi clapped her hand over Minnie¡¯s mouth ¡°I did not say he was dumb, you¡¯re just making that up now, I said I like both, you said I was dumb cause they¡¯re both yucky.¡±, she pulled her now wet hand away.¡°Well it was something like that, but you¡¯re okay now, not tired right?¡±, Minnie asked anxiously.He sat and poured a cuppa from the waiting pot, took a sip and answered, ¡°I had a great night, I feel good but let¡¯s take it easy still.Been pushing hard the last little while.¡±.The tea was really good, and so was the oatmeal.Nice and thick with just a tiny bit of honey added, just the way he liked it.Minnie had a small portion, but mostly she tried forming it into a castle.Her breakfast was mostly fried ham.¡°Why would someone want to live in a castle, seems a lot of work to me.¡±, Naomi said, eating her own porridge.¡°You gotta have a castle if your a bad guy, just the way it is.¡±, Minnie told her.As his girls chatted and argued, laughed and ate together Will was writing in his notebook.


    He was trying to figure out just when they should celebrate Christmas, and that depended on what day today actually was.It was definitely November, in the old world calendar, but the date was murky.Second week, third week, near the end?He guessed a date could just arbitrarily be picked and go from there.There was thirty days in November and thirty one in December, then same with January¡­how did that old rhyme go again?


    Thirty days hath September,


    April, June, and November;


    All the rest have thirty-one,


    Excepting February alone,


    And that has twenty-eight days clear


    And twenty-nine in each leap year.


    Right, it¡¯ll be hard to keep track of leap years so that might just be ignored until it really matters.Kinda like daylight saving time, he thought, no one but scientists really cared about it.¡°Hey guys, I¡¯ve been working out the date, months and so on.But we need to pick a day and date and go on from there.¡±.Minnie perked up, her oatmeal long cold and congealed.Naomi had made her some toast which she like better, especially with strawberry jam.¡°Just choose a date, I got some napping to do.¡±, she said.¡°Hey Naomi.¡±: Will called.She stuck her head out of the galley, ¡°Just making toast, you want some too dad?¡±, she asked.¡°Ooh, yes please sweety, Minnie ate all the ham.He got a crust thrown at him, ¡°Did not.¡±.When Naomi brought a stack of fresh toast in a few minutes later, he asked her what her thoughts were on the date.Shrugging it didn¡¯t seem she cared too much either.¡°Like Minnie said, just choose a date for us to start with.We¡¯ll draw up a few¡­what did you call them again?¡±.¡°Calendars.¡±, he responded.¡°Yeah those, we¡¯ll draw up a few today and post them around so we get used to it, but what day are you going to start with?¡±.


    Now that was what he had been wrestling with.¡°There is a special day, in late November.I could never forget that one and it¡¯s pretty close to this time.It was always a cold and snowy day.¡±, he said with a smile.¡°Well, what is it then, start us off dad.¡±, Minnie said.She had her notebook open, ready to write down the first day.¡°Today is Friday November 22, the reason I¡¯ll always remember is because it¡¯s our wedding anniversary.Today should have been, well still is,our sixtieth year together.¡±, he said with a smile.Minnie diligently wrote this down.¡°So it goes how again, what comes after Friday, and I know Christmas is on December 25, but what¡¯s after that again?¡±, she asked.Will lead her through the whole thing, January to December, with a poem from his school days.


    January brings the snow,


    Makes our feet and fingers glow.


    February brings the rain,


    Thaws the frozen lake again.


    March brings breezes, loud and shrill,


    To stir the dancing daffodil.


    April brings the primrose sweet,


    Scatters daisies at our feet.


    May brings flocks of pretty lambs,


    Skipping by their fleecy dams.


    June brings tulips, lilies, roses,


    Fills the children''s hands with posies.


    Hot July brings cooling showers,


    Apricots, and gillyflowers.


    August brings the sheaves of corn,


    Then the harvest home is borne.


    Warm September brings the fruit;


    Sportsmen then begin to shoot.


    Fresh October brings the pheasant;


    Then to gather nuts is pleasant.


    Dull November brings the blast;


    Then the leaves are whirling fast.


    Chill December brings the sleet,


    Blazing fire, and Christmas treat.


    ¡°Thats a nice poem dad, you had to memorize that for school?¡±, Minnie said, she had him repeat it a couple of times while she wrote it down.¡°Yeah we had to do stuff like that, junior high.The English teacher was Mr Tobb.Nice guy but a real bear for memorizing stuff.¡±, Will laughed.¡°So tomorrow is Saturday, then Sunday right?¡±, Naomi asked, looking up from her own workbook.¡±.He nodded.¡°Is there a poem for that too?¡±, she continued.¡°Yup, but it¡¯s a bit silly, goes like this.¡±, he said.


    Monday''s child is fair of face,


    Tuesday''s child is full of grace,


    Wednesday''s child is full of woe,


    Thursday''s child has far to go.


    Friday''s child is loving and giving,


    Saturday''s child works hard for a living,


    And the child that is born on the Sabbath Day,


    Is bonny and blithe and good and gay.


    ¡°After we get a few calendars made we¡¯ll have to remember to make a big one for on the lounge.We can mark all special dates on there, like birthdays.¡± Will said.Minnie looked at Naomi, who shrugged, ¡°What¡¯s abirthday.¡±.

 First Weekend

    Chapter 31. First Weekend


    There had been much discussion about birthdays, how important it was to remember and celebrate.In Naomi¡¯s culture the family had one get together every year, in the summer to remember and honour the children¡¯s birth, and people that had passed.Names were read out in a ceremonial way, but no gifts.It just wasn¡¯t done.When Will had explained his custom of celebrating the day of birth with gifts and a cake, she had loved the idea.¡°And everyone sings the birthday song?, and gets separate party days?¡±, she asked, shaking her head.Will nodded, ¡°Sometimes in big families with lots of kids, cousins and so on, they might do a group birthday party, if the dates are close.But not always.¡±.Minnie had a question, ¡°When¡¯s my birthday then, and yours, and can we choose one for Naomi, and what about mom, do you celebrate for people that have passed?¡±.Fresh tea had been made, carried to the lounge with a plate of after breakfast biscuits.¡°We can work all that out, I know when yours and moms is though.¡±, Will said, ¡°We¡¯ll mark it all down.¡±.


    Before settling in though, the crew had made a trip up on deck. Still wearing their winter clothes and boots, to check that things were shipshape.Cold, windy and a ton of snow on deck.It didn¡¯t take the three of them very long to send it flying over the side and sand the decks for safety.The anchors were secure, the boat was still safe in the harbour of the small island.Which looked quite desolate, but Minnie still planned to go ashore and search for game.She had told Naomi her plan, who agreed it was a good idea and would join her.Maybe later today, maybe tomorrow.¡°We¡¯ll go on Saturday,¡±Minnie said, ¡°No, how about Sunday?¡±, countered Naomi with a laugh.They loved the names.Galley and mess cleaned up, all the chores that didn¡¯t need doing right away were on hold, today was officially a lazy day.


    Will had cracked open the last barrel of supplies, and found several tins of biscuits.Twice baked to preserve them longer, they were crunchy and sweet, perfect for dipping in tea.Which he happened to have, lucky that.He opened the door to their lounge, dark and warm.Fumbled with his teapot and biscuit tin, found a match in his pocket and lit the ceiling lantern.Dropping his treasures on a side table he pulled open the thick curtains on the port.Natural light helped lighten the room a bit.¡°Only thing missing is a fireplace, not gonna happen but it would be nice.¡± he muttered to himself.¡°Yeah it would, then Santa could come down it.¡±, Minnie answered as she entered behind him.She had an armful of sketch and notebooks, dumping them on the floor by the tree.¡°Naomi will be in a minute, changing into something more comfy, I did too.¡±.And she did look comfortable, shorts and a tee shirt only.But a blanket was nearby in case of the chills.Will had settled in his big chair, feet up on a hassock.Pouring a cuppa and opening his tin he gave a great sigh of contentment.¡°So back in our old world this is where I would turn on the tv and pass out.¡±, he said in a mumble.¡°You go ahead and just pass out dad, no need to do anything today.¡±, Minnie said.Sipping his tea his eyes blinked slower and slower until they stayed shut, he managed to put his cup safely on a table, but then was out.Minnie put her blanket over him, tucked it around him, then retired to her own chair and curled up.When Naomi joined them a few minutes later Minnie was snoring too, she laughed softly.Making sure the other two were warm and covered with no drafts.She settled in her own seat and settled to wait for them to wake, a short while later she had dropped off too.


    It took a couple of hours until everyone was awake again.Minnie woke to find Will puttering in the galley making tea and Naomi slumped in her own easy chair sound asleep.She could feel the boat rocking, more than it was earlier.But knew dad would have already noticed and checked things out.He might sleep like a rock, but some things would wake him instantly.As she walked into the mess hall Will looked out of the galley, ¡°Hey hey, how¡¯s the sleepy doing?¡±.Jumping up and sitting cross legged on their table she laughed, ¡°Hah, I¡¯m not the only one, you were down before me and Naomi¡¯s still out.¡±.Will shrugged ¡°Whole point of lazy days.¡±.Finishing up the tea preparing, everything on a tray this time in case of dropsies, they headed to the lounge.¡°So if we can stay awake let¡¯s finish up, or at least start on the calendars.¡±, Will said.Pushing the door open he found that Naomi was mostly awake too.¡°Hi guys, I sure slept heavy, felt like hours and hours.¡±, she greeted them.¡°Well yeah,¡± said Minnie, ¡° We left you here, all afternoon and night.It¡¯s morning now, I tried to wake you but nope, dad wanted to splash you with cold water, but I was like nuh uh, let the poor thing sleep I said.¡±.Naomi was nodding along as Minnie yammered on, ¡°Right, uhhuh, sure you did.¡±. They laughed at the same time.Will deposited his tray on a side table and poured a cuppa for him and Naomi, but Minnie got warmed up juice as usual.Then getting to work on their calendars.


    It had taken a couple of hours, several cups of tea, many biscuits and finally bacon sandwiches, but they had finished.A carefully lettered calendar with the year ¡®1¡¯ at the top, all the months, the days of the week and the numbered days of the month.All the crew birthdays, special occasions such as Christmas, New Year¡¯s Day.They had decided on an early spring day to commemorate Will and Minnie¡¯s arrival, May the first.This one was private to them, other smaller versions would be the mess, wheelhouse and so on.Maybe having scheduled visits to Newton or Laketown, the Burrows, other places as discovered over the coming years.Will had recorded Minnie¡¯s birthday as December the first, and Naomi¡¯s as June first, as best as she could figure.His own was in July.There were others marked as well, his wife¡¯s and children and grandkids.To have a special day to remember someone was nice.It was too easy to let the days run on without keeping track, he wondered if it would take on, the calendar that is.He knew that the people of the towns used a schedule of some kind.For deliveries, crops, keeping track of supplies and so on.It would be interesting to see.


    Naomi had decided it would be a good night for a long leisurely bath, Minnie as well.They had plenty of water to top up the boiler after using it for hot water, so that took up the next couple of hours.They only had one tub, so Will was of course last, that was okay with him.Minnie¡¯s hair was everywhere after, and that she had to brush right away or she would end up a snarled mess.Will or Naomi usually helped with the bits she couldn¡¯t get to easily, a lot of work.Too bad she didn¡¯t have a blow dryer, Will thought.After Naomi¡¯s hour long soak, then Minnie¡¯s just as long, Will finally got in for a scrubbing.Sitting in the hot water made him miss swimming and salt water showers even more.There was something so refreshing when he could cannonball off of the deck anytime he wanted.Yet another thing on the list in his notebook, under the heading ¡®Soon¡¯. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    After everyone was clean, bathing room cleaned along with the tub it was time for a sweet treat before bed.Tonight it was bread pudding, but with apple juice instead of milk, a spoonful of cornstarch to thicken it up a bit.It worked out quite well, even though Minnie threw her raisins out but enjoyed the rest.While eating dessert the crew was enjoying the lounge, more cosy than the mess.Not quite as warm, the galley kept that a bit toastier.Finishing his heroic portion Will said he was going to up top for a last check.Minnie decided to stay behind, her hair was still damp in places, same with Naomi.¡°My hair would freeze solid, and it¡¯s just so nice and warm here.¡± she said.He laughed and with an ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡±, left to get dressed in warmer clothes.


    Climbing the chilly stairs to the upper deck, he could feel the temperature dropping quickly.Even through his quilted coveralls the cold was penetrating, without the other layers he wouldn¡¯t last long.Holding a lantern he walked the length of the ship, from stern to bow and back again tooka little while.More snow had fallen and he was shovelling as he walked.Just a few inches but enough.Still windy, from the north, the Rose¡¯s coloured pennants were flapping bravely.The anchor chains were masses of ice but he left that alone after checking that the hawsepipes weren¡¯t being stressed by the ice.Time enough to do that when they were preparing to leave.The wheelhouse was, well not hot but warmish.The radiators had been turned down, just enough to keep things from freezing and ice forming upon the instruments.When they got going the wood stove would warm things up fast.Making sure the door shut tight behind him it was time to get back below.A last look out to sea, then to the dark bulk of land on their port side.Nothing but black in any direction.A bit of moonlight now and then when it managed to get through the clouds but no stars tonight. The heave was slight in their little harbour and the boat was safe for another night.


    Shivering he went below, carrying the empty sand buckets, he had strewn it generously in the area around the stair shed.¡°Have to remember to refill, tomorrow though.¡± he muttered while undressing below.Back to shorts and a light shirt he went to find his family.He found Naomi in the galley filling their hot water bottles.¡°Oh good, just in time, this is your and this is Minnie¡¯s, she needs her own she said cause your legs are unnaturally long.¡±, and she handed him the heavy warm bags.¡°Ooh no problem.¡±, he said.They felt wonderful to his still chilly hands, taking the opportunity to warm them up he slowly walked to his cabin and deposited the bags under the heavy covers.Turning he found a smiling Minnie, ¡°Everything okay up top?, I would have come but brrr.¡±. ¡°We¡¯re okay for another night, but it¡¯s sure cold up there.¡±, Will answered.They walked the few feet to the lounge together.¡°Do you want to play crib, Naomi said she would and it¡¯s more fun with three, so yeah?¡±, Min asked.¡°Of course, that and Yahtzee are two of my favourite games.¡±, Will replied.Well that needed explaining.How to play, why it was called that, what did you need, how many people, lots of questions.Will answered best he could, the only one he didn¡¯t know was why it was called that.The problem they had was the lack of dice.According to Naomi they were not a thing in this world, and it wasn¡¯t something he could make easily.But there were alternatives that were pretty easy.Spinners, numbered one to six, or single marked stones.Engraved or etched with numbers, shaken in a cup then chosen.¡°We¡¯ll work on that.¡±, Will said.Then a thought hit, ¡°Your skill is pretty high on repairing now, maybe you could work on that tomorrow Min.¡±.Her eyes unfocused for a minute while she checked her Menu.


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Attributes (close to hide details)


    Intelligence 20/25


    Strength 23/25


    Vitality 23/25


    Stamina 23/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose, Able Seaman, Watch Stander


    Skills (close to hide details)


    Navigator 3


    Artist


    Piloting 3


    Mechanic 3


    Crab Catcher


    Shrimper


    Tinker


    Joker


    Arborist


    Labourer 1


    Lumberjack


    Sailor


    ¡°So I am a mechanic and a tinker, when I hit more it said I can fiddle with broken things and work out how to fix them.And I can figure out how things work, which is nice.¡±, Minnie said after a minute or two.Will thought that was pretty handy indeed.¡°Maybe I¡¯ll try to build those dice things tomorrow, but for now it¡¯s game time.¡±, she continued.


    The game, tonight anyway, was crib.Three handed, was like Minnie said, more fun.Will had made a cribbage board months ago, a simple one.Big enough to be easily read by everyone, nice big pegs coloured bright red, blue and of course yellow.It was their custom to play Rochambeau to see who gets to play yellow before each game.Will had a bad habit of always, or mostly always, playing rock, so he rarely played the yellow pegs.Their hand made deck of cards was becoming worn, time to get a replacement made when they got to Newton.Looking at the familiar cards he again marvelled at the differences here.A simple deck of cards, completely unheard of, dice were unknown.He wondered if they had ever played chess or checkers.Not wanting to open that up tonight he kept quiet about it.


    As they played, he was trying to remember other card games.He had pondered this before, but the problem was it had just been the two of them for many years.There was Old Maid, or Crazy Eights.But too much competition could be problematic to their small family.He didn¡¯t want anyone to get hard feelings from a card game.So far the two they played were great fun and he was probably going to leave it at that for a while.Too much too fast, might ruin things.And as it was he was number three when it came to winning at crib anyway.Minnie and Naomi were pretty evenly matched at wins and losses.Seeing Minnie count up a 18 point hand, win and skunk Naomi was pretty good fun.¡°Well guys, the cards are against me tonite.But I¡¯ll win for sure this time, deal away Minnie.¡±, he said.¡°No chance dad, you¡¯re skunked for sure this time.¡±, Naomi laughed.With more tea and juice, biscuits and left over dessert, then a late night snack of toasted cheese and bread they played long into the night.No clear winner but no one really bothered keeping track, just having a good time.After all it was the weekend.

 Sundays Children

    Chapter 32. Sundays Children


    As the saying went, Sundays children were bonny and blithe, which certainly suited Minnie and Naomi.Carefree and easy going, both happypeople.The next part was that the children of Sunday were good, another easy one.Doing the right thing, being a person of your word, reliable, to Will that was being good.The last part was a bit tricky though, the rhyme was written a long time ago, when being gay just meant happy and cheerful.When he was explaining to the crew what it meant that was what he stuck to.Not that he cared one way or the other but it seemed his old world was polarized on the subject and he was, truth to be told, a little tired of it. Remembering the Ed drama of a few months ago was a bit reassuring that Newton and Laketown had more important things to care about than who you loved.


    The whole thing started when Minnie asked which day she was born on and Will had to admit he had no idea.Then she asked which day she was like, referring to the poem .Well, of course he said Sunday because he wasn¡¯t an idiot.Then when Naomi asked the same question, he had to pretend to think about his answer.Again he said Sundays child because of the same reason.Honestly, did anyone really want to be full of woe, or have far to go?Of course not.So Sundays it was.When they asked him what day he was born on, when he told them it was Tuesday and he was full of grace it made them smile.¡°Dad, I¡¯ve seen you trip on air.¡±, Minnie laughed.¡°It doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m graceful, it means I am kind and compassionate, at least according to a two hundred year old poem.¡±, he replied.¡°How do you know all this stuff, all these details on just about everything?¡±, Naomi asked.That made Will think for a moment.Why did he?¡°I read a lot, any and every kind of book.Most authors do a lot of research when writing and you can pick up facts from that.¡±, he wenton.¡°I started reading very young and just got in the habit of trying to learn something from every book.¡±.Remembering how hard it had been to find the meaning of long words, when he was young.One of his favourite authors had a character that used long long words, for a while he tried to as well but it really discombobulates people when you do that.


    Naomi was a voracious reader and had brought dozens of books with her when she became part of the crew.She had mentioned she had more at her old home and would love to get them next stop.Will had read a few and found they were mostly love stories with an adventure added in, or maybe they were adventure stories with a love twist.The authors were local, one in Laketown but the others from Newton, oddly enough mostly school teachers. Nice to read in a simple fashion but also gave a glimpse into the lives of people, how they interacted and behaved.At times difficult because of references to history or society that he had no clue of.This had led him to gather all the history books he could, geography as well.Certain things wouldremain the same, no matter which world you were on, 2+2 would always be 4.


    Now these books and Naomi¡¯s collection lived in their lounge, several well made shelves nicely full.Minnie had taken to reading the romance stories, and would get quite annoyed when the characters did things she didn¡¯t agree with.¡°Why wouldn¡¯t he just tell her, why wait until she found out and hated him for not telling¡­gah these people are idiots.¡±, she had yelled, more then once.¡°Makes it more interesting, do you really think anyone would read a story where all they do is drink tea and talk?¡±, Will asked.¡°I guess not, but they¡¯re really frustrating.¡±, Min replied.Naomi chimed in ¡°I know that one well, and every time I read it I think the same thing too.¡±.Minnie was a bit stunned, ¡°Why would you read a book more than once, you know what¡¯s going to happen, don¡¯t you?¡±.That kinda flummoxed Will, he had always enjoyed rereading favourites.¡°I guess so, but I can¡¯t remember all the details so, yeah but only some.¡±.Minnie was not convinced, he could tell she thought he was weird.


    Today, bring the last of their weekend holiday was going to be as quiet and as lazy as yesterday.Will had gone on deck early to check, all was the same as yesterday, cold and wintery.Breakfast was long and drawn out, no hurry to do anything or go anywhere.There had been an odd wave now and then, making the Rose bounce a bit.Nothing that lingered though.They were all aware of changes in the boat, not on a conscious level, just knowing if something was different.The anchors were still tight, very crusted with ice but that would hammer off easily enough.Same with the davits holding the dory, easy enough to knock off when needed.Looking at the dory, and thinking of how they were missing a boat now, Will had found another project, which gave him joy.After the destruction of their third boat by sharps they really missed it.So his plan was to take the remaining one apart and cut pieces to match, then just build another boat.Maybe make a few improvements too.¡°Does it really need to be foldable, or can we just make it put together all the time?¡±, Minnie asked.Good point, he thought.¡°Let¡¯s not make it folding at all, just skip that part, or those parts.Whichever it is.¡±, said Will.


    So now they were in the hold carefully dismantling the folder, taking measurements to cut new parts.Again they felt the Rose rock a bit more than she had been.¡°What¡¯s with that now?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Not sure sweetie, it kinda rings a bell, something that I can¡¯t quite remember.¡±, Will answered.Rogue waves were always dangerous but they were pretty safe in their secluded harbour, no danger from that.Well, he was sure it would come to him after a while, things usually did.For now a late dinner, they had all woken early after their lazy day yesterday.Breakfast was hours ago.Making plans about the boat had taken a while and the day was about gone.Naomi had retired to the galley, so Minnie and Will were on deck.Preparing to start voyaging again, there were a couple of chores to do.First was cracking the ice buildup off of the anchor chains.At least a foot thick and woven through and around the links.Will hit the starboard and Minnie hit the port, the ice broke off easily under the hammer blows and fell into the black water below.The other chores was to check the oil level in the midships lantern, in case they needed to use it.It was still half full, but the wick was trimmed and the glass cleaned and polished.It had gotten surprisingly grimy.Now they had to do the fore and aft lanterns as well, both equally smudged up. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Ship all ready for travel tomorrow, an early start was planned.A straight run for Newton, a couple of weeks steaming.Their fuel was in good shape, all bunkers nice and full.Same with water, as they were shovelling snow off of the deck Minnie had a thought, ¡°Can we use this for water, like leave empty barrels up here to get full of snow?¡±.That hadtaken Will aback for a moment.He was used to not putting anything snow related in his mouth, air pollution made that an iffy thing to do.But here?Wood and coal smoke from three towns, so far, and one boat did not equal much in the way of pollutants.¡°Yeah we can, still boiling it though cause of microbes and viruses.¡±, he answered.So all their empty barrels had been lashed in place to collect the nice clean snow drifting down. It would take a lot of snow to fill a barrel with drinkable water, luckily they were in a place with a tons of the stuff.As they stood and looked out at the small island that had protected them for the last two days, it was cold and getting colder as the light dimmed.Still Minnie wanted to go to the isle tomorrow with Naomi to see if there was anything worth hunting.Even a few pigeons would be nice roasted, not gulls though cause yuck.Just then the stair door opened and Naomi called them for dinner, and at that moment Will felt about ten years old again.Being called by mom cause you can¡¯t be trusted to come home on your own.He glanced at Minnie, who side-eyed him, then they both burst out laughing ¡°Coming mom.¡±, and followed her downstairs.


    Dinner was scalloped fish pies, mashed taters and carrots mixed and fried into crispy little patties, Minnie loved them.It was just so crunchy and tasty,she ate way too many and nearly had to be carried into the lounge after dinner. Will and Naomi played a hand or two of cards, Minnie just watched this time, just didn¡¯t have the energy she said.Afterwards Naomi told a few memories of her school days.The custom was for children to attend school for seven years, then if they showed an aptitude for higher learning would be apprenticed to a teacher or physician, not many though.But everyone got the basics, and then off to the family business or whatever work interested them.In her sixth year of school she had been interested in driving wagons, ¡°Like Ed?¡± Minnie asked. She nodded. The days long drives between farms picking up produce and mail, sometimes passengers, sounded like an adventure.But her life had been planned around the tavern, helping Regina more and more so that hadn¡¯t happened.¡°Did you coming with us mess up Regina¡¯s plan?¡±, Will asked.¡°Yes, but she had to get past it.When she found out about the menu thing, and when she seesthis.¡±, she indicated her rose tattoo, ¡°This is my life, and she will have to be all right with it.¡±.


    After a tea break, Minnie had won the battle against dinner and felt up to interacting again.She and Naomi were playing and singing together, all the tunes from Naomi¡¯s world and some that Will had remembered.Minnie¡¯s high pitched voice reminded Will of something, that he would never speak of.It would never be written either.There was an old Christmas song about a hula hoop, by Alvin and the chipmunks.Not exactly like them, her voice was more nuanced, more soprano.But quite similar.Naomi was more of a contralto and together the effect was charming.The songs of this world were more ballads, telling stories of love and life, drinking songs and stories of legends.¡°Maybe some day they¡¯ll be songs about the wondrous Rose and her crew.¡±, Minnie laughed.Will hoped so, it would be comforting to be remembered like that.Having finished his tea, giving a stretch and a yawn, he decided to get to bed.Minnie came along and Naomi called it a night as well.Checking all lanterns were out they retired to their cabins with good nights and sleep wells.


    In their cosy cabin Minnie readied for sleep first, then Will.Still a bit cool, the idea of more insulation danced through his mind.Maybe sawdust, in cloth bags between the outer hull and the inner wall.Might be heavy though, maybe only insulate two or three rooms.This voyage north had shown they could handle things, the cold and bad weather.He just didn¡¯t like it.Saying as much to Minnie, if she liked the snowy weather and all that came with it.Her answer was a definite not really.¡°It was fun at first, and maybe when it¡¯s really hot I¡¯ll miss it, but every day with this is kinda yuck.¡±.She jumped into the warm bed first and sunk under the quilts, Will settled in and blew out the single candle that had lit the room.It was pitch black, only the wind and usual boat creaks to rock them to sleep.¡°Night Min, it was a nice weekend huh.¡± Will murmured as he rolled o his side.As he did he thought of croquettes for some reason, lovely little deep fried balls of turkey and stuffing.He had loved them so much, remembering the first time his wife had made them.She had said it was a Dutch thing, her family had always made them. I wonder if we can get a Turkey for Christmas, was his last thought and he was gone.Minnie heard/felt him fall asleep and cuddled closer for warmth.Not that they were cold but she liked to feel he was there, this was where she had spent every night of her life.She too fell into the deep dark pool of sleep, dreaming of hunting pigeons.


    Next morning they woke, just after sun up. Ready to get on with travelling.Back to the land of milk and eggs.Only one thing left to do here.

 The Hunt is On

    Chapter 33. The Hunt is On


    They were eager to get going, but there was one thing they were all looking forward to do first.¡°Come on already, I¡¯ve loaded the bows, checked the arrows, got the game bags, packed a lunch, got a cask of water, got some firewood, we¡¯re all ready, let¡¯s goooo.¡±, Minnie yelled down to Naomi.She and Will were on deck, dressed as warm as possible and Min was a bit impatient.The boat was loaded and floating gently by the steps.Will was passing the time throwing a line in, just to see how his luck was today.Nothing so far but you never know.Finally Naomi came up, carrying a another side bag, ¡°All you packed was biscuits, I think we need a bit more than that.¡±.Minnie shrugged, she liked biscuits.Laughing to himself Will cast one more time, slowly reeling but again no bites.Maybe he¡¯d have better luck with pigeons, or turkey, geese maybe, whatever lived here.Checking the Roses anchors one last time, off they went.Minnie was rowing, and the boat shot to the isle in minutes.She jumped out as they crunched into the shore and was scanning the beach for targets.Will stepped out a bit more leisurely followed by Naomi, carrying their bows.¡°Yay, maybe this time huh.¡±: Minnie squeaked.¡°Well there¡¯s no trees to shoot at on the beach, let¡¯s head in a little more.¡±, Naomi laughed.


    This was one small islet, the curving harbour and beach were easily a quarter of the whole thing.The surrounding hills rose up about twenty feet then to a flat area behind that sloped into the lake beyond.Not much in vegetation, mostly some scrub bushes and a few spruce trees.There didn¡¯t seem to be anywhere that game of any kind could hide.But Naomi told Minnie to be patient.¡°There¡¯s some game, around Laketown, that when cornered tend to fly like mad, very far and very fast.¡±.She went on to tell them that these birds could fly long distances and had been found farfrom Laketown.¡°Look Min, there¡¯s some tracks, fresh too.¡±, she pointed down,leading to the overhanging branches of a small fir, growing about fifty feet from the shore,were vague markings.If it was just Will he wouldn¡¯t have noticed at all, just a wind pattern on the snow.He was not the best shot with a bow so he was leaving the hunting to Minnie and Naomi.He had made them laugh when he said he preferred hunting at a butchers shop.At first he had nearly said grocery store, but it had been late and that explanation could take a while.But he really meant it.He felt that unless you grew up in a hunting family or community it was very hard to just start.Unless you had to, like in an apocalypse or something.And that hadn¡¯t happened¡­yet.


    Standing back by the bluff that led down to the harbour, just watching.He brushed the snow off of a handy rock he gingerly lowered to sit on it. Brrr too cold, the cold seeped into him pretty quickly, so no sitting there.Kneeling in the thick snow was better, the thick leather patches on his knees and shins stopped the moisture penetrating.He brushed off the rock and set his bow down.Watching the other two stalking the tracks was all the hunting he needed right now and it seemed that something had been found.Naomi called to Minnie, ¡°Be ready.¡±, and she threw a snowball at the base of the tree.With a snap of wings and hissing calls of alarm a flurry of grouse sprang into the air. Minnie¡¯s arrow hit one and downed it, as did Naomi¡¯s hurried shot.Two ten pound birds were their prizes. Minnie had tried after another but her shot just hit water after missing the bird by inches.She was not upset at missing but jumping up and down in excitement at hitting one.¡°Did you see that dad, got one, it was fast too but I was faster, ooh I wonder what it will taste like, chicken maybe, I like chicken nearly as much as ribs¡­.¡±, she ran on.Naomi laughed ¡°Good shot Minnie, I thought you¡¯d miss that first one.¡±, they fist bumped.¡°Well done guys, looks like a fresh dinner for us tonight huh.¡±, Will said happily.After checking the rest of the trees for game and finding none it was time to go back to the Rose and get moving on.The entire hunt had only taken a couple of hours so there was lots of daylight left to travel in.As they headed to the beached dory, prizes in hand there was a slight rumble beneath their feet and the island seemed to shift a little bit.


    When that happened Will finally remembered what had been nibbling at his brain.The odd waves, bouncing at anchor for no reason.There had probably been earthquakes happening for the past while and they just hadn¡¯t noticed while being on the water.As they loaded up and rowed backWill was telling Minnie and Naomi why earthquakes under water were particularly dangerous, not for boats.¡°Boats are usually safe from the effects, there might be a big wave or two, nothing we couldn¡¯t handle.¡±.They reached the Rose, clambering aboard and lifting and locking the dory in place.¡°The waves are very dangerous to the shore peoples.As the water is deeper the waves can be small, a few feet to us, but when it hits the beach it could be a hundred feet high.¡±.Will and Naomi pulled the anchors one by one, waiting on the last while Minnie had gone below and turned the boiler to high.¡°Have you seen a, what did you call it, the wave¡­have you seen one?¡±, Naomi asked.He shook his head, ¡°Tsunami, and just the after effects on tv.It was horrible.¡±.Remembering the loss of life, property damage, the complete devastation.He never wanted to see that here.¡°Have you ever heard of this?¡±, he asked Naomi, hoping she said no.¡°Not at Laketown but some of the Newton kids were talking about a lake flood a couple of years ago.A big wave came close to the town and wiped out a couple of farms.Minnie had come back on deck and asked if everything was okay, they looked serious.¡°Talking about the wave still, might have been something like it in Newton a while ago.¡±, Will told her.¡°Let¡¯s get out of here then.¡±, she shivered, ¡°In case it¡¯s happening.¡±.She headed into the wheelhouse and Will could feel the engine come to life.He and Naomi pulled the last anchor in and they pulled away from the safe harbour.


    Gathered in the wheelhouse the location of this islet was marked.A good safe harbour was a rare thing and would definitely be used again.The crew decided to call it ¡®Little Grouse Island¡¯, and so it was marked.Naomi and Minnie went below to pluck the feathers and brine the birds for dinner.Will had the conn and after getting them on the reverse heading of the trip north, he tied the wheel and wrote his log.The Rose was making good time southward, nice black smoke pouring out of the stack.Reading through the logs the little drawings of Minnie had changed from fishing or swimming to building snowmen or throwing snowballs, sometimes shooting tiny trees with tinier arrows.Also there were a few of the tiny drawings that the tiny Minnie¡¯s were just standing and shivering.Will thought she might be trying to tell him something.But however charming this was he still needed to get the days events down in the log.The end of the weekend and the hunt, no matter how quickly it had gone.It had been a success and that¡¯s what counted most.And he was looking forward to tonight¡¯s meal.If the grouse lived up to how Naomi described them.


    After a couple of hours of writing Will was pleasantly interrupted by a thoroughly disgusted Minnie.He took in her bedraggled fur and overall rumpled appearance and asked ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±.She looked at him with wounded eyes.¡°Did you know how we had to get the feathers off the birds?¡± she asked.Will thought for a bit, ¡°Dip them in boiling water and yank them out?¡±, he asked.She nodded, ¡°But before that you gotta cut off the head, and feet, then cut it open and stick your hand in and bleargh.¡±.He made the mistake of laughing a bit and got glared at.¡°Sorry sweetie but that¡¯s just gotta be done, like a fish.¡±.He added ¡°Just think of the arrows you can make from the feathers huh.¡±.Sighing she sat in her pilot chair, and poured a mug of apple juice from the supply kept in here, ¡°I know, but it¡¯s still yucky.¡±.She went on ¡°That was sure fun though, and did you see that shot I made?And Naomi¡¯s gonna cook them for dinner, with crispy taters and some canned peas, which taste weird to me so she¡¯s doing carrots too, but no cinnamon this time, it makes me yak a little bit, only on carrots yeah, it¡¯s nice in pies though.¡±.Rambling on about her day, and how much fun she had was nice for Will to hear.Lately they seemed in a bit of a rut.It would be nice to get back to civilization, at least for a couple of weeks.


    The day progressed as days do, getting darker toward the late afternoon.Will took a break from the helm, leaving it in Minnie¡¯s capable hands.Going below he could smell something delectable cooking and realized it was getting close to dinner. Now to decide on going closer to the coast tolook for a layover or coast on slowly through the night.A quick trip to his cabin, then checking in with Naomi.He found her in the galley, humming away while preparing their evening meal.¡°Hey, having fun?¡±, he asked.She jumped slightly, hadn¡¯t noticed him before.Then laughed while turning back to the prepared birds, ready for roasting.¡°It was nice to get these, make me think of being little, watching and helping mom and Regina prepare them.¡±, she replied.¡°Well Minnie¡¯s looking forward to these,more than anything lately.We¡¯ll have to do this more, the hunting, not eating dinner.¡±, Will said.¡°Looking for an anchorage for the night, how long do you need?¡±, he continued.She looked around the galley, thinking for a minute, ¡°Two hours, from now to on the table.¡±.Nodding, he reached and stole a raw carrot from the bowl, waved and headed back up. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Back on deck it was getting dimmer as the light left slowly.This time of year was weird, it was bright all day, then slowly dimmed until night came down quickly.Looking to the east he could see the dim outline of the coast, hoping they could find a safe place to rest for the night.The weather was definitely changing, for the good though.While still cold the further south the boat steamed the better it got.Not as cold, lots of snow still, the barrels were mostly filled, ready to go below and boiled for fresh.Minnie saw him and let loose on the steam whistle, letting him know.Waving he continued walking the deck, just liking to check things.Just the normal waves today, nothing like the wild water to the north.The Rose easily handled them, tirelessly climbing and breaching down the other side.Climbing up to the wheelhouse he stopped at the top of the stairs.There was some ice build up on the door and he drew a happy face, he knew Minnie had never seen anything like it, and wanted to see what she thought.


    Going inside she immediately asked ¡°What the heck is that, and why do I like it?¡±.He laughed ¡°It¡¯s called a happy face, they¡¯re everywhere in our old world, I just thought you¡¯d like it.¡±.She leaned over and gave him a hug, ¡°It¡¯s cute, I love it.You know you¡¯re gonna find it everywhere here now right?¡±.¡°Oh yeah, I know.¡±, he replied.As they chatted on they had changed course to head shoreward again.Looking for a spot for the night.They could travel on, not having to worry about traffic was very reassuring.But there was still other worries, errant logs, icebergs maybe this far north, sudden squalls, that debris field from a while ago.Will never did discover where it came from or where it went.Nope, anchoring by shore was the best for them right now.Far enough off to avoid rocks and shoals, but near enough to gain protection in case of any kind of aquatic vindictiveness.And this way the crew could have a nice relaxing dinner, without someone standing watch at the helm.


    The shore came close in the dim light and they reduced speed as they travelled along the coast.The beach was pretty featureless, just snow and ice.The occasional pile of rocks, driftwood and dried float weed.Ahead something looked promising.A large, absolutely monolithic pile of glacial rocks had been tumbled at the shore heading out at least a hundred yards out to sea.They could anchor on the windward side and be protected for the night.That way if the anchors did let go they would just drift out to sea, not toward the shore.Sea¡­it was hard not to use that term in his log.It was out to lake, no that didn¡¯t even sound right.Lakeward, again nope.It had to be out to sea, anything else was just not right.


    ¡°Hellooo, are you in there?¡±, blinking he found Minnie staring into his eyes, from about three inches away.¡°Oh hello sweety, I was just mulling things.¡± he said.She nodded ¡°Oh I know the look, it¡¯s okay, I got you.¡±.He pointed ahead ¡°Bring us to about thirty yards of the big rock, on the other side though.¡±.She just looked at him, ¡°Which big rock, the green one with a grey top, or the grey one with the green streaks, or the hundred other big ones?¡±.Hmmm, ¡°When you put it like that, just take us to the other side and pick a spot, I trust you.¡±.


    Coming up to the huge pile of rocks leading out to sea, they motored around the end, then back down the windward side.Minnie brought them to a stop and hopped out to help Will drop anchors.Both rattled down a long way, at least two hundred feet before hitting bottom.The chains angled out as the Rose drifted a few yards, pulling the chains until the anchors found good purchase far below.They cranked the windlass a few times to stress the chain and check the grip, they were holding strong.Minnie went back into the wheelhouse and shut everything down.Radiator to low, checked the wood stove was out.Gathered her belongings and packed them into her side bag.Standing on the bow with Will the sun was going down and the view of the huge rocks behind was spectacular.Ice had formed in long drifts down the side in places, long hanging icicles that had formed over the years.Continually forming and breaking when the weight was too much.In places the rock had been cracked by the pressure and had flaked and broken into piles disappearing into the water below.¡°Pretty cool dad, maybe I¡¯ll sketch this tomorrow before we leave, then other people can look at it too.¡±, Minnie said.Will thought that was a great idea, ¡°We could put a bunch of your pictures in a book, let people see our travels.¡±.


    They continued talking about that idea on the way down below.Hanging up their coveralls, sliding boots onto the wooden drying rack, they put on the warm felt slippers and followed their noses to the galley.Minnie was telling Naomi about the idea of making a book of their travels.¡°We thought we could all work on it, you and dad could write the story, I could do some pictures.¡±.The young girl thought this was a great idea.¡°Bring out one a year, so the little ones can get to know us and everyone can see they¡¯re part of a pretty big world, I love it.¡±, she said.Will had been helping out as they talked, setting the table in the mess this time.Salt and pepper, a jug of water and juice, pot of tea.Then Naomi brought out the two roasted birds, all golden skin and crispy.Not overly large but the two would easily feed the crew.Minnie brought in the taters in the hot cast iron skillet, then the carrots and peas.Will was carving and sorted out leg, breasts and thighs, until everyone¡¯s plate was full.Before they dove in he raised his mug, ¡°A toast to the hunters, thanks and this looks great.¡±.They clinked glasses and attacked.Between the good food and the good company the evening passed quickly.Dishes done, bones saved in the ice box for soup tomorrow, they retired to the lounge.As they played cards and relaxed Minnie was thinking about their travel book.¡°We need a name, like ¡®Minnie¡¯s Marvellous Memories¡¯, or maybe ¡®Naomi¡¯s Recollections¡¯, any ideas dad?¡±.At first Will was going to ask if they liked the name ¡®Old Man¡¯s Tale¡¯, then realized that was a bit silly and no one would like that.So they kept working on it until nothing had been settled but it was late enough to go to sleep.Thanking Naomi for her wonderful meal one more time, Will and Minnie nearly fell into bed and she was asleep near instantly.He had just one thought¡­


    Menu (All opened, new skill listed)


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 37/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 47/50


    Stamina 46/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Navigation 4


    Mechanic 3


    Mason 1


    Outdoor Chef 2


    Line Cook


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Lumberjack


    Hunter


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 7, has been adjusted now.Menu will show age as 17 in next update.


    Intelligence 20/25


    Strength 23/25


    Vitality 23/25


    Stamina 23/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Navigator 3


    Artist


    Piloting 3


    Mechanic 3


    Crab Catcher


    Shrimper


    Tinker


    Joker


    Arborist


    Labourer 1


    Lumberjack


    The skill sailor has been changed to Able Seaman,also the titleWatch Stander and Dayworker have been achieved.


    Hunter 1


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 35/50


    Strength 35/50


    Vitality 36/50


    Stamina 40/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Management 3


    Kitchen Artist


    Cooking 4


    Homemaker 3


    Arborist 1


    Labourer 1


    Piloting


    Lumberjack


    The skill probationary sailor has been changed to Able Seaman, also the title Watch Stander and Dayworker have been achieved.


    Hunter 1


    Nice, he thought before dropping off, we¡¯re all hunters now.

 Rocks and Shoals

    Chapter 34. Rocks and Shoals


    The next morning Minnie was on deck early and sketching the impressive rocks.Naomi was with her and would write a description of where it was and when the crew had come across it.When they had a goodly amount Will was planning to edit it together into a book and take it to the bookseller at Newton.Right now there was a bit of an argument going on, Minnie was saying that Naomi¡¯s description of her picture was too bland, not exciting enough.Naomi was right back at her saying that not every picture was was exciting.It was a wonderful area with many things to sketch, however it was just a bunch of rocks.Will was puttering on deck and had actually remembered to bait and lower three crab pots, just to see what wouldhappen.Minnie noticed and came over to ask what was happening, argument forgotten.¡°Just seeing if we can get a few crabs, right kind of area anyway.¡±, he pointed to the rocks, ¡°We¡¯ll see in a couple of hours anyway.¡±.


    She looked down at the black cold water, ¡°This is too different from the nice friendly water near Laketown, we can just jump in there and swim around for hours, here it¡¯s just brrr, I¡¯d freeze my tail if I went in there.¡±.Naomi stood beside her, ¡°I¡¯m sorry I called you a furry idiot Minnie.¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°That¡¯s okay, I¡¯m sorry for calling you a skinny numpty and a bad hair girl with dumb long legs like a crab.¡±. Will was nearly bug eyed in trying not to laugh, where did she come up with it.


    While they had been working , Will had been fishing.But his luck was still bad, not even a nibble.He was sure if Minnie or Naomi threw in a line the fish would be happy to come aboard, but not him lately.One more long cast toward the huge rock wall and then it was time to get moving again.Then, remembering the crab pots, started lifting them.They felt heavy as he hauled them up,he could just see it now, steamed crabs for dinner.Nothing.¡°Not even one little guy, huh dad?¡±, said Naomi.Minnie just laughed ¡°Next time we¡¯ll drop them, for sure to get some then.¡±.He just sighed.Will was going to take first watch and so Minnie went below to set the boiler heating and check the coal supply in the auto feed bins.As soon as she gave him the good word, Naomi and he cranked up the anchors, hit the throttle to half full, and off they went again.South.They were still many days away from home port but it was getting closer.Keeping one eye ahead and one eye on the compass a couple of hours passed.The coast was pretty much the same, spruce trees and snow.


    Looking at the horizon to the west he wondered if there was anything that way.If this was indeed an analog of his old world, the they were just leaving Alaska and coming down the upper British Colombia coast.That could mean that the Hawaiian islands were to the far west.Maybe next year, he thought.He was sure that both Newton and Laketown would need coal, maybe iron and copper too.Hopefully Laketown has completed their barges now, then perhaps a logging run for them too.It was mostly rolling farmland and orchards around them, but he hadn¡¯t really explored around much.For all he knew there might be forests near, probably not considering Stephen had mentioned logging to him.Naomi¡¯s casual remarks about wagon driving made him think it was farming mostly.But firewood had to come from somewhere, there was much he didn¡¯t know about their society.If Naomi wasn¡¯t too busy later he would have to ask her.However that could wait, it was tea time.Busying with kettles and teapot for a few minutes, then taking his hot mug outside to enjoy the afternoon sun.Looking landward there were some really heavy clouds building, this warm break was over soon.


    Sure enough, an hour later the bad weather was back.Wind, rough water, heavy snow. Minnie had joined him and they were enjoying the bread and cheese she brought up for a snack.No matter where she was, her pockets or side bag, toolbox or tool pouch, there was always a few biscuits wrapped up in a cloth. Or a couple of pieces of bread and butter, used to be hard boiled eggs too, but not lately.¡°We going to tie up for the night, or keep going out of this?¡±, she asked as a particularly high wave smacked the bow nearly under for a second.Fighting her way back up the icy blue-green water cascaded over the sides.Will had one hand on the wheel, easily holding her on course, teacup in the other.¡°I think we¡¯re gonna keep going, but what do you think?¡±, he replied.Naomi came clattering into the wheelhouse at that moment.¡°Holy moly it¡¯s bad out there, we going to keep going or anchor up?¡±, she gasped out.Dripping wet, it looked like ice wasforming all ready.Minnie helped her to sit, peeling off the wet layers.¡°You sure picked a bad time to come up, you got splashed bad, warm up by the fire.¡±.Will saw she had been soaked by that last wave, good thing there were lots of blankets in here.Right through her coveralls, woollen pants and shirt too.¡°Get a cuppa into you too, warm you up.¡±, he added.Naomi had stripped to her shift, luckily that had stayed dry, then wrapped up like a moth in blankets.¡°Brrrr, that was horrible, I hope I don¡¯t get a sniffle, or worse.¡±, she managed finally, ¡°That waters cold.¡±.


    ¡°Reminds me of the time mom and I went rafting.¡±, Will said, ¡°It was like liquid ice, great time though.¡±.Minnie looked at him, ¡°You went in on purpose?Are you nuts, was mom?¡±.He adjusted course, they had been knocked off of their line a bit.¡°It was an adventure.You dress in rubber clothes, a helmet and life jacket.¡±, he said, ¡°Then ride little boats down a wild river.¡±.Naomi shook her head.¡°Only you dad.¡±.Laughing he remembered out loud ¡°Then we rode a bus back to town, had a great meal then back to our camp and passed out in bed.¡±.Minnie had only got someof that, what was a bus, rubber clothes?Back to camp¡­dad was weird, sounds like mom was too.¡°We went back and did it again, couple of years later.It was harder on us, we could hardly walk when we finished the trip, no regrets though.¡±.¡°Could we do something like that, it does sound kinda fun.¡±, Minnie asked.Will shook his head, ¡°The boats were made of rubber, or latex maybe.You inflated them with air, if they hit a rock they just bounced.¡±.Naomi thought this sounded pretty dangerous indeed. ¡°I think I¡¯d be too scared.¡±.Her temperature had come back up and she felt better.She had been face to face with a wall of green water, doing that again, on purpose was not going to happen.


    Minnie looked outside, cranking the wiper to clear the ice snow mix off of the window for a minute.¡°I think we should just run with it, finding a harbour will be tough.Going too near the coast isn¡¯t a good idea.¡±, she said.Will nodded, ¡°Okay, let¡¯s give it a couple hours and see what¡¯s up then.¡±.He fed couple of split logs into the stove, the cold had come back with a vengeance.It was leaching it¡¯s way in, under doors, through gaps.This time a damp cold, not like around the burrows.There it was a dry cold,sucking the moisture out of everything.It didn¡¯t help that Naomi¡¯s gear was soaked with salt water, but it should dry quickly hanging near the stove.Will was wearing his coveralls as was Minnie, but opened to the waist with the sleeves tied around, boots still on too.Just in case they needed to go outside in a hurry.¡°I hope not, it¡¯s pretty icky outside.¡±, Minnie said, resting her forehead on the glass.¡°Let¡¯s just stay in here for a while, we are either pulling away from bad weather or directly into it.¡±, Will mused.¡°Nice, any idea which one?¡±, Naomi asked.¡°Nope, but it¡¯s definitely one or the other.¡±, Will laughed. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Three hours later it had proven to be that they had headed into bad weather.Still rough seas, windy as all-get-out, and the snow¡­thick wet snow lashing down.Perhaps the most miserable weather they had encountered.Naomi and Minnie were going below, to refresh for a bit, prepare some food, more substantial than the few leftover biscuits in the tin.Nothing hot though, too rough to cook in.But a couple of cheese sandwiches, smoked sausage, nice crunchy carrots, and some preserved fruit would be nice.Watching for a lull in the waves, they were dressed and ready to zip out.¡°And go.¡±, called Will.Holding the door open behind them, he watched as they scrambled along deck and made it down below safely.No trips or splashes this time.¡°Next time we come this far, in this bad weather we¡¯re going to have a covered walkway .¡±, he told the ship as she climbed yet another wave.Now that he thought of it he had to write it down, in the to do section.That done he had something else planned, that he could only do while alone.Christmas presents!


    In a secret notebook he had written what he was getting for Minnie and Naomi.As it was their first Christmas together it should be something special.He had racked his brain, whenever he had a chance to think about it.There was a skipping rope for both.He had worked on these for a couple of weeks now.Finely braided rope, polished wooden handles.Carved roses adorned the handles, not too deep but enough to give a good grip.A sled for Minnie, iron runners for high speed down hills, room for a passenger too.He hadn¡¯t been sure if Naomi would have wanted one, she didn¡¯t like the cold much.For her he had put together a book of recipes from his old world.What the food was and how to prepare it.From apple crisp to pizza, olliebollen to cheeseburgers.Anything and everything he could remember.Any other presents would have to wait until they got to Newton.For the candy store, he had an idea about candy canes, if the confectioner could make candy sticks then surely he could give them a bend, to hang on the tree.Ah, tree ornaments.He had cut a few shapes out of copper.Small stars, snowmen, candy canes, circles with holes punched in them and tied loops of wire to hang them with, some had been painted red, blue, and of course yellow.He couldn¡¯t wait to decorate the waiting tree.Unfortunately there was no colourful paper aboard to make garland with, so again that would have to wait.If they got there in the next week surely he could pick up what he needed however ¡®time and tide wait for no one¡¯.Better to plan with what they had, rather than depend on something that might not happen.Thinking back to the tree again he remembered something his father had told him.Before electric lights to decorate with they had used candles.In small especially made holders, candles would be clipped to branches and lit.He wondered if they could do something like that, only use it a couple of times because it¡¯s a waste to burn up candles for nothing.There was quit a supply of tin aboard, in sheets of varying thickness, it would be fairly easy to cobble something together.But they could all work on that, Minnie was a skilled tinkerer.It would not be difficult.


    All this was written down, list¡¯s made and checked off.While the water and the weather raged outside.And was it ever, the wave height had increased to forty feet easily.Will had heard that the North Sea, in the old world, could get to 65 feet on a regular day in the winter months.He had even read about a rogue wave 85 feet high, on an offshore oil rig.So what they had right now was quite enough thank you.The voice tube whistled and made him start.It was Minnie, ¡°Dad, it¡¯s too rough for us to bring anything up to you, Naomi tried but dumped everything on the stairs, are you okay?¡±.She sounded worried.¡°I¡¯m fine sweety, you guys stay below please, it¡¯s pretty bad.The decks are drenched every time we hit a new wave.You would be soaked in minutes.¡±.¡°You can make tea right, you¡¯ll be okay if you have tea.¡±, she asked.He looked over, the water cask was topped off and he had plenty of kindling for the firebox.The kettle was fitted tightly into a wire clamp on the hob.¡°Oh yea, I¡¯m all set.¡± he answered.With a crash the Rose broached over a wave and started down the other side, water running off the deck.It was pretty exhilarating.It was a good thing that he had remembered to light the fore lantern, the afternoon was nearly gone and with it the meagre daylight that had made it through the snow.But keeping to their previous course would be safe, not running aground anywhere.


    Two hours later, as timed by the watch in its special case, the water was finally subsiding.The towering waves had gone down to what they were more used to.Eight to ten foot heaves were liveable.Wind dying down, still heavy wet snow but it wasn¡¯t being driven so hard.Naomi and Minnie had come up with a tray, finally able to make it.Themeal was very appreciated, it had been a long time since breakfast.He told them of his plan to make a covered secure walkway, from the stairs to the wheelhouse.Both thought it a good idea, and Minnie had helped by sketching it out several different ways.Each rendition had tiny people fishing, or skating on the deck, swimming alongside the boat and even riding sharps and whales.It hadn¡¯t taken her very long and they did eventually choose what they were going to build, weather providing and if they had the lumber aboard.


    As the weather had finally started cooperating they had steered closer to shore, to anchor for the night.Trying to find an anchorage reminded Will of trying to find a parking spot at the mall.This one was too far, this one didn¡¯t have enough room, and so on.A bit of protection from the wind would be nice, if not the deck would be a solid block of snow by the morning.One had eventually been found, by luck mostly.Again it was a huge glacial errant jutting out into the lake, easily eight hundred feet.Will couldn¡¯t imagine the force needed to tumble the block of solid granite into the water.Lucky for them it was there, and the boat was secured in the lee for the night.Dropping anchors had been a real treat as was walking the deck to do a final check.Will sighed at the thought of one final thing, pumping out the bilge.With the amount of water that had run across her decks it was guaranteed that some had made it into the holds and then down to the bilge.It was better he tackled that right away, it would be pretty easy to put off after eating and warming up, nope it was right now.When he told Minnie and Naomi this had to be done the glares were epic.¡°Sorry guys, I¡¯ll go up top with the hose, stay here and work the pump, okay.¡±.That went over better, but now Minnie was worried about him, that he would get cold or fall in or¡­ ¡°I¡¯ll be fine sweetie don¡¯t borrow troubles.¡±, he said.


    It only took a short while to finish but the amount of water that poured was amazing.There must have been hundreds of gallons built up, Will had scheduled bilge cleaning once a week, but now it looked like it had to be twice a week at least.Oh well, he thought, things will be cleaner.Heading below the warmth felt great, he had got a bit soaked, but only with the wet blown snow, not the bilge water.That would have been, as Minnie would say, yuck.

 Peace of Mind

    Chapter 35.Peace of Mind


    The finalized plan was to construct an overhang onto the stair shed, to prevent snow from building against the doors.Also to block rain from getting down the steps.Then two handrails with uprights every six feet to hold a sharply slanted roof, better to keep snow and rain off.This would give the crew security walking to and from the wheelhouse, Will still remembered Minnie nearly getting washed overboard.Gates at either end for access to the main deck area, but the loss of the open space was trivial compared to the peace of mind this would grant everyone.Will and Minnie were doing a material list and then look at what they had.If it matched up then tomorrow was a building day, enough of this getting soaked every time it rained.¡°Or snows, having a nice safe path will be great.¡±, Naomi said, looking over their shoulder at the plans.¡°Why didn¡¯t the other guys do this, the old captains?¡±, Minnie asked.Will shrugged, ¡°Not sure but if I had to guess I¡¯d say they were just used to it and figured it was supposed to be this way.¡±.Rolling her eyes Minnie laughed ¡°Weirdos.¡±.


    In one of the Roses storerooms was lumber, lots of lumber.Will was old school, he kept the off cuts, mismatched pieces, all left over scrap.Nicely sorted, alongside the 2x4¡¯s, 4x4¡¯s, and so on, up to massive 10x12¡¯s.Planks to replace decking, handrails, finished pieces for window and portholes, doors, shakes for roofing.Racks and racks of wood, all tied in place, no rattling. One thing missing though, that was hard for him to do without, was sheets of wood.Plywood just hadn¡¯t been invented here yet.¡°Some things are much easier with 4x8¡¯s, building walls, framing rooms in houses.¡±, he told Minnie as they checked that they actually had enough material to build with.She helped by yawning, a long drawn out bone tired yawn.¡°Boring you, am I?¡±, he asked.¡°Nah, it¡¯s just nice and warm, and it smells nice in here.Trees and stuff.¡±. she said.Back to business, they did have plenty for the project so tomorrow was planned to stay at anchor and get it done.Will knew his tools were in good shape, they had of course been cleaned and put back in the proper place last use.But he had to check anyway.Saws were sharp, hammers ready, wrenches rust free, planes and chisels sharp, everything was perfect.¡°Okay Min, let¡¯s go for dinner, Min?Hey where are you?¡±, no answer.Turning he found her draped over a pile of sacking, fast asleep.She looked so peaceful he felt bad for waking her, but if she missed dinner it would be worse.He bent down, patting her head and tousled her ears until she opened her eyes and stretched happily.¡°Hey dad, you all ready to work tomorrow then?¡±.Laughing he answered ¡°I am, don¡¯t want to go another foot until this is done, being safe.¡±.She stood and started up to the next deck, heading for the mess ¡°Glad we have enough lag bolts and brackets, nails and screws and stuff.¡±.He stopped dead.Minnie turned and looked ¡°You never checked the hardware, hinges and gate latches?¡±, shaking her head in sorrow, she climbed back down to where he was standing.¡°Let¡¯s go, back to the storeroom.¡±.Well, he thought, I¡¯m sure we have enough.At that moment he could hear his dad ¡®you¡¯re sure huh, go make sure¡¯.¡°Hey, I am over 75, give me a break, be nice to the old guy.¡±, he complained.It only took a short while to check that they did have enough fasteners to put the walkway together, and the were back up to the mess hall.Tonight Naomi had made a stew with salt beef and canned vegetables.Actually glass jars of veggies, but canned sounded better.However it was made, it smelled great as did the fresh bread too.


    He had just sat down and was starting to serve, when Naomi asked ¡°Do I hear you forgot something hmmm?¡±.He turned to Minnie with accusing eyes, but she was just drawing in her latest book, all innocent.¡°Nope, didn¡¯t forget anything, why do you ask, did someone say something?¡±.Naomi stifled a giggle when Minnie still just looked at the ceiling, counting cracks and knots in the wooden beams.¡°Well, I thought someone did say you were getting forgetful and that she had to take charge in case you just wandered off into the water.¡±.¡°Oh, I don¡¯t know who that could have been, do you Minnie?¡±, he turned to glare at her, with a wink to Naomi first.¡°Oh fine,¡± Minnie said with a laugh ¡°It was me who said you needed watching, you forgot to see if we had enough nails, you never forget that so you¡¯re getting old now, off to your rocking chair.¡±.Well a rocking chair did sound pretty good, but he didn¡¯t think he could build one, he remembered a movie where someone was trying.But it didn¡¯t work out.¡°Sorry guys, no rocking chair, you¡¯re stuck with me for a while longer.¡±, he said.Turning his attention back to the stew he served himself a large helping.Then to Minnie he put about a teaspoons worth on her plate.She gasped, ¡°Noooo, not that, I¡¯m sorry you¡¯re old.¡±.To make up for it Naomi served her a nice steaming heap.Minnie attacked her plate right away, just in case Will made a move.All he did was slice the fresh bread and offer a piece to Minnie, she looked at him, took the bread.¡°Why you smiling like that dad, I¡¯m kinda scared now.¡±, she said.Will laughed, he couldn¡¯t hold it back.¡°No worries sweetie.¡±.


    After dinner they retired to the lounge.The Christmas tree was still undecorated but would be in a few days, he didn¡¯t like to do that before December first.He still wanted to figure out some kind of tree topper too, it just wouldn¡¯t be the same.Minnie and Naomi were playing crib, he had begged off to journal for a while.Then join in after he had his thoughts written.The boat log didn¡¯t take long, not a lot happened, just cruising along.He had a diary as well, he had written in it sporadically since getting aboard.At first it was just the things that were were happening to him and Minnie, then it was what he missed from the old world.Things he looked forward to, that he planned to do, things he had done.Just a long rambling blurb of his life.Then more writing in his to-do book, about building tomorrow, hoping the weather allowed it.Christmas planning, meals and so on, the night before.He was in a lucky position, or maybe it was unlucky.Any tradition he started would be the only one, no variation from other influences.One problem he had was that if he couldn¡¯t remember the poem ¡®The Night Before Christmas¡¯, then no one could.He used to read it to his children, then grandchildren, years on it was just the two of them, then the last Christmas had just been Minnie and him.Writing it down he found he had gotten mixed up a bit from other stories, but it worked out eventually.There was a vague plan swirling around in his head to get Minnie to draw the poem out, that one and a few songs in a book for the crew.Another tradition maybe.


    His musings were interrupted by a cup of tea out down, on the table beside his notebooks.¡°Hey thanks, I was nearly done with all this.¡±.Naomi just laughed and patted his shoulder, ¡°We know, we counted the books you wrote in, that one was always last.¡±.Minnie was snuffling the deck ready for another game, Will had a thought, ¡°Want to try a new game? If I can remember the rules that is.¡±.Minnie was interested and so was Naomi.So now he was shuffling two decks and explaining the rules for Canasta.He¡¯d played it for years, he and his wife.There were two versions, a four player where you are in teams, and the one they were playing.A long game, kinda frustrating at times, but still fun.It took a couple of tries, to get going in the game, to figure out the rules but they eventually got it.Not something they would play every night, but on some occasions definitely.Naomi hit the 7500 point mark first and won the game, jumping up from her chair with a whoop of glee.Minnie was close, Will not very.The cards had not been kind.¡°Well done sweetie, well done.¡±, he applauded.Minnie chimed in with ¡°Go you, I¡¯ll get you next time though.¡±.After tidying their lounge, they shut off the lights and repaired to the cabins for the night.Naomi to read as was her custom, Minnie was going to visit with her for a bit, so it was a solitary Will who climbed into his cold bed.¡°Awww, forgot again.¡±.He did the walk of shame to the galley, hot water bottles in hand.As he passed Naomi¡¯s cabin the door quickly opened and a laughing Minnie tossed another to him.It didn¡¯t take long to fill all three with piping hot water, drop off one then back to his cabin.Arranging them in the huge bed then off to the head.A few minutes passed then he climbed into the now toasty sheets, at least the bottom was.The radiators kept the room warm enough but he enjoyed having warm feet to sleep.But, finding the icy cold water bottle in the early morning was not so much fun.Especially because Minnie¡¯s was high in the bed, so sometimes it got kicked into his stomach.A very rude awakening.He drifted off quickly tonight, quite content in his thoughts.Nothing to stress or worry about.And looking forward to getting on the tools tomorrow.He stirred a little when Minnie came in later, but not fully awake.Mumbling goodnight and love you he felt her cuddle up and knew nothing more.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    The next morning came and it was a nice day.Not windy, warmish, snow stopped.The Rose was rocking gently at anchor.Will was on deck at first light, tea mug in hand.Just gazing out to sea, at the near coast, the monstrous boulder protecting them.Desolate definitely but beautiful nonetheless.¡°I can¡¯t imagine living here dad, just too cold for me and you right, maybe Naomi too.¡±, Minnie said beside him.He jumped, not realizing she had come up too.¡°Oh hi there, when did you wake up, hmmm?¡± Will asked.¡°Lil while ago, I knew you¡¯d be up here.Dying to start building huh.¡± she laughed, looking over at the ready tool bag.¡°Yup, but not yet.Just relaxing, thinking, planning.¡± he answered, gesturing at the coast with his mug.¡°I liked that small island we stopped at for a couple of days, we should use it as a forward base.Leave a bunch of supplies there, just in case.¡±.Minnie liked that idea, so of course that was written in the to-do book.What to leave there, in a cave or a cairn, nothing that would be damaged by freezing.¡°So just oatmeal then, sounds horrible dad.¡±, said Naomi who had just joined them, ¡°I like the stuff, but you need more than that for a survival cache, thing, whatever it is.¡±.¡°What about waterproof barrels, underwater where they wouldn¡¯t freeze.Tie them to an anchor, down deep, bobber on top or chained to shore.Might work?¡±, Minnie wondered aloud.¡°Try a few different things maybe.¡±, said Will.After going below for toast and cheese, a nice light breakfast they came back up on deck to start construction.


    Well, he thought, heightened strength really helps when you¡¯re building something.Watching Minnie and Naomi effortlessly driving 8 inch spikes, cranking lag bolts tight, tossing 4x4¡¯s like toys, they made it look easy.He had reasoned that the hardest part of building without power tools was going to be cutting with handsaw¡¯s or drilling.Nope.He could cut the thickest beam easily.Perhaps not as quick as a chop saw could, but it was pretty easy going.The wood they had decided to use, and they¡¯d had on hand was white oak.Hard, tough and very water resistant.Nothing like the heartwood but there was none to be found in their stores.The completed walkway curved around the stair shed, then straight to the stairs leading up to the wheelhouse.Six feet wide with four feet high sides, not solid but with close spaced stringers.Openings allowing water to run out, quarter inch ribs had been fastened every foot to give purchase if the deck was too wet, and of course the peak roof slanting down on both sides.A steep pitch to keep snow and ice from building up.He hadn¡¯t bothered with gutters, not enough sheet tin and bending was a pain without the proper tools.It had been frustrating enough figuring out the way to extend the roof over the stairs leading up to the wheelhouse door.Minnie and Naomi were smaller people but Will was well over six feet and didn¡¯t really want to bash his head on the overhead.Worked out eventually and now they had a safe passage to and from the wheelhouse.No more danger of being swept overboard.


    ¡°Hey dad¡±, Minnie called from where she was sitting on the roof hammering the shakes on. ¡°When did you do this?¡±.Will climbed up the ladder and joined her.¡°When did I do what?¡±, he asked.She pointed at the gable roof of the stair shed.There were various roses carved into the wood, vines coiling around, through and over, down the edges and burrowing into the deck.Seeing this took Will aback for a bit.¡°I never did that, I was in a bit of a hurry building this, remember?¡±, he said.And looking at the building he noticed something else a bit off.The joints where he had butted beams against each other, for the sake of time and need,were now tightly mitred, the edges nearly invisible they were so precise.¡°Well, I guess the Rose needed to improve on my work. ¡°, was all he could say.¡°Looks better though.¡±, Naomi added, she had also climbed up to get a closer view.Now that he took a closer look at the entire structure he could see where improvements had been made, very slowly over the past weeks.To the point that the the craftsmanship was as perfect as the rest of the boat.¡°I guess she wasn¡¯t happy until the final touch was put on.¡±, Naomi laughed.Minnie thought this was delightful, but made an effort to keep her nail lines straight as she hammered the wooden shingles on.¡°Don¡¯t wanna tick off the boat.¡±, she grinned.Will agreed one hundred percent.It only took an hour and the last shingle was on and solid.The last thing to do would have to wait.A coat or two of linseed oil would waterproof the wood further and protect from sun and wind as well.But the temperature was too low, that would have to wait until the reached warmer climes.The brass hinges and gate latches were lightly oiled to keep them from binding in the icy weather.


    As the crew packed up the tools, and scrap lumber, then swept the deck clean of sawdust they surveyed the work with satisfaction.They were making the Rose their own, not just a working boat.Not anymore, this was their pride and joy, their home for years to come.And as they sat and relaxed, the warmish weather that had helped the building day seemed to be coming to an end. ¡°We caught a good break from the weather today, but you can see it¡¯s starting to sock over again.¡±, Will mentioned.The light was dimming early as usual but snow clouds were beginning to thicken and the wind had picked up.Minnie reached out and caught an errand flake and watched it melt on her palm, ¡°Winters okay, mostly, but I sure miss the sun.¡±.Naomi curled her arm over Minnie¡¯s small shoulders ¡°Pretty soon we¡¯ll be having water fights with the little guys, barbecuing on the bow and all the shrimp we can eat.¡±.Will nodded, ¡°Couple of weeks more and we¡¯ll be docked at Laketown, just in time for Christmas.¡±.That perked Minnie up and as they carried everything back below for the night the sound of her singing ¡®Rudolph the reindeer¡¯ echoed over the lake.

 There it Goes Again

    Chapter 36There it Goes Again


    Again the land to the far north of the Rose was shaking.Something was unsettled in the depths and was taking its time resolving the usual balance.The new inland sea and the heartwood tree were safe, it was far far inland from there.In and around the all encompassing mountains that both protected and imprisoned the lands on either side, there were rockslides.Sometimes great chunks of the mountains would crack off and wreak havoc below.Crashing down in a tumble of snow and rock, hundreds, sometimes thousands of feet down.Creating a jagged tumble at the foot of the peaks, sometimes continuing on down the snow covered slopes.Causing miles long avalanches that tumbled the rocks far from their starting point.Every quake was resolving the problem below, but were all the smaller shakes, rattles and rolls signs it was coming to an end, or a sign something bigger was coming?Time would tell.


    The next few days were very unremarkable aboard the Rose.Cards were played, sometimes charades too.Late at night, when the boat was bobbing at anchor, you could hear laughter, sometimes indignant shouts.Dinners were prepared, mostly fish now, sometimes salt beef or salt pork.Ham and bacon were just fond memories now, the last of the smoked sausage was gone too.Canned fruit and vegetables were down to a couple of days.Bread making¡¯s were still ample, as was oatmeal.Plenty of jam too and syrups.Laketown was excellent at all methods of preserving fruit.Root vegetables were down to a couple of meals, potatoes and carrots but for some reason there were lots of turnips. Minnie and Naomi despised them in every form, Will enjoyed them but not too often.¡°If it¡¯s about a week to Newton, and two weeks to Laketown, which one should we plan for?¡± Will asked one morning.Minnie shrugged, working on oatmeal with large dollops of strawberry jam.¡°Don¡¯t matter to me dad, you know that.¡±, she answered.Naomi thought for a bit ¡°I do miss my sister and friends back in Laketown, but we need a resupply.Let¡¯s go to Newton.¡±.Will agreed and the course was set.


    As they had been steaming southerly the weather had changed for the better.First wet snow, then freezing rain, after that was just rain.There seemed to be an invisible line that, after the boat crossed it, kept the truly bad weather away.Mile after mile the wind warmed up too, from freeze your face solid, to ¡®my that¡¯s nice and brisk¡¯.The thick winter coveralls were still hung by the stairs but mostly unused.Boots, pants and rain jackets were fine now.Having the covered walkway to the wheelhouse was a huge quality of life improvement.It was easy to come and go if nature called, bring tea or snacks and to change shifts if required.Will, Minnie and Naomi had taken to setting their deck chairs up under the canopy and whiling away time just sitting and relaxing.And the days passed.


    Nearly three months to the day the Rose steamed into the Newton harbour.Pulling on the steam whistle to let the town know they¡¯re back.The weather was warm, blue skies and a mild wind.After the awful weather they had just survived this felt like heaven.Just like the first time the Rose had shown up after so many years, the townsfolk poured out onto the beach and streets near the quay.The barges sat empty in the same spot they had been tied to, finally unloaded.If they did a coal run soon Wills plan was to beach the barges, easier to unload that way.¡°How did they unload them anyway?¡±, Minnie asked.Will shrugged, ¡°I think they mentioned there was a team of people that would run up and fill buckets as long as they could, then get pulled back on a rope for safety.¡±.¡°That would take a long time, they should have gotten back to us sooner.¡±, Naomi pointed out. ¡°Yeah, but we couldn¡¯t wait forever for the council to make up its mind.¡±, Will added.And speak of the council, several carriages had begun to arrive at the lands end.People in red hats and scarfs piled out, Minnie was looking through her telescope and was pointing out the people she knew.¡°There¡¯s that Dave guy, and Samantha and Ed, some of the kiddies are edging out onto the quay, it¡¯s Harold and his sister in the front.Now some old guy is making sure they¡¯re safe, there¡¯s a lot of people around.He¡¯s wearing a hat and scarf too.¡±. Naomi was watching through another glass they had and nodded, ¡°A new councillor maybe, to replace Matt?¡±.I think they need an odd number of members, so votes can pass.¡±. Will said.He was surprised it had taken this long actually.


    The Rose was slowing as she passed through the slightly choppy water of Newton¡¯s bay, and as she reached the end of the quay the boat was barely making way.Will hopped off and tied up as Minnie floated her the last few yards in.As he tossed the fenders down between boat and dock he heard the engine stop.For the first time in a long time they were at a perfectly safe harbour, and if felt¡­ ¡°It feels weird dad, just sitting here tied up.¡±, Minnie said. As they hopped off the boat he could hear the enthusiasm of the crowd, even over the distance between them.Voices calling welcome back, young and old, Will could pick out some familiar ones.As ready as they could be the crew started off towards the lands end.When they were nearly on land the councillors had rushed forwards to greet them.The new person had turned out to be John, Matt¡¯s longtime partner. Dave shook hands all around as did Samantha, Gemma and Evelyn, ¡°So good to see you all back safely captain.¡±, said Dave.¡°It has been a long time Will, we were worried.¡±, Samantha added, ¡°Ed will be glad you¡¯re back too.¡±.John was holding back a bit from the water, makes sense Will thought, the older people are much more affected.


    He could feel that he was relaxing, winding down as it were, surrounded by friends.¡°It¡¯s great to be back, just great.We sure have some stories to tell.¡±.Minnie had seen friends in the crowd and gone to visit with them, shopkeepers she knew, some of the temporary crew.Naomi as well, she had seen Ed who had driven up on a massive supply wagon, and gone to chat.¡°We heard you signalling captain, a while ago,¡±, said Samantha, ¡°So we let the suppliers know, Ed rushed off to load up and, well here you are.¡±.Dave added ¡°It¡¯s been a while, we thought you would be short on some things.¡±.Naomi called over ¡°Short on most is a nice way to say it.¡±.Minnie added ¡°Out of everything is a better way, all I had for dinner was a crust of bread and a glass of water¡­lake water.¡±.Gemma glared at Will then laughed when Naomi said ¡°You did not, we had fish last night and you ate so much I thought you were going to pop.¡±.¡°Well yeah but the fish was crispy and crusty, and I tried some of dads tea, that was like lake water.¡± answered Minnie.After visiting for a short while it was decided the council would come aboard for dinner tonight.


    Will rode in the wagon as it was backed down the quay under Ed¡¯s skillful hands, there was quite a load of stuff .Minnie and Naomi had gone ahead and readied the hold for the goods.Two pallets waited on the dock but Will had to laugh when he looked in the wagon bed.All the bags of flour and salt, all the various crates of cheese, tubs of butter were all tied safely on new made pallets.A cargo net was wrapped around both for easy lifting.¡°Nice one,¡± Will said, gesturing at the pallets.Ed blushed a bit ¡°It¡¯s such a good idea, we use them all the time now.When we pick up from all the farms, saves lots of time loading.¡±, he pointed to the crane at the back of the wagon, also a new addition.¡°I meant to ask about that,¡±, said Will, ¡°Naomi mentioned wagon driving as a living, can you tell me a bit about it?¡±.Ed nodded eagerly.¡°There¡¯s a route the drivers travel, every few days.We pick up and drop all over the country, to the impassable areas and then back.¡±.Will pondered that for a moment, ¡°How did the ore gathering idea pan out?¡±. Ed shook his head ¡°We just can¡¯t get there, to where there a good amount.We go up the shore, as far as we can, and glean some small scraps.But nowhere near enough.¡±.Will sighed ¡°So a coal runs needed soon then, ore too?¡±.¡°Yes, but only if the crews up for it.Mom told me not to push for it.¡± the younger man replied.Will thought for a minute ¡°Couple of days and we will be good to go I think, but your mom and the others are coming over tonight, we¡¯ll let them know.¡±. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    It took a few minutes to unload the supplies into the hold.Ed told Will another wagon would come by tomorrow with the rest and to let mom know tonight what shortages they had.¡°Everything but oatmeal and fish.¡±, Minnie yelled up.¡°And toilet paper, we¡¯re nearly out.¡±, Naomi added from below.¡°Calm down you two, we¡¯re going shopping in a while, remember?¡± Will yelled back.¡°I¡¯ve got more interesting things to buy than toilet paper dad.¡±, Minnie said from behind Will, making him jump a bit.¡°That was quick.¡±, Will laughed.¡°Well you did mention shopping.¡±, said Naomi from his other side.He jumped again, ¡°How?¡±.She just shrugged ¡°I¡¯ll take Ed down, you guys get ready, might need the cart dad.¡±.Oh yeah, we¡¯ll definitely need the cart he thought.He held onto the crane rope and lowered down into the hold.Finding the shopping wagon took a minute but eventually he tied it to the crane, gave a tug and Minnie cranked him and the cart up on deck.¡°Woohoo.¡±, she said, ¡°Haven¡¯t seen that for a while, let¡¯s go fill it up.¡±.And again Minnie rode in the cart as Will ran down the quay, nearly beating Ed¡¯s team to the end, yelling in joy as he hit every bump possible.


    Meeting up with Naomi the question was ¡°Where to first?¡±.¡°How about tea and cakes over at Harold¡¯s moms tea house? Shop on the way too though.¡±, Will suggested.The other two agreed and they headed up the high street, one stop first though.Minnie had found a dairy stall and had bought a jug of fresh milk.She drank half at one gulp and let out a resounding belch, ¡°Oh yum.¡±.¡°Minnie, you got us all some milk, that''s wonderful, I missed it so much, lemme have a big drink.¡±, Will reached for her drink.¡°No way, this is mine, my precious.¡±, she clasped her jug to her chest.I knew I shouldn¡¯t have told her that story, Will thought, good thing we haven¡¯t finished it yet, I might have lost a finger.¡°Yeah it¡¯s still not my thing.¡±, he said.They continued on, stopping as this store had something of interest, then a stall that sold knickknacks.The clothier, Darren¡¯s, happened to be on their way and of course they stopped.Minnie ordered several pairs of one piece pyjamas, with feet, Will asked for two new sets of the winter coveralls, but with more leather reinforcement and with a thicker felt liner.¡°Not warm enough for you captain.¡±, he laughed.¡°They were plenty warm but they got pretty worn, wet, bloodied and just generally beat up.But they lasted and kept us warm in weather you would not believe,¡±.¡°Yeah thanks guy, kept us safe.¡± Minnie added.¡°No hurry on those mind you.¡±, said Will, ¡°We won¡¯t be going north for quite a few day, about a hundred.¡±, Will said.Darren nodded, ¡°They¡¯ll be ready captain, and I¡¯ll let James know you¡¯ll want new boots and gloves too, he¡¯s my brother you know.¡±.¡°Why don¡¯t you two work out of the same shop, save money on rent and taxes.¡±, Will asked.¡°I don¡¯t know what most of that is, money, rent or taxes, what are those?¡±, Darren said, puzzled.¡°Oh right, never mind any of that, but wouldn¡¯t it be easier to work together.¡± Will continued.Darren shook his head ¡°My brother and I get on well, but not that well, and our wives don¡¯t like each other much, they¡¯re sisters.¡±.¡°Ah well that explains it.¡±, Will said.After a few minutes longer, several items that each of them wanted, picking the perfect material and so on.Not really Will, he would happily wear plaid shorts and a bright blue shirt.So Naomi picked his colours with Minnie¡¯s advice.


    Darren promised that some of their orders would be ready in a few days, probably after returning from the coal run.¡°Small towns huh, everyone knows everything.¡± Naomi laughed.Continuing on their way, still stopping here or there, they finally made it to the tea house.Sally had seen the commotion as the crew made their way up the street and came to greet them at the door.¡°Welcome back, so good to see you all again, are you here for just tea and cakes, or perhaps a sandwich or two, I know how you like those grilled cheese, we borrowed the idea I hope you don¡¯t mind, but come in come in, let¡¯s find a nice seat in the garden.¡±, she bustled off, dragging the crew behind. After they were seated at a nice table in the warm sunshine, handy umbrellas keeping the light out of eyes, Sally went to get some fresh cakes after getting them all a glass of apple juice.¡°I guess she found her voice again huh.¡±, Minnie said.¡°Can you imagine family dinners here, between her and Harold, no one could get a word in.¡±, said Naomi with a giggle.Will had taken a drink and nearly spit it all over the table, just nearly though, he managed to drink it down with a gulp.The tray of cakes and the teapot was very welcome when Sally dropped it off.You could make cakes and desserts without eggs and butter, and they had done so for months now.But they sure had been missed.Minnie had devoured petit-fours, fairy cakes, strawberry tarts, cream slices and now sat in happy bliss, still clutching her milk jug, refilled by Sally.Will had eaten his fair share as had Naomi.When Will asked about Harold he was told a detailed story about how it was Harold¡¯s turn to work at the dairy farm, churning butter and milking cows.¡°He loves it, well he loves most things, he¡¯s always been a very happy boy, eager to help and easy to please.¡±, Sally laughed.


    After signing the credit chit they carefully placed a box containing cakes for later on top of the cart.The tea house was at the top of the shopping district and now they headed back to the quay area along the other road of shops.This time it was the bookstore, the boot and glove shop, various kiosks selling knives or belt buckles, fishing gear and rope, anything you could imagine.In the boot store Will was showing James his ideas for warmer boots.The leather ones had lasted but hadn¡¯t quite been warm enough.Now the cobbler was working on a much larger leather outer shell with several quilted felt liners inside.And much higher to prevent snow getting in and down.¡°Won¡¯t these be a bit clumsy to wear, they¡¯re so thick, is it really that cold?¡±, he asked.Will nodded. ¡°Colder than you could imagine.¡±.James also promised to have them ready in one hundred days, for the next trip north.¡°It¡¯s going to be much colder than last time, right at the end of their winter, so three pairs for each of us.¡±, said Will.¡°No worries captain, they¡¯ll be ready.¡± James promised.The last place they stopped at was of course the candy shop.The long wooden counter with large glass jars full of various hard candies, wooden trees holding lollipops, glass cases full of sugar plums, miniature cakes and iced candies.Still no chocolate though, but a new soft cream candy had come out.All different flavours from caramel to peppermint, delectable was an understatement.They ended up buying the entire stock and would be back for more tomorrow.


    The sun was dimming now and while there were a few lanterns lighted outside of some buildings, and down by the quay, most of the town was darkening too.Will had to skip the bookstore, that would be tomorrow.It was time to get back on board and get ready for the councils dinner.¡°I hope they bring ribs and steaks and pork chops and ham, milk too and carrots and not turnips.¡±.Will laughed, ¡°I hope so too, been a while since we have had a barbecue.¡±.

 Grilling, Absolutely Grilling

    Chapter 37.Grilling, absolutely Grilling.


    True to their word the councils carriages drew up to the quay a short while after sundown.There had been a busy time when the crew had returned to the Rose.Firstly the ships lanterns were refilled.Their huge reservoirs gulped down oil but were finally full and lighted.¡°It¡¯s been a while since they were on, been short on oil.¡±, Will remarked to no one in particular.Minnie had been with him, helping with cleaning the thick globes that protected the wicks, but had left to fill the lower deck ones when the upper deck was done.After the lanterns Will swept off the deck and as he looked around he could still see traces of blood from the sharps, the deck had been awash with it and it had soaked in.¡°A good cleaning tomorrow sweetie.¡±, Will said, patting the handrail, ¡°And a good hull check, see if you need careening.¡±.He was startled by a slight laugh behind, quickly turning he found Minnie and Naomi dressed in clean caftans.¡°Does she answer back dad.¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°Cause I talk to her sometimes too, in the wheelhouse or when I¡¯m dropping off to sleep.¡±.Will sighed ¡°You too huh, she¡¯s a fantastic boat, our floating home is.¡±.¡°When it¡¯s just me in the galley I talk aloud too, or sing to her.I think she likes it, just a feeling.¡±, Naomi added.¡°Now go below and get cleaned up, we got guests soon.Minnie laid out a long grey robe for you, have a wash too.¡± Naomi continued.¡°Why a grey robe Min?¡±, Will asked, knowing the answer already.¡°You¡¯re not ready for the white one, not wise enough.¡± Minnie answered, ¡°Besides if you¡¯re cooking then it will get icky unless you wear an apron, wait a sec, that''s a good idea, I¡¯ll grab an apron for you, me too, and hang it up by the grill.¡±.And she was off.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Will to get tidied up and in his clean robe.True to her word there were three aprons hanging by the grill, which just happened to have been cleaned up after it¡¯s long siesta.The weather being so mild again Will had figured to eat under the stars and the three had brought up tables and chairs from their cavernous store rooms.The ones used by the temporary crew, when they dined ashore.Light from the mid deck lantern gave the boat a cosy feeling.And with a clatter three carriages arrived at the quays end, or beginning, depending on point of view.The four familiar figures climbed out of the first, aides out of the other two carrying trays, packages and crates.Will rang the dinner bell on the stern and Minnie bolted up the stairs, quickly followed by Naomi.¡°Haha got here first, slowpoke.¡±, Minnie laughed.Naomi looked a bit miffed ¡°Only because you shut the stairwell doors behind you after you tripped me in the galley.¡±.¡°Wasn¡¯t me, it was the gremlins.¡±, Minnie answered smartly.¡°Wait, what, we have gremlins now.¡± Will asked.They were walking down to meet the waiting throng, ¡°Maybe, they¡¯re the guys that do bad stuff and other nice, sweet, kind little dog girls get blamed, right?¡±, Minnie replied.Naomi snorted indignantly ¡°No such thing as gremlins, it was you.¡±.This continued into they had walked the fifty yards down to the patiently waiting guests.


    ¡°Welcome, welcome, good to see you all again, shall we board?¡±, Will greeted them all.With Naomi at the front leading the porters and aides with their loads, Minnie in the middle chatting with Gemma and Evelyn, and Will at the rear with Dave and Samantha and of course Ed.¡°No John tonight, I think I know why though.¡±, Will asked, ¡°The idea of being on the water too much?¡±.Dave nodded ¡°That¡¯s it exactly Will, he wanted too but just couldn¡¯t in the end.¡±.¡°How did you know, that was the reason?¡±, Ed asked.¡°We encountered some people, the older members of their tribe couldn¡¯t be near the lake.¡±, Will answered.There would be time enough later to tell the whole story.¡°I¡¯d like to still have a meet up with John though, just to catch up.Maybe meet up tomorrow for a bite in town, noontime.¡±,he continued.Samantha nodded, ¡°An excellent idea, he goes to Martha¡¯s most days, tea and cakes for his middays.¡±.It was decided to meet up tomorrow, the other two would let John know.Will only had one problem ¡°I have no idea where Martha¡¯s is, or what it is.¡±.¡°That¡¯s the name of the tea house at the end of Ship Road, at the top.¡±, Gemma told him.¡°Oh I see, we were there today actually, didn¡¯t know it¡¯s name though.¡±, he laughed.


    The group had reached the Rose, Minnie pulled the stairs down with a creak and a splash.Everyone carefully climbed aboard, deposited their burdens on the waiting tables.On their shopping trip today, and with their speedy resupply, the Roses stores had been replenished nicely.Dave took the lid off one of the large trays and made Minnie¡¯s day complete.Thick beef steaks, meaty ribs and fat sausages, all waiting to be put on the barbecue.¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind Will but I built my own, just like yours.I¡¯ve been cooking everything and well, we love it.It¡¯s become a bit of a craze here.¡±, Dave said a bit bashfully.Will gave a booming laugh ¡°That¡¯s wonderful, you¡¯ll have to give me a hand, let¡¯s get to the grill.¡±.Together the two of them, Ed made three, went to start the barbecue heating.Chatting about the different types of charcoal, if putting chips of applewood enhanced the flavour.If a rub was superior to basting, if you should sear the meat first in cast iron then grill slowly.Naomi just rolled her eyes ¡°I hope Dave knows how happy he¡¯s made dad, Will, the captain that is.He loves talking about that stuff, we just like to eat his cooking.¡±.Minnie joined in ¡°Wait til Dave sees dads smoker, his brain will pop.¡±.At that moment they heard Ed shout, ¡°What, you cook it with smoke?Mom, mom we have to do this, did you hear me, come see.¡±.It was odd that in this world, like the one Will had left behind, some things never changed.All the men on the boat, aides, porters, councillor, captain¡­it didn¡¯t matter, they all seemed to have a love for outdoor cooking and were all congregating around the grill.Samantha hadn¡¯t made a move, just sitting with a glass of wine with Naomi.Gemma and Evelyn had a glass of beer, but hadn¡¯t moved either.¡°I just don¡¯t get the fascination of it, it tastes good but I can¡¯t really tell the difference from one to the other.¡±, Gemma remarked.Evelyn nodded ¡°You know my partner, he build that thing in our yard.Cooks whole pigs on it, stands there and turns it and turns it, drinking beer with his friends.¡± she sighed, ¡°It makes him happy I guess, that¡¯s what¡¯s important.Minnie agreed ¡°Dad loves cooking up there, me too, but just cause he does.¡±.They were interrupted by Ed, wearing an apron and carefully carrying Wills tongs, ¡°Look mom, how they angled the gripping surface, so you don¡¯t get as hot, the body is longer too, and the teeth are wider.And the captain wrapped leather over the wooden handles and soaks them before he uses them.¡±.The young man was very excited and his mother patted his shoulder and smiled as he yammered on.As he ran back to the bow there were excited whoops as smoke puffed up as the grease caught from the ribs.This time Minnie went back with him, telling Ed that he had to clack the tongs twice before using them ¡°It activates the magic.¡±.Ed laughed, thinking how silly that was, and absolutely believing every word.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    A couple of the other aides were preparing the rest of the meal using the portable wood stoves that had been brought on deck tonight.Potatoes were frying and boiling, peas were steaming as were green beans, the smell of bread baking was coming from below as well.¡°I can¡¯t quite get the hang of bread in a clay oven, on top of one of these.¡±, Naomi gestured at the small stove.¡°I¡¯ve tried and tried but it just doesn¡¯t turn out as well as when I use the big ones.¡±.She and Gemma went below to check the bread, the older woman telling of her younger days working in a bakery.Ed called from the bow, ¡°Everything¡¯s nearly ready up here, we had to test a few of the sausages though, just to make sure.¡±.Samantha answered ¡°I¡¯m sure you did dear.¡±.Hearing Wills laugh as she said this was comforting.Ed had never known his father, he had passed in a logging accident , and to see him with Will and Dave was heartwarming.Naomi had returned with Gemma and several racks of fresh baked rolls, crusty buns and loaves of steaming bread.Checking on the other dishes, the potatoes had crisped nicely in butter, and been mashed fluffily with even more butter, the peas were swimming in a thick buttery sweet sauce and the beans were dripping with extra butter in deep pans, onions had been braised until lovely and brown.Young as she was she had final say on any cooking on this boat.Deeming everything ready she called out that dinner was ready, no answer.Raising her voice slightly she called again, still nothing but laughter from the bow.In a voice that a banshee would have envied she screeched that dinner was ready, now.The others near her were a little shocked that such a noise could come from such a small person.The echoes from shore were magnificent and Will called back ¡°Coming mummy.¡±.


    Carrying steaming platters of ribs, plates of rare steaks and trays of grilled sausages they arrived from the bow.¡°Got quite a set of lungs huh sis, I think you woke the whales up.¡±, Minnie laughed.Sitting all together, council and crew at one end, so being able to talk business, aides at the other end, dinner was served.After not having fresh meat and vegetables for the last two months, this meal was wonderful.Will might have overeaten a tad, Naomi might have a little bit, and Minnie had definitely.Two large steaks topped with onions, a rack of ribs, fried and mash potatoes and a pound of peas and beans had finally filled Will up nicely, now he was topping off with a few buttered buns.Minnie was just as full beside him, having eaten nearly as much.All through the meal they had told stories of their voyage.The new community of the burrows, and how the people lived in that harsh land.Encounters with whales, the horrible sharp attack.Dave examined the tooth that they all still wore, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen one this big, how long was it again?¡±.Minnie stood and went to the rail where they had killed that last giant one.¡°It¡¯s head was from here,¡±, she scampered ten feet away, ¡°to there, all jaws and teeth, me and dad pulled it up and Naomi stuck it right through the brain, lots of times.¡±.Samantha shook her head ¡°Sounds horrible, you¡¯re all lucky you made it.¡±.¡°Well.¡±, Naomi added, ¡°We had lots of help from the burrower guys, they¡¯re all tough warriors, got spears and axes.They chopped up quite a few too.¡±.Will pointed out a few marks on the deck where spears or axes had dug deep. The tale of moving the people from their village to a new area took a while but everyone was impressed.And saddened by the decision of the older people to stay behind, unable to travel on the lake. Not every detail was told, some were private, but enough to give people a glimpse into the huge world they lived in.The news of a book of their voyages, with pictures, was received with joy.To actually see what these three had lived through was a gift, it was the only way they would ever have of knowing.


    Dinner ended with pumpkin and apple pies, and clotted cream.Will was still quite full but managed to do his best with a large piece of each drenched in cream.Minnie despised pumpkin, it was ¡®orange goo¡¯, but she loved apple.Naomi enjoyed both but only had a small portion of apple.There were no leftovers, the dishes were taken below by two of the porters and were washed under Naomi¡¯s guidance.The stoves were cleaned out and closeted into the hold after they cooled and it was time for tea.No business tonight after all, just a get together of good friends.Dave and Ed were planning on building smokers in the next few days and were particularly excited for brisket.A huge chunk of beef usually too tough to eat, it was ground up normally.But the idea it could be slow cooked and be as moist and tender as butter was thrilling to these two.¡°So you can smoke just about everything, I can hardly wait to try.¡±, Dave said.Will had sketched out his smoker plans, actually Minnie had after giggling at Wills efforts.Now there were two finely detailed plans, complete with tiny Minnie¡¯s fishing or stalking around the pages edges with a bow in hand.


    The stars were well up and twinkling by the time everyone was escorted down the quay to safety.The aides loaded up all the various trays back into the carriages and left in a flurry of hoofs.The four councillors were a bit more sedate, and after good nights, see you tomorrow¡¯s they also packed up and left.Looking around at the quiet town Will remarked ¡°it¡¯s like they roll up the sidewalks.¡±.Minnie¡¯s eyes widened with glee, ¡°Really?Places do that?Sounds like a lot of work.¡±.Sighing he explained ¡°Just a term that means there¡¯s no nightlife, people just stay home after dark.¡±.¡°In Laketown people come to our tavern, there¡¯s surely the same here, somewhere.¡±, Naomi added.¡°Probably, just don¡¯t know the town well enough.¡±.¡°We¡¯ve got a long time to get to, we¡¯ll be around for a while.¡± Will said.Walking slowly back up the quay they could hear the water lapping gently at the pilings, again he wondered who built it.It must have been the crew of the Rose, years ago.If it had been close to shore it might have been done by townsfolk, this was too far though.The effort of driving the supports deep into the lake bottom, ¡°It would have been a big job, wonder where the equipment is?¡±, Will remarked as the reached the boat.¡°Might be at Laketown, lots of warehouses by the lake.Were you thinking of building another one somewhere, a bit north of here?¡± Naomi asked.¡°That would be fun, borrow one of these barges and load it up with supplies, maybe some older helpers and head out.¡±, Minnie said.Now there was a good idea, Will thought, if the older kids can come along to gather coal and item then why not to help build a dock by the burrows.But he was going to check Laketown for the dredging and pile driving equipment first.


    By now they reached the boat and climbed aboard, securing the stairs behind.Sitting on the deck and finally able to enjoy being outside was a treat.A bit of a busy time was coming, what with gathering here, then probably at Laketown as well.But this is what they do and while it was nice to go voyaging a couple of times a year, it was nice to come home.¡°Besides,¡±, Will said, ¡°coal runs usually take a week, so this one will be over just before our Christmas Day.¡±.¡°Oh yeah it is, I¡¯ve been marking the days on the calendar.Todays December the twelfth, so we can do a run for like ten days, then head to sea for our holiday.¡±, Minnie said excitedly.¡°That will give us a day back here to go shopping for presents too, but not alone, never alone, okay?¡±, Will said.Naomi nodded ¡°I don¡¯t like the idea of being over there by myself, it¡¯s too big and I don¡¯t really know too many people.¡±.Minnie agreed too, ¡°It¡¯s big and the people are okay but I don¡¯t know them all, I¡¯ll just stay with you guys.¡±. He knew Minnie and Naomi were very capable people but he still worried about them, here at Newton.Not in Laketown, he supposed it was the size of this town that bothered him.But that being settled gave him peace of mind, and he headed below to ready for bed.Minnie and Naomi too, they were all a bit tired from the excellent meal and the late night.Tomorrow was a busy day.

 I Think It鈥檚 Time for a Shower

    Chapter 38.I think its Time for a Shower.


    Meanwhile in Laketown


    ¡°Muriel¡­Muriel, have you seen my creek cake, I left it on the windowsill to cool, did you take it?Muriel?¡±, Stephen called.His kitchen was quiet, the children were out visiting friends but they wouldn¡¯t have take his cake would they?They never had before, and Tyre and Curt didn¡¯t like creek cake, which was one reason he had made it, the other being it was his wife¡¯s favourite.And in her words ¡®You bake enough for everyone else, when¡¯s it my turn?¡¯, Stephen was an experienced husband and had of course lied and told her he was making one now.She had gone to visit her sister as he was puttering in the kitchen saying she would be back in an hour.This had given him ample time to whip up the creek cake and a batch of friendship muffins for the kids.The cake was one of his specialty items and had a salty sweet flavour that wasn¡¯t to everyone¡¯s taste.Maybe she had come back early and taken it?The home was in the back of the town bakery, with a large garden between the two.Mostly vegetable, bordered by raspberry bushes and a couple of fruit trees, a table and chairs to one side.He crossed to the bakery, finding Alma and Aldo, his assistants, finishing off the days orders.¡°Afternoon, has Muriel been about today?¡±, he asked.¡°Not in the last while, this morning to pick up same buns but not since.¡±, Alma answered.Her twin shook his head, he didn¡¯t speak much, but wasn¡¯t unfriendly, just quiet.Stephen turned to leave but was startled when Aldo spoke up, ¡°We¡¯re missing some apple rolls and some cheese buns.¡±.Alma nodded, ¡°They were cooling by the back door and then they were gone.¡±.This was startling news, theft was unknown in this peaceful village, the welfare of one was the welfare of all.¡°Ummm, I¡¯ll have to, uh, I¡¯ll talk to my wife and the other councillors.¡±, Stephen stammered out.He was put out of sorts by this news and after getting a few more details by the twins he went to find Regina.


    This time of the afternoon the village was bustling, as much as it ever did.Wagons were rolling through the streets, children were out of school, shopkeepers were hawking their wares.A usual day in Laketown.He got to the tavern, but had been accosted twice on his way.First by the cheese maker who had told him of a pilfering, cheese was missing.Lorenzo was as flustered as Stephen, not a lot was gone but enough that he had noticed right away..A couple of small wheels of cheddar and two crocks of a soft cheese especially made for the Roses return.Assuring the usually happy man that the council would look into it he returned to making his way to the tavern.However as he passed the crafters cottage the door flew open in a rush.The proprietor, Marian, with an A not an O, came out to talk, in quite the huff.She also had some items missing.¡°I¡¯ve been drying some new coloured wool, the really chunky kind, a beautiful orange and now it¡¯s gone, and some lovely woolly blankets with embroidered roses on them.If the Rose ever comes back they were a gift for the crew, they¡¯re gone too, the blankets, not the crew.Well they¡¯re gone too but that¡¯s normal.¡±.Stephen assured her that he was taking care of it and was meeting the other councillors at the tavern.She snorted at that ¡°If I see Muriel I¡¯ll tell her your at the tavern, taking care of things.¡±.Marian went back in to and slammed the door behind, usually even tempered and pleasant, the unusual events had unsettled her as well.


    He walked on down the Main Street, the usual dust had been settled by a light rain.Over now but things were still a bit damp.Normal for this time of year.The tavern doors were wide open and the smell of roasting meat came out, mixed with the smell of beer and ales.He entered, waved to Regina who was behind the long wooden counter.The usual table was empty, by the fireplace, but no fire today.She joined him in a few minutes with two glasses of her fine cider, ¡°Stephen, someone¡¯s made off with some of my sausages from the smokehouse out back.¡±.That really put a cap on his day, he thought, taking a long drink of his cider.


    In the dark cool room, the half closed cupboard had been made homey with the comfortable wooden blankets.Orange wool had been strung in front as a curtain and plaything.A wooden platter on the counter above held the remnants of the missing sausages, a few cheese buns and a half eaten creek cake.¡°I wonder where they are, do you think they will remember us brother, I¡¯m so worried.¡±, the small voice came from inside the dark cupboard.


    And back in Newton


    ¡°Minnie if you spray me with that hose one more time you¡¯re going swimming.¡±, Will yelled out as yet another blast of cold water got him.¡°Sorry dad.¡±, was the reply, ¡°Didn¡¯t mean to but Naomi pushed me.¡±.¡°Hah.¡±, the indignant reply came from the bow, ¡°I¡¯m fifty feet away.¡±.The crew was in the process of pumping lake water over the deck and scrubbing them down with hard bristle brooms.Removing the last trace of sharp blood and goo, dried salt left on the superstructure from the lashing seas of the past months.Every hatch cover was open, every porthole cranked open too.The windows of the wheelhouse were open as well so the sweet warm salt breeze could run through the entire ship.Cabin doors opened, same with the mess and the galley, ports wide open.The hose was being handled by an enthusiastic first mate, pumping the pedal operated pump easily and shooting high pressure water in huge arcs across the length of the Rose.They had an early start and had been at this for a few hours now and the boat was glistening inside and out.Even the bilge was clean as the could make it, a few hundred gallons pumped in, left to sit for a while then pumped out, at first quite, in the words of Minnie, ewwwickyyuck, but then flowing out clean.They had puttered out a few hundred yards from the quay and dumped and cleaned out their tanks, as well as the fresh water tanks.Returning to the dock they had dragged the long canvas hoses over to the well, by the shore, and freshened every tank with well water.Another loaded wagon had arrived with the rest of their resupply and had been lowered into the cavernous holds.


    ¡°The rest will have to wait, we got a lunch date at, what was the name again?¡±, Will remarked.¡°Martha¡¯s.¡±, was the reply behind him.Startling him and Minnie, ¡°Wow, you cleaned up quickly.¡±, Minnie laughed.And Naomi had cleaned up, looking fresh in shorts and a light shirt, and a long jacket over all.¡°You too better get to it as well, you both look and smell like a fish.¡±, the young girl said.¡°Hmmm,¡± said Will with a sniff, ¡°She¡¯s right Min , you¡¯re fishy.¡±.Minnie gasped in shock ¡°How dare you, I smell like a fresh cut flower.¡±, she leaned over and took a long whiff of Will.¡°You however, dear father, reek like what came out of the bilge.¡±.And took off running, belowdecks, Will in pursuit.¡°I¡¯ll just wait here then, okay?¡±, Naomi remarked to a gull perching on the railing beside her.It really wasn¡¯t very long before the two of them came back on deck.Resplendent in matching yellow hats, boaters with white ribbons, Will in his customary shorts and flip flops, Minnie in a plaid sundress and tool belt.Naomi had retrieved the shopping cart from the hold while waiting and the three were ready to go.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°Why¡¯d you bring that with?¡±, Minnie asked, riding as usual, pointing at the load in the bottom of her cart.¡°It¡¯s samples of the stuff from the burrowers, furs, leather and sealskin.I want to see if the council will trade for half, then see if James or Darren can use any on our new winter gear.¡±, Will answered.They were making good time, nearly running along the centre of the busy street, and Martha¡¯s came in sight quickly.Will parked the cart along the side of the building but before they could enter a shout of ¡°Hello!¡± drew them to the garden entrance.Two or three tables had been drawn together and the councillors were sitting around, with tea and cakes.¡°Welcome Will, Minnie hello, good to see you Naomi.¡±, and with that they sat down.John was especially happy to see the crew, after not being able to be on the boat last night.¡°I hope you know it wasn¡¯t personal, I just can¡¯tget near the lake anymore.¡±, he said to Will.¡°We completely understand John, let me tell you about these people, far to the north¡­.¡±.And with that the story telling was on.The older man was thrilled to hear to stories, even more do than the others had been.He had never been voyaging in his younger days, even then the water filled him with dread.Matt had been several times, with Eric the wild captain, then with his aunt, but John was a homebody.He just enjoyed his garden more that just about anything else, and it had been a bit of a battle for him to be convinced to join the council.He finally did for a couple of reasons, to honour Matt¡¯s memory and to give a different point of view to the council.But his feelings toward the lake didn¡¯t have any effect on his enjoyment of the crew¡¯s adventures.


    Finally the stories were over, again for some, but that hadn¡¯t mattered.Will had pulled the samples from his bag and the council was eagerly examining them.¡°I¡¯ve never seen fur like this, it¡¯s so thick.From a bear you say?And this is from seals?I¡¯ve seen them sunning on rocks but never thought they were worth much.¡± Gemma noted.¡°You wouldn¡¯t have much use for this fur, it¡¯s very warm and waterproof.The people that hunted it use it for boots mostly, we are getting a few pairs made using it too.¡± Will said.¡°Well, we will take all the fur and skins you have, we can always use more and these are prime furs.¡±, Evelyn told him.¡°We¡¯ll unload them later today, there¡¯s quite a good amount.¡±, Will added.What he didn¡¯t say was that Newton was only getting half, the rest would be traded at Laketown.


    While the stories were being told, deals being made, trips agreed upon, Sally had been busy bringing tea and coffee, cakes and sandwiches, and especially milk for Minnie.Having been on two gathering trips on the Rose Sally knew how much Minnie loved her milk.She had mentioned to Naomi that she would be coming tomorrow, but not Harold.He was still at the dairy farm.The meeting ended and everyone agreed that the voyage would start tomorrow, just before dinner.Will, Minnie and Naomi shopped their way back to the Rose, not needing very much anymore but still loving the small shops and vendors they found.And eventually found their way home, back to the Rose.A few packages were in their shopping cart, more candy of course and Will had stopped at the book sellers.The proprietors had been very happy to see him, Betty and Bobby had been running the store for many years, several of his ideas had intrigued the elderly couple and he was invited to take a look at some of the products.Storybooks for children, and something that had never been heard of, colouring books.Never heard of they were a runaway sold out success.¡°We have been selling out of these as quickly as we print them.¡±, Bobby said proudly.Betty added ¡°We''veadded lots of credit to the Roses account, maybe it should have just been to your personal one?¡±.Will laughed ¡°Nah, not much difference from me and the Rose.¡±.Minnie had been leafing through the colouring book and gasped ¡°It¡¯s me, and that¡¯s Naomi, and¡­hey dad, you¡¯re in here too.¡±.Will laughed as Minnie and Naomi looked through both the storybooks and the colouring books, ¡°Yup, they let me know a while ago, a local guy did the pictures, had to engrave them on metal to print them, you guys approve?¡±.Minnie nodded ¡°I¡¯m pretty good, got my ears right, Naomi looks weird though.¡±.The young girl snatched the book from Minnie, ¡°I do not, you do, your hats crooked too.¡±.They bickered away for a few minutes but Will could see they were really happy with the pictures.The Rose had figured quite prominently in the book, several pictures of her, at dock, in a plunging sea.All in all a very good job.


    There was a different feeling in Newton.Many more simple steam engines were puffing away, even behind the book shop, running a printing press he assumed.The blacksmiths, there were several, each had an engine, he could see several on the edges of town running sawmills, pumping water.¡°It¡¯s like a mini Industrial Revolution.¡±, he told Minnie.She had no idea what this was but had mastered the art of nodding and smiling.Especially when Will was going off about something like this.¡°I just hope all the negatives, like awful pollution and child labor, that was horrible.¡±.Naomi butted in with ¡°Young people have always gone on the Rose, from twelve and up, we always have.¡±.¡°A little different, in our old world children as young as eight were made to work twelve hours a day, in very dangerous conditions.¡±, Will answered.¡°Here they want to go though, we have a great time working together.That¡¯s not bad is it dad?¡±, asked Minnie.¡°No, it¡¯s not bad, it¡¯s the only way for this society to work, the way the lake is so horrible to the lands people.¡± Will said.¡°But we had the stinkys¡­sorry, the burrow guys on board for long times, they were old enough to work and kill the sharps.Couldn¡¯t they have worked too, gathered coal and stuff?¡± Minnie asked again, this was bothering her.That they might be hurting the littles by working them too hard.Naomi was going to answer by but Betty had been listening in, ¡°Minnie you¡¯re a sweetheart, but the more time we spend on the water, as young people, the worse it gets.That¡¯s where Bobby and I met, on a voyage with Yolanda, oh so many years ago.¡±.Bobby had overheard and joined in, ¡°We went on three trips as little ones, but as we got older we could feel the water more, now I can¡¯t go within twenty feet of the lake and I get¡­well you know what happens.¡±.This did reassure Minnie, and Will to be honest.He had been given foreknowledge of this world, but it was nice to get reassured that it was okay.


    The older couple accompanied them to the veranda outside their store, the crew still had much to do so it was back to the ship for them.Betty reached up and patted Bobby¡¯s cheek, ¡°You were such a handsome little devil.¡±.¡°What do you mean were?¡±. Bobby laughed and they waved goodbye as the trio continued back to the Rose. There were cabins to ready, meals to plan, courses to set, supplies to check.A hundred and one things to do before this time tomorrow.Trundling up the quay the heat of the day seemed to intensify, there was only one thing to do.¡°Cannonball¡±, yelled Will as he launchedoff of the side of the quay into the cool water.Quickly followed by Minnie and Naomi.The relief was immediate and the salt water felt wonderful as they dived deep down to the bottom, seeing the familiar hull above the.Startled fish scattered as the three of them swam underwater for as long as they could then launched up off the bottom to crash out onto the surface.¡°Oh I missed that.¡±, sighed Minnie a few minutes later, lying on the dock exhausted.Passersby¡¯s the end of the quay could only shake their heads at the antics of the crew.Captains were always a bit off and this new one was no exception, a nice man and his daughters were very friendly, but all the same just a bit weird.

 They鈥檙e Coming

    Chapter 39. They¡¯re Coming


    The rest of the afternoon and early evening were taken up by chores on the boat, getting ready for the temporary crew.Having been through this a few times now everyone knew what to expect and didn¡¯t really anticipate any trouble with the kids.The two chaperones that came along were chosen because they were experienced with younger children, and level headed.Not that it was really an issue, as Will had noted before these young people were very different from the young people of his world.Everyone that came along on the Rose wanted to be here, and knew the expectations.Naomi had told him there was a certain bonus for those that had gone a¡¯voyaging.They were given more consideration than those that had never volunteered.¡°When I went with you first, then a second time,¡± Naomi said, ¡°I was ¡­, I¡¯m not sure how to explain it.People listened to me, adults greeted me as an equal.I wasn¡¯t treated like a child anymore.¡±.¡°I see, and it¡¯s the same here, in Newton you think?¡±, he asked.¡°We¡¯re pretty well the same people, there¡¯s just more of them.I think they try hard to impress youso you will base out of here.¡± she added.He knew that but his first loyalty was still to Laketown, it might change in the future.


    They were making up the bunk beds, filling safety lanterns, checking the covered fire buckets, the usual.Minnie had fallen asleep in the lounge after their swim, she had come down to check the water in the Christmas tree and just nodded off.Will never had the heart to wake her.She would be up in her own time and get on with whatever she had planned.Meanwhile after the crew quarters were ready Naomi went to menu plan, Will checked the gathering supplies.Sun hats, gloves, shovels, boots, canvas bags and so on.Everything had to be ready, and it was.Even the folding tables and chairs for lunch and dinner ashore, the small stoves and ovens, umbrellas, tents, they were all checked.It hadn¡¯t taken long, everything was in the right place, mostly because it was put away there the last time he used it.And now it was tea time, before supper was started.Will carried his mug and plate of biscuits to the lounge, Naomi brought her paperwork as well as her own cuppa.It was still a treat to come into the cosy room, all that was missing was a fireplace, there were the usual radiators, now silent band cool.But a crackling fire would be aces.Try as he might Will hadn¡¯t been able to figure a way.The room was quite near the waterline and on rough seas a chimney would have been ripped away and water would gush in, so that was out.


    As he clinked his mug down and sat, Minnie opened sleepy eyes, stretched and asked ¡°So what¡¯s for dinner tonight?¡±.¡°I was going to do a meatloaf, with camp taters, nice and simple.¡±, Naomi replied.¡°Yum.¡±, was the only thing Minnie said.As the Rose rocked gently the ornaments on the tree clinked reminding Will of his cats.It had been many years but that sound still opened his eyes, even from a deep sleep, he was up and looking for the orange menaces.Sitting by the decorated tree, just blinking at him as one paw would just barely touch a glass ball or a metal jingle bell, barely enough to make it move.As if daring him to say or do anything.They had been generally good around the tree, just once in a while they would give it a poke.Maybe it was to keep me on my toes he thought.They had decorated, with what they had, a few days ago and Will had wrapped a couple of presents and put them in the box the tree stood in.Had to be in a box or they would go slithering around in rough weather.They had found that out the hard way.The mess tables, chairs and benches all had special fittings to hold them in place.In the lounge Will been distracted and simply forgot.One day of rough travelling had managed to trash their nice tidy lounge, and as they put it back together job one was holding things in place.Luckily the tree was springy enough and had only suffered minor injuries.


    Of course things being bolted and screwed to the deck meant the days of rearranging things for fun were over.That made Minnie happy, she didn¡¯t like changing things around ¡°It¡¯s fine where it is, why bother?¡±, was her attitude.Naomi was the same, she had told Will her families tavern had looked the same for nearly a hundred years.He had sighed, he still liked to rearrange but would have to settle for the on deck furniture.Even the loungers in their private bow area were fixed, which made sense.It just wouldn¡¯t do to be travelling across the lake with furniture falling off the deck.¡°Hey, have you ever heard of hammocks?¡±, he asked Naomi.She shook her head, ¡°No, what are they?¡±.He explained they were slings made of heavy cloth, suspended at each end and you could sleep in them.¡°Sounds fun, but why do we want them?¡±, asked Minnie.¡°Well, I don¡¯t like the three high bunks in the crew rooms.If someone was to trip or fall out it¡¯s a long way down.¡±, Will explained.¡°We could cut them down to two high, a bit more space between would be nice.And put up a few hammocks.¡±.He went on that sailors had always slept in them, they took up less room and swayed with the ship and you wouldn¡¯t roll out of bed.Another reason was they could be stowed away easily too.¡°Could I have a hammock, in here, to curl up in now and then?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°You sure can.What say we mess around with it tomorrow morning.Build a couple and see what you think?¡±, he asked.Naomi and Minnie agreed but it had gotten a bit later than they thought and it was time to get cracking on dinner.The meatloaf wasn¡¯t going to be ready so it was fishing time.


    Will was determined that his bad fishing luck had to break and today was the day.The rods had been stored below decks while they had been in the frozen north but could be stowed on deck now.They each had a favourite one, with their names carefully carved and painted on the wooden grips.Minnie¡¯s was smaller and flexible, Will¡¯s was as long as he was tall and fairly stiff, Naomi¡¯s was in between.They used a bit of cheese for bait and started casting, the distance of the casts were incredible and it was a good thing there was a steep drop off.Will got nothing, of course, this was getting very frustrating.Especially since he saw Minnie reeling in furiously, Naomi waited with a long net and snatched up the first catch.Sighing he cast again, checking his bait was still there, and didn¡¯t reel in too fast this time.Out of the corner of his eye he spied Minnie shushing Naomi, who apparently already caught another.¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯m hungry enough to even eat someone¡¯s else¡¯s fish.¡±, he laughed.¡°Good thing, cause you know¡­.¡±, Minnie said.Will sadly reeled in his un-needed line and was happily surprised when there was a hard tug, ¡°Hooray dad, finally.¡± Minnie yelled.¡°About time you know, now we won¡¯t have to hold back.¡±, Naomi added.Will said nothing, gave a sharp tug to set the hook, and reeled in.There was a fair bit of fight and because his tension was set low the fish occasionally got a little further before Will yanked it back.He was just having fun but a long sigh beside him, and a bit of a belly gurgle inspired him to speed it up.He snapped his rod and the fish left the water at warp speed, Naomi flashed her hand out and caught it before it slapped Minnie in the face. This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    ¡°Wow nice catch sis, saved me.Dad, that¡¯s the smallest fish I¡¯ve ever seen..¡±, Minnie said with a laugh.It was indeed tiny, all eyes and tail. Will didn¡¯t have the heart to keep it so back in the water it went.Naomi was stifling a laugh and looking out to the lake.¡°At least I got one, bad lucks over.¡±, Will cheered, ¡°Let¡¯s go eat.¡±.Minnie was waving bye bye to Wills fish, Naomi joined in, of course Will had to, ¡°Goodbye bad luck, stay away.¡±, he called across the waves.¡°You think that will work.¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°it can¡¯t hurt.¡±, Will replied.He took their fish to the bow and quickly cleaned them, four large juicy fillets ready for frying up.Naomi had started the camp potatoes already and it only took a few minutes to lightly fry the fish, a nice quiet dinner on the bow.In the dimming sunshine, the gulls wheeling around, town settling down, it was a very peaceful and pleasant meal.They had the remnants of their cakes for dessert.Will went below for a bath but was outnumbered by first Naomi then Minnie.It didn¡¯t bother him that much, they weren¡¯t on a schedule, yet.When the kiddies came aboard it would be a whole other kettle of fish.


    While waiting for his turn in the bath Will was playing around with a hammock.Now he had never made one before, he had owned the type that was on a frame, not the free hanging one.Figuring this out was turning out to be more difficult than he realized.The material he was using was canvas, not all that easy to work with but strong.Laying it out on a flat surface then trying to figure out how to get the thing to hang properly.Tying a loop around excess cloth didn¡¯t work.Next he was planning a rod sewn into each end and then a rope hooked on.That would be tied to the supports.There was at least an hour, maybe longer, probably longer until he got a chance to bath so why not use it wisely.A very frustrating time later Will had given up on hammocks and was on deck with a cuppa soothing his frazzled nerves. ¡°I suppose we¡¯ll figure it out, But not today.¡±, he told a nearby gull.¡°Talking to the birds again dad?¡±, Minnie asked beside him.Looking very sleek and brushed she was ready for the next few days work.¡°I was playing around with the hammock, but couldn¡¯t get it, it¡¯s not a one person job.¡±, he answered.Minnie nodded ¡°Good thing I didn¡¯t try it, I would probably have chucked it into the lake.¡±.Will laughed, at least she knew her own temper, ¡°We¡¯ll try it again, maybe when the kids are on board, the evenings are nice and quiet.¡±.A snort from behind startled him a bit, it was Naomi, ¡°Nice and quiet, when the demons are on board.Where have you been the last few trips?¡±.


    The sight of her reminded Will it was his turn for a wash.¡°Later guys,¡±, and he went below to have a long soak.The high bathtub waited, full of fresh hot water ready for him to soak, ¡°Oh thanks sweety¡±, he murmured as he stripped off and relaxed.In water to his moustache, only nose and eyes showing, if felt glorious.Twenty minutes later he was back on deck in his usual shorts and light shirt.It couldn¡¯t really be called a tee shirt as it had a collar still, so more of a golf shirt.Darren the tailor had been a bit scandalized when Will had shown him what he wanted.Then shrugged, the captains and crew were always a bit ¡®off¡¯.Min and Naomi were at the bow, playing cards and chatting about the incoming crew.Wondering whether they would be as hard working as in the past.¡°Oh hi there.¡±, he boomed making them both jump.¡°Oh hi there yourself.¡± Minnie said, as she picked up her cards.¡°What were you guys talking about so intently?¡±. he asked as he sat in his lounger.¡°We think you should change the age limit for the crew, no one younger than fourteen.¡±, Naomi said firmly.¡°Okay.¡±, Will said.¡°I don¡¯t think you should have¡­did you say okay?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°I did, I agree with you guys.¡±, Will explained, ¡°They might be hard workers, but twelve is a bit young.I know it¡¯s always been this way, and I know the lake effect is harder on the older folks.But as Stephen explained it to me, way back when, the kids are okay til seventeen, eighteen.Then it¡¯s game over.¡±.So that was agreed, Will would let the town council know tomorrow.


    Looking out to the horizon, the lake was calm in the bay and the day was coming to spend.Will decided to take a look at the barges and see what shape they were in.Minnie came along but Naomi passed, she was feeling lazy after her bath.The first checked out, no damage to the hull and no water leakage inside, just a bit of rain blown in over the months.The second and third were in equally good shape, walking back to the Rose they heard a ¡°hallloooo¡± behind.Turning they saw Dave the councillor, but not in his formal clothes, just work dungarees today.¡°Evening Will, Minnie, have a nice walk?¡±, he asked.They went to meet him at the land end, he was old enough to be nervous around the water.A few dozen yards down the waterfront was a small gazebo, unoccupied st this time and the three of them sat on the benches.¡°So what¡¯s up Dave, just having an evening wander or were we the purpose of your visit?¡±, Will asked, after the usual pleasantries.Dave shook his head, ¡°Nope, no reason, I was heading home after picking up a bit of supplies¡­saw you guys and here I am.¡±.Minnie looked at Will and shrugged,¡°We were actually coming to find you tomorrow.Got a bit of a change to tell you.¡±, Will went on as Dave was nodding a bit nervously.¡°We think twelve is too young for the ship kiddies, so we agreed it should be fourteen years and older.What do you say?¡±, Will asked.Dave shrugged ¡°I¡¯ve always thought twelve was young, it¡¯s fine with me.Your boat, your decision.¡±.Well that was easy, Will thought.That settled Dave went on to tell them about the chickens he had smoked yesterday, how nice they were but took a bit longer than he thought.¡°Ah¡±, Will said, ¡°You have to spatchcock it, take out the spine and flatten it, much quicker then.¡±.Dave thought this was a great idea, pulled out a notebook and carefully wrote it down, ¡°Spatchcock, what an odd word.From your home country I assume?¡±.¡°Yeah, we¡¯re not from around here.¡±, Minnie said.¡°I always thought you were from Laketown, it is somewhere different that you hale from.¡±, Dave asked politely.¡°Hold on to your hat, you¡¯re gonna love this.¡±, laughed Minnie, ¡°There was this guy that dad met¡­

 Coaling, coaling, coaling, along the lake we鈥檙e going

    Chapter 40. Coaling, coaling, coaling, along the lake we¡¯re going


    The previous evening had been very peaceful and stress free.It¡¯s important to get stuff done then take it easy the night before a big event.Sitting in the mess, as Will wrote this he remembered getting ready for family Christmas parties.So much to do, to get ready, packages to wrap, food to prepare, truck to clean up for a big load of presents and food.The family used to share the hosting, one year it was Will and his wife, next it was their daughters, then the sons and sometimes st their nieces.It just took the pressure off one person constantly doing it.And it was sure a lot of work.One year, towards the end of the family celebrations, was particularly busy.There was baking to do, they always put a bundle together for the children, even as they had become adults and parents themselves, Will and his wife still tried to give them a taste of home.After the baking there was wrapping presents for all, then the crafting.¡°Crafting, like what I do, like tinkering?¡±, Minnie asked from her usual spot.Sitting cross legged on the table beside him, reading what he put down.¡°Kind of, mom enjoyed making Christmas gifts instead of buying stuff they already had.Kids can sometimes have too many toys.¡±, Will answered.


    Talking with Minnie like this was nice, bringing up memories.She of course had questions ¡°What¡¯s a glue gun, is a truck like one of those car things, is sweet potato pie yummy, what¡¯s a marshmallow?¡±. He tried to tell her as well as he could, but some terms just weren¡¯t relevant.Naomi had joined them and was just as interested as Minnie was in the tales of his past.¡°If we did a deep dive thing could we see those times?¡±, she asked.Hmmm, there¡¯s an idea, Will thought, ¡°Let¡¯s give it a shot.¡±.They arranged several pillows and sat on the deck, holding hands.Heads bowed, breathing deep and slow, their minds merged into the memories. Minnie¡¯s were first, unformed thoughts at first.Feelings of contentment, sadness, happiness all intertwined.Then later as she had ¡®become¡¯ there were flashes of fishing, swimming, standing behind the big wheel piloting, but nothing more.Then Naomi, her freshest memory seemed to be of making bread today, then again just flashes and feelings of her life aboard.Wills came to the forefront, still strong feelings of loss mixed with love but nothing concrete about his earlier life.Try as he might they were stubbornly not showing up.The came back to themselves.Lying on a heap on the cushions.¡°Brrr still a weird feeling dad.¡±, Minnie said finally.¡°Didn¡¯t really get anywhere though.¡±, Will added, ¡°Did you get anything Naomi?¡±.She shook her head ¡°Not really, just feelings from Minnie, mostly happy, sadness from you, not all the time, just sometimes.¡±.¡°Maybe we can only search the memories for boat related stuff, like when we found out the signal for the burrowers.¡±, Will mused.They sat quietly for a few minutes, getting their thoughts together.It was rather an odd experience, when it worked.You became someone else, living through their memories. Standing, stretching, it was time for a cuppa.Nice and full from dinner, relaxed from the bath, they played a few games, sang some songs then went to sleep long after the sun went down.


    Dreaming of nothing, at least nothing that was remembered, Will woke early the next morning.Minnie was a snoring lump of quilts next to him.Entirely cocooned except for one hand, cupped over his own as they slept.He carefully extricated himself from the quilts, dressed quietly and headed on deck.The sun was just appearing on the horizon and what a sparkling day it was turning out to be.Warm with a wisp of wind from the south, a few clouds, high up in the light blue sky.A perfect day to start a voyage.Lots to do, pulling the barges out, final supply drop, get the crew and head to the shoals. But first a full breakfast.


    He headed below to the galley, built up the wood stoves and out on the kettle, coffee pot too.Naomi did enjoy her coffee.¡°I wish there was a hot drink Minnie enjoyed.¡± he muttered as he worked.But nothing came to mine, except Horlicks and Ovaltine, and he had no clue what they were, just heard the names years ago.Cutting potatoes, slicing bacon, getting the egg pan ready to go, breakfast was on the way.Things were a lot easier with tons of supplies, that¡¯s for sure.Once again their galley larder and cupboards were full to bursting.No ice in the icebox but to be honest the crew had seen enough ice for a while.The pantry storeroom had no empty shelves, the cool room at the lowest point was full of tubs of butter and eggs, milk and cream, potatoes and other veggies.Four barrels of emergency supplies had been made ready again, and Will planned for at least four more.


    It was pleasant using butter again for cooking, just something about it, made everything taste richer.Things were mostly ready so he opened the mess door, letting the bacon smell waft through the corridors, and for good measure, rang the dinner bell too.He could hear stirrings and mutterings and knew they were awake.The potatoes were ready, he had formed them into patties, like that oh-so-familiar restaurant.They didn¡¯t taste like it though, there had always been something about it, everything tasted vaguely the same.Must have been the oil their menu was cooked in.Today was poached eggs so they were waiting until Minnie and Naomi were here.Min liked her eggs runny, so did Naomi.Will could take or leave them but preferred hard fried, or hard poached.And using a poacher was tricksy, even after taking it off the heat the water in the pan was still cooking the eggs, so it took practice.


    ¡°Hey pop, smells yummy, I¡¯m starved.¡±, Minnie greeted him as she entered the galley.¡°Oh me too, I dreamed of meringue, gonna make some today..¡±, Naomi added, with a good morning hug.Pop, Will thought, where did she get that from, his daughter called him that.Distracted by eggs the thought left his mind.Successful in his quest to make four runny poached eggs and two hard poached they sat to eat.As she stuffed bacon in Minnie had a thought, ¡°Hey how old is Sally, the tea place girl.She said she was coming but our new rules might stop her.¡±.¡°That would be too bad, she and Harold were great but gotta make a line somewhere.¡±, Will answered.¡°I guess.¡±, Min said, ¡°We¡¯ll see later I guess.¡±.Naomi had been quietly eating and seemed to have something on her mind.Minnie poked her ¡°Wassup girly?¡±.She sighed ¡°Just thinking about the kids, and what dad said yesterday about eight year olds working twelve hours or more.Thats pretty horrible.¡±.Will had a mouthful of potatoes and took a moment, washing the bite down with tea, ¡°Yeah it was, I don¡¯t see it happening here, just too different of a world, people are generally nicer here.¡±.


    Breakfast was usually a quick meal, no matter what it was.They were naturally busy people and had many projects, tasks, chores to do.No sitting around falling asleep in his chair, there¡¯s always something waiting.To start, or to finish.His todo book was overflowing with ideas.The Rose was a bit lonely and quiet sometimes with just the three of them.If Minnie was in her small workroom, Will in his office and Naomi in the lounge the ship could be pretty echoey.The twelve kiddies and two older chaperones would definitely change that.Will just hoped Dave had let everyone know about his changes.This and other deep thoughts ran through his mind while he was cleaning up and doing the dishes.Things like how could a one cup measure be the same here as it was where he came from, how do you make marshmallows, hopefully he found peanuts soon.He had a hankering for peanut brittle, and peanut butter too.But he knew the plants only grew in hot climates, like cocoa beans.Surprisingly they had coffee and tea, which also required hot weather.I¡¯ll have to ask the farmers here, where it comes from he thought.


    Dishes done and galley sparkling it was time to get to it.Dragging the barges out to the bay so they could pick them up after loading the crew up.Fun times.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Minnie headed up on deck with Naomi to prep the boat for travelling, Will went below to do the same.Starting the boiler, checking the fuel loaders, filling his tea mug he went on deck.The tow bollard had been fastened in place, all the tow cables were examined for kinks or other damage.Everything was shipshape and ready to go.One by one the barges were hooked to the Rose and towed out, away from shore and anchored off.Then after the work crew were boarded they would be picked up until all three were in tow.As before crowds were on the beach watching, just fascinated to see this part of their world.It was much easier to do it this way, more room to work.Then back to the quay and tied up.The supply wagon was waiting at the lands end and Minnie scampered down to escort it.Ed was driving as usual and was happy to see everyone this morning.¡°Busy time coming huh, can¡¯t say I miss it.The idea of all that water under me, brrr.¡±, the young man said.¡°We like it, nothing really scary down there, just sea serpents and monster sharps, and shrimps¡­yummy.¡±. Minnie replied.This did not help and it was a nervous young man backing the loaded wagon down the quay.Will met them and quickly unloaded the load of perishables, fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, more eggs, fresh meat for tonight¡¯s meal.


    As the day wore on it was time for the youngsters to show up.¡°It¡¯s nice to do this again, don¡¯t you think?¡±, Naomi asked.They were sitting on the edge of the quay, dangling their feet in the cool water.You could only do this fairly close to shore, the pilings were too high where the Rose was berthed.If they had more time it would have ended up in a swim, but just as that thought hit Wills mind, the carriages and wagons started to roll up.¡°Time to be presentable.¡±, Will laughed, brushing his clothes off.One of Minnie¡¯s flip flops had managed to go for a swim, but Naomi reached it in time, before it got too far.¡°Thanks, it might have gotten as far as the burrows, my shoe coming to visit.¡±, she laughed happily.The three of them went to meet the happy faces, most eager, some nervous.They saw a few familiar ones, Greta was there as one of the chaperones, but no Al.¡°She was telling me he aged out, very nervous about the water now.¡±, Naomi said, she had seen Will looking the crew over.¡°Hey there¡¯s Sally!¡±, Minnie yelled.She had climbed up to stand on Wills shoulders and was way above the crowd now.Her balance was excellent but Will was still worried.He remembered years and years of little ones riding on his shoulders.Parades, amusement parks, camping, beaches, so many times he felt those tiny people depending on him.Minnie was crouching slightly and using his head as a support, she was okay.When Naomi saw what she was doing she laughed and asked ¡°When¡¯s my turn?¡±, with big puppy dog eyes, lower lip quivering.¡°Ah, well I guess, you might be a bit big, but I¡¯ll try.¡±, he stammered. Bursting into giggles she said, ¡°Just kidding dad.¡±.


    The crowd was waiting for the kids to settle down, and it was no surprise that John stepped forward to see them off.¡°For years my Matt made a speech when our children went to serve, then the dry years came, when the Rose was waiting for captain Will, first mate Minnie and second mate Naomi.¡±, he pointed to each then continued.¡°In our life there are certain things that never change, the lake and how it affects us and the bravery of our young people, going voyaging on the heartboat.Now captain Will has changed somethings, these trips are more fun than they used to be.I¡¯m jealous of the times you have had, and the times to come.One change is that only children fourteen summers and more can go now, I know you younger ones are disappointed.But there will be many more voyages in the years to come, you will all get your chance to help our town.To those going now, thank you.Work hard and hurry home to us.¡±.He and the other councillors applauded.Will stepped forward, Minnie somersaulted off his shoulders and landed beside Naomi with a thump.They had brought a crate with them, opened it and passed out life belts to the teens.¡°Okay crew, let¡¯s go.¡±, he called and with Minnie in the lead, Naomi herding the nervous ones, Will pulling up the rear with a couple of stragglers that had taken too long to say goodbye.As they all walked down the quay, the noise from behind started to fade, when they reached the Rose it was mostly quiet.The group waited for Will, he swung the stairs down,¡±Climb aboard if you please, don¡¯t forget your bags.¡±.Two lads scurried back down and retrieved their luggage, ¡°Sorry captain .¡±.¡°All good lads, hurry on now.¡±, Will laughed.


    Twelve teenagers, two older teens, one young woman, one small dog girl and one old guy, this will be grand Will thought.¡°Okay guys, listen up.We¡¯re going to have a lot of fun, lot of work in the next few days.Listen to Naomi, listen to Minnie, they speak for me.Any problems with other crew talk to Greta or to ¡­sorry who¡¯s the other chaperone again?¡±, he asked.A hand raised, ¡°That¡¯s me captain, William Atherton, my dads Dave on the council.¡±.¡°Right, where was I?¡±, Will asked, ¡°You were going on about who to talk to if there¡¯s problems.¡±, Minnie called out.¡°So any problems talk to one of us, if there is any bullying or name calling we will deal with it right away.Remember, Naomi will choose two of you to help in the galley and mess hall, that job is hard work, keeping all those empty bellies full.So let¡¯s get below, stow your gear.We¡¯re getting cracking on.¡±, Will finished.


    ¡°Come on then I¡¯ll show you to your beds.¡±, Naomi called out.Minnie went with her, talking a mile a minute to Sally and a couple of others she knew.Will closed the stairs and went below himself.Running into a couple of teen sitting on the stairs, shooing them below, ¡°Up or down, no in between please.¡±, he said.They scampered back down with a ¡°Sorry captain.¡±.Will headed down one more deck to the boiler/engine room.Starting the boiler he turned it to full burn,checked the coal bunkers.As the heat came up he could smell the coal, that familiar tinge to the air that showed they were on their way again.He loved it, the sounds of running feet on the mid deck above him, laughter and excited voices, Minnie¡¯s high pitched squeak of laughter, followed by Naomi¡¯s, oh oh, he thought, what happened?Climbing the ladder to mid decks he found the new crew members lined up outside the mess as the two of them were chasing a frog around.An apparent stow away in someone¡¯s bag and as he watched Minnie nabbed it and chucked it out the port, with a ¡°yuck.¡±.Will turned to look at the small faces, all looking back at him, ¡°Sorry guys, this is a no frog zone.¡±, he said solemnly.Sally raised her hand, ¡°I left my bag outside before I left, we always have lots around at the tea house, one must have crawled in and fallen asleep, I¡¯m sorry captain it won¡¯t happen again, do I have to go back?¡±.Minnie stuck her head out of the mess door, ¡°Nah, it would have to be a lot worse than that for us to take you back, like drink all dads tea.¡±, Naomi chimed in ¡°Or eat all Minnie¡¯s biscuits.¡±, Will added ¡°But if you messed up Naomi¡¯s hair on purpose¡­definitely then.¡±.Laughter broke the ice and everyone felt better.


    Will reached and rang the dinner bell, ¡°Everyone in, find a seat please.¡±.He waited til everyone was seated.¡°Okay, I see some familiar faces, a few new ones too.You ¡®old hands¡¯ can let the new people know how things are later.Just a few announcements for now.If you hear that bell it¡¯s dinner time.Eat all you want.Naomi will post a menu for the day, if there¡¯s anything you don¡¯t like, or can¡¯t eat let her know.¡±.He reached in his pocket, looking for his notebook, Minnie tapped his shoulder and handed it too him.¡°Thanks Min, I wrote down what I wanted to say,¡±, he leafed through, ¡°Nope, that¡¯s the shopping list, this is my to do list, this is¡­oops, this one¡¯s secrets.Ahah, got it.¡±.Giving Minnie a look at her giggling he started again.¡°Right, the menu, ok.Listen to Minnie, she¡¯s deck boss, if she tells you to do something there¡¯s probably a good reason to.Listen to Naomi, she¡¯s under deck boss, same thing.Here on the Rose we¡¯re a family, don¡¯t be afraid to ask anything, but there¡¯s a few places off limits.The lower deck is all engine and boiler room, storerooms and the holds.There¡¯s real danger there, burns, fumes, dangerous stuff.We¡¯ll have a tour later, maybe tonight after we¡¯ve put a few miles behind us.For now, before we get going, any questions?¡±.Minnie raised hers ¡°Hey dad, we ever gonna get moving?¡±.Naomi had tried to stop her but Will knew what she was doing, ¡°Pretty soon, any other questions?¡±.He knew there probably were but they were too nervous to ask.Seeing no hands he stood and called ¡°All hands on deck.¡±, with a ringing shout.The kids scurried to the door and stampeded up the stairs, followed by a laughing Minnie.¡°Good one dad.¡±, Naomi patted his shoulder as she too ran to the stairs and up on top.


    Once he joined them, Minnie saluted and headed to the wheelhouse.She left the door open, Will jumped off the stern and pulled the ropes, Naomi did the same at the bow.¡°Take us out Min, half ahead when we¡¯re clear.¡±.She tooted the steam whistle and he let the familiar throb below, green water started to foam behind and the quay was left behind.Faster and faster the Rose steamed from Newton and started to turn to pick up the barges.Another wonderful day on the lake Will thought, wouldn¡¯t swap it for the world.


    .

 Working Days

    Chapter 41. Working Days


    Far to the north


    The mountain range was hundreds of miles from the lake shore and the shakings and rumblings did not reach that far.Usually.Under the surface unimaginable forces had created cracks, these branched together and made furrows in the land, such as the one nearly reaching the giant tree.This had released much of the tension that had built and it seemed that all was returning to normal.


    And far to the south in Laketown


    The petty pilfering had continued.Stephen and the council were at wits end trying to find the culprit or culprits.Traps had been set, cakes or buns left in plain sight with hidden watchers.Nothing.No business was safe.Baked goods, fresh meat, cheese, now blankets and pillows, most of the shops and kiosks had reported loss.No footprints leading to or from the scene of the crimes, no clues left behind.The people were loathe to point fingers at each other and there was nothing to suggest a suspect anyway.But in a cool dark room, in a warm cupboard a small figure smoothed out a thick blanket.¡°Is that better brother, does it help your sore foot?Be careful moving, I¡¯ll go out tonight and fetch dinner.¡±.The deepening shadows told that the sun was setting and the only sound in the room was water gently lapping and the soft breathing from the sleepers.


    Back on board the Rose


    ¡°Slow down Minnie, nearly there..nearly¡­okay take us around while dad lifts the anchor.¡±, Naomi was shouting instructions to the wheelhouse and Will had jumped to the first barge.The Rose slowly made a circle as he lifted the anchor and tied the thick tow rope to the front and the back hookups.As the Rose approached her stack was belching thick black smoke, waves foaming at the bow, pennants snapping in the wind.A magnificent sight indeed.Minnie slowed her to a crawl and Naomi easily caught the tow rope as Will hurled it, she slipped the loop over the bollard, carefully avoiding any loops in the tow cable.As the boat passed Will jumped the ten feet from the barge, landing with a thump on the deck beside Naomi.¡°Wow dad, nice jump, did you know you could do that, or was it just luck.¡±, the young girl asked, a bit startled.Will laughed, ¡°Well I got to thinking.You know we are stronger, much stronger than we used to be.So I figured why not give it a try, the scary thing is that I wasn¡¯t even really trying.¡±.Naomi giggled a bit, ¡°So you might have jumped right over us, Minnie would have died laughing if you had.¡±.Will nodded, she wasn¡¯t wrong.¡°I¡¯ll try that with the next one, quicker than paddling.And it was fun.¡± he said happily.The Rose tugged a bit as she picked up the slack and took the weight of the barge, easily handled and Minnie set course for the next.Will had time to go to the wheelhouse and tell her his plan to jump to the barges instead of rowing.¡°Like a grasshopper, pop and you were over here again?¡±, she asked, between giggles.¡°Yeah, it was weird, I just thought why not and gave it a shot.Hey the next ones coming up, I¡¯ll try again.¡±, he said as he looked out the window.¡°Okay.¡±, she said, ¡°I want to watch this time.¡±.She opened all the windows to get a better view.Will stood on the bow, waiting until the next barge was coming close.He saw the gap was about the same, ten to twelve feet, waited¡­waited then jumped.He landed safely on the barge, staggered a bit on his feet by put made it safely.Throwing his arms up into a ¡®V¡¯ he waved at Minnie and Naomi as they passed.Pulling the anchor, fixing the fire tow cable he made ready to jump to the first, but as he waited he was astonished to see Naomi soar the twenty feetfrom the stern and land.


    Shaking his head, ¡°What have we become?¡±, he laughed.As the first barge passed by he gave to thick tow rope a mighty toss, Naomi missed the catch but pounced on the slithering rope and slipped it over the rear bollard.Again there was a tug on the Rose as she picked up the slack and then the weight of the second barge.Will was now at the rear of the train, waiting to hop over to the third and last barge.As the boat was heading straight he could see Naomi make a running leap and landed near to him.¡°That¡¯s so much fun.¡±, Minnie will be so jealous her ears will steam.¡°Oh yeah.¡±, Will agreed, ¡°Oh oh, look sharp.¡±.The third was coming up and he rescued for the jump.It seemed to be getting easier as he took off and made it easily.Pretty big target though, hard to miss, he thought as he cranked up this anchor.Pulling the coiled tow rope out of its weatherproof locker he lifted the loop over the tow post and waited for the boat to come around.At dead slow she passed, Minnie blasting the steam whistle like mad.The teens lined the railings watching every move they made.Must have been very entertaining indeed.As the Rose crept by at dead slow he readied the line, swinging it over his head as the boat, the first and then the second barge slid by and then a toss into Naomi¡¯s waiting hands.A moment later it was hitched up and moving with the rest.With running leaps, carefully timed he and Naomi made it back to the deck of the Rose in a burst of laughter.Minnie was hanging out of the wheelhouse door just shaking her head.As they approached she asked ¡°I get next turn right, that looked so easy, do you think I can jump that far too?¡±.Will agreed with her that of course she could do it too, and that yes, she could do the next ones.¡°When we hit land I want to see what our limits are, don¡¯t want to risk too much on the water.¡±, he said as he brewed up a cuppa in the wheelhouse.Looking back he could see some of the teens seeing who could jump the furthest.All in good fun though.¡°Okay Minnie, take us out of the bay and on course to the shoal, full speed if you please.¡±, he asked.¡°Aye aye captain.¡±, she said and clicked the throttle¡¯s lever to full.At her top speed of twelve knots the Rose was out of the bay and on her way north in just under an hour.The waters of the main lake were not too rough today and the weather was holding fair and mild.A perfect day for sailing, steaming, whatever he thought.


    Having come this way a couple of times Will calculated the coal deposits were about twenty hours away at this speed.So his plan was to steam straight there, no breaks.Then anchor up and start gathering on the next day.As tradition called for it the first nights meal was cheeseburgers and the delicious deep fried chips.Will was trying another side dish today as well.He had contacted Dave, who talked to his supplier who came through with what he needed.About ten pounds of shredded cabbage and carrots.Mixed with Wills homemade mayonnaise, vinegar and sugar, he produced the best coleslaw these kids had ever had.Considering they had never had it before he still counted this as a win.The smell of frying onions, broiling beef, toasting buns and the fresh chips, if the kids weren¡¯t hungry before they sure would be when dinner was ready.With the lake this calm Will had tied the wheel on course while he cooked and prepared.Minnie or he would check every little while and course correct as needed.¡°I missed this.¡±, she said, stirring the onions.¡°Yup, me too.¡±, Will replied, ¡°A nice simple week, nothing hidden, just doing the normal things.¡±.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    Naomi had chosen two helpers, like she usually did, and together they had set up tables and chairs on the deck.When the burgers were ready she brought up the mounds of chips they had prepared in the galley, Minnie rang the dinner bell to call any stragglers.Will was still keeping an eye on their course but could take time to eat and relax with dinner.¡°Ah yes, the usual before dinner speech.¡± he said, sitting at the head of the table, ¡°Welcome welcome to the first of many dinners that we will enjoy together.But that¡¯s enough for now, dig in.¡±.The children attacked the food like starving wolves.Most of these dishes were unfamiliar to them, not what they were used to.That¡¯s what made it specialthough.The salty chips, burgers covered with cheese then topped with onions. Then, after the food had settled a bit there was a freshly baked cake, well several actually, with clotted cream to top it off. Minnie had eaten her usual and was nearly asleep in her chair, but Will had taken it easy, going to the wheelhouse with a plate and checking the course.They were now about sixteen hours away so they would be there around lunchtime tomorrow.He and Minnie would switch off piloting throughout the night and morning, for now he was quite comfortable in his chair.Minnie had managed to drag herself in as well and was snoring away beside him.Will knew Naomi had things well under control belowdecks but had whistled down to, first the mess, then the galley, then finally the crew cabins.As she finally answered they chatted for a bit, she let him know that everything and everyone were just fine.The chaperones were readying the kids for the evening and then bed, the excitement usually tired them out on the first day.¡°Let me know, if you need anything okay?¡±, he said then hung up the speaking tube.He still marvelled at it a bit, how this tech got here was an amazing thing.While commonplace on vessels from a certain age in his old world, he couldn¡¯t see how it had evolved here. Considering there was only one boat.¡°Another heading in the X files.¡±, he muttered.


    As the evening turned to night there was an exhibition of heat lightning far to the west of them.Thunder boomed, but very far off as well.There was no wind to speak off and the lake was nearly motionless.A very peaceful cruise so far and he hoped it stayed that way.The last couple of ore and coal runs had some pretty stormy weather.He knocked on wood quickly to avert ill luck.Not usually a believer in that sort of thing but the last few months had proven that there were definitely a lot more things in heaven and this earth to believe in.Putting on the kettle, making a pot of tea and he settled back to write his log.The wheelhouse windows were still open though, and the damp was beginning to come in, just the usual, nothing strange but he had to get up and snug them all closed.Covering Min with a blanket he went back to his notebooks.A quick note in the ships log about leaving on such and such day and time, then an entry with a journal number.That was where the trip would be recorded in much more detail.Names and ages of the crew, daily activities, meals, how much coal they loaded, he loved writing all this down.¡°Makes my hand hurt thinking about writing that much dad, glad you do that part.¡±, he jumped at Minnie¡¯s voice close to his ear.She had woken while he was intent on his journal and managed to surprise him.¡°Ack, why you do that?¡±, he asked.She tilted her head and thought for a second, ¡°Cause it¡¯s funny?¡±.¡°Yeah it is.¡±, Will replied with a laugh. As he was finished with his writing he closed up all the books and pulled out the cards, wiggled them at Minnie, then started dealing when she nodded.¡°I¡¯ll play a couple of hands, gotta check on Naomi soon though.¡±, she said.They fell into the easy routine they had, playing, talking of this and that, checking the heading, as night fell hard.


    The Rose was steaming along in a pool of light, from the lanterns on deck.The children were long in bed and the quiet was complete.Naomi had come up to join them.Greta and William had their charges well taken care of and were abed themselves.A tray of biscuits, an empty cake platter andteapot were on the tables between their deck chairs.They had managed to take care of another piece of cake each, finding the empty spots in their bellies.¡°I¡¯m never going to eat again.¡±, Minnie groaned. ¡°Aww is cake your weakness sweetie.¡±, Will asked.¡°Like that guy you told us about, what¡¯s he called Minnie, that flying guy?¡±, Naomi asked.¡°Oh yeah¡­umm Clark something, why?¡± Minnie said.¡°Well that guy had a weakness to some rock, remember?He got weak and sick and couldn¡¯t fly anymore.Maybe you¡¯re like that, except your weakness is cake.¡±, Naomi laughed.


    Will came back from visiting the head to find Naomi and Minnie cackling with laughter.¡°Oh oh, what did I miss?¡±, he asked.Minnie picked up the teapot and started poking him with it, ¡°Do you feel weaker now , hahaha I¡¯m taking over the boat, I¡¯m a villain now.¡±.He looked down at his little maniacal buddy, dancing around him, poking him with a teapot, he had no clue.Naomi joined in, attacking Minnie with a fragment of cake ¡°You¡¯re getting weaker now my pretty, mwahaha.¡±.The two of them collapsed with laughter as Will looked on.And then Minnie started it, ¡°Yaaawwnnnn.¡±, Naomi looked on in horror, tried her best but a jaw cracking ¡°Yaaawwnnn.¡± forced its way out.Both looked at Will and he could see Minnie counting, he just smiled and dipped his biscuits, nothing from him.Watching them yawning at each other was fun but they soon tired of it.Minnie decided to go to bed herself, after many reassurances from Will that he would be okay, and yes he¡¯d call her if he needed her, and he would remember to check the course.Naomi could see Min was worried, mostly about sleeping alone, ¡°You come sleep in my bed, we¡¯ll tell stories and cuddle all night.¡±.After a bone cracking hug from each he watched them shuffle down the deck, under the walkway with its swinging lantern.Giving an ethereal look and feel, as if in a wonderful dream that you never want to end.A dream about a magical boat, sailing an endless sea.Having adventures and meeting new people, going fishing, drinking tea, living forever with the ones you love, what a beautiful world that would be.

 Working Hard For a Living, Tomorrow.

    Chapter 42. Working Hard for a Living, Tomorrow.


    Steaming all through the night was not a new experience for Will, by now he had done this a few times and it really wasn¡¯t a hardship.The barges behaved, floating along behind in a nice little line.According to his charts they were now, as the sun was rising , six hours away from dropping anchor by the cairn.The calendar in the wheelhouse was a work of art.Painstakingly drawn by Minnie and captioned by Naomi, each day had something noted.What was planned or perhaps just a day off but there was always something.They marked off each day at sunrise, while they were travelling that is.Otherwise it was an evening thing.As Will marked an x through today he noted the date, December 8, nothing really special about it though.Minnie had drawn the three of them fishing around the Christmas tree, which was odd but cute.He didn¡¯t think that was going to happen, maybe the fishing part would, in fact that was a definite.Naomi had the weeks menu planned and today was a fish fry day, so everyone would be fishing.¡°Hope my lucks better, if Minnie skunks me again I¡¯ll¡­well I¡¯m not sure what I¡¯ll do but I¡¯ll do something.¡±, he muttered.


    He could hear stirrings from below, they¡¯re alive he thought.And the voice tube whistled, startling him.¡°Morning dad,¡± came a chirpy voice on the other end, ¡°I¡¯m sorry I slept so late, I meant to come up but I was soooo comfy.¡±.That¡¯s my girl, ¡°It¡¯s all good sweety, come up when you can.A whole bunch of nothing happened.¡±, Will told her.¡°I¡¯ll make us some toast, see you in three minutes.¡±, and she was gone.Looking around the wheelhouse he decided to give it a cleaning.Opening the door the sweet fresh air cleared any cobwebs he might have had.Sweeping out a bit of debris, mostly biscuit crumbs.Packing teacups onto a tray, folding several blankets and piling pillows into their cupboard.Tidying the map table, he found several notebooks open, these were closed up and shelved, except for one that was always in a pocket.Finishing just as Minnie arrived with toast and jam for both, and a fresh cuppa for him.¡°Wow, that waters smooth, what gives?¡±, she asked.Will shook his head, ¡°Hey I¡¯m not complaining, after the past few months this is like heaven.¡±.Minnie looked at him and asked through a bite of toast ¡°What¡¯s heaven?¡±.


    Ah.¡°Haven¡¯t we talked about that before?¡±, Will replied.¡°Nope, you said something was heavenly, but I forgot to ask what you meant.¡±, said Minnie.Where to start?Did he want to dive into the confusing world of religion, the belief system that many people lived their lives by?The same system that had caused so much confusion, misery, even wars, but also gave comfort and peace of mind.This was not an easy question, and there were no simple answers.Minnie gave him time, she could see he was thinking.¡°Some people, many people all over our old world, believe that when you die you go to this place where everything is perfect.¡±, he started,¡°You¡¯re reunited with people you have lost, friends and family are waiting for you there.¡±.He paused to think again, Minnie asked ¡°So what do they do all day?¡±, she asked.¡°It depends on who you ask, there were so many religions.And they all know they¡¯re right.¡± Will said.¡°Personally I think heaven will be where you are happy and content, doing what you like best.That¡¯s just me though.¡± he continued.¡°So this is heaven then?¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°I¡¯m with people I love, doing what I want, living happily.¡±.Will patted her shoulder ¡°Could be sweetheart, my life here is pretty well perfect too.¡±.


    There was a clatter of feet, slamming of doors and a stampede of teens cane onto the deck.Followed by William and Greta, trying to keep them under control.Will opened the wheelhouse door and called down the deck, ¡°Everyone wearing their lifebelts I hope.¡±.Most of the teens nodded but two turned and went back down below to fetch them.William went down with the two and Will could imagine the telling off they were getting.The speed of their passage was enough that sweaters were needed even though the sun was up, when it was higher it would be better but for now it was a bit cool.¡°No breakfast on deck today huh?¡±, Minnie asked, watching the shivering crew.¡°¡±Nope, tomorrow probably, we¡¯ll be there in a few hours. Hey Min, I¡¯m gonna go below for some clean clothes¡­you got this for a couple of hours.¡±, Will said with a stretch.¡°You bet dad, I got it.¡±, Minnie replied.As he left the wheelhouse and walked along the walkway he could see the coast was coming a bit easier to see, Minnie had steered a bit closer to shore than he did.Nothing wrong, just a different style of piloting.


    Going below brought the nearly tangible odour of bacon, something they had been missing for quite a while.Also coffee, strong coffee.Naomi must need it this morning he laughed to himself.Stopping by the galley he found her busy.Her two chosen aides working hard, helping where they could.She had set them to frying pancakes, there were several piles being kept warm in the ovens.Many more being cooked in the large cast iron pans.Several plates of bacon were ready as well, ¡°Hey there, how are you sweetie?¡± he asked.¡°Morning dad, just busy.A good night though, weird dream of something called ice cream.I don¡¯t even know what it is but I liked it.¡± she answered.¡°I think I¡¯ve mentioned it a few times, like frozen milk or cream, different flavours added, it¡¯s pretty good.¡±, he replied.¡°Are you going back up right away, or on a break.¡±, Naomi continued.Will stole a piece of bacon, yum, ¡°Bit of a break,clean clothes, cuppa, rest for an hour maybe.¡±.She nodded ¡°Good idea, when you go back up I¡¯ll send Minnie up a tray, you too k.¡±.Thanking her Will headed to his cabin.A quick wash and clean clothes made him feel a hundred percent better, but he still decided to lie down for a bit.It had been a long night and day, even though the water was smooth today piloting was still stressful, especially with all the youngsters on board.It seemed no time passed at all when he was woken by the voice tube whistle.Picking up he heard ¡°You awake down there, hellooo, are you there dad, I can hear you breathing.¡±, came Minnie¡¯s familiar once.¡°Yup I¡¯m here, you ready for breakfast?¡±, he replied.¡°Sure am, I¡¯m starved by the way, Naomi¡¯s got a tray ready for us, off you hop.¡±.And she capped off her end.Guess I¡¯ve been told he thought.


    Heading into the mess hall he found it full, the tables and benches that had been stacked against the walls were now used by the hungry hordes.Naomi saw him enter, waved and pointed at a covered tray that was sitting in his usual spot.He called his thanks over the happy kids and headed on deck.And as he got closer to the wheelhouse Minnie saw him coming and blasted on the steam whistle.She threw open the door and took the tray from him as he climbed up the last stair.¡°I thought I was gonna die, so hungry, I need bacon to give me strength, to fight the wolves.¡±, she exclaimed.¡°Who are you?¡±, Will asked, playing along.She struck a dramatic pose ¡°I am Minnie, a sailor, but right now food for wolf.¡±.They laughed, ¡°Ah that was always one of my favourites.¡± Will said uncovering the plates, ¡°I wonder if this world will ever have anything of the like?¡±.Minnie shrugged, mouthful of pancakes.She had drenched them in the thick golden syrup that she loved so, Will still preferred jam.¡°Did I ever mention that my dad liked lemon juice and sugar on his,¡± he pointed to his plate.¡°Sounds horrible, aren¡¯t they those sour things, like the¡­watchamacallits, the pineapples.¡±, she managed to answer.He nodded, ¡°A little bit, pineapples are much better though, you can just eat them raw, not lemons.¡±.¡°That¡¯s where we¡¯re going next right, to the south as far as we can, after Laketown though.¡±, Minnie asked.Will nodded, his own mouth full now, washing his bite down with tea, ¡°When we first got here Stephen mentioned that FarHarbour place, so yeah that¡¯s the next place.¡±.


    After their breakfast Will checked the course and adjusted a few degrees to the west.According to their numbers they should be in approximately the right place in two hours, the children were all on deck, such a novelty as this was not to be wasted staying below.Will was happy to see they were all wearing lifebelts now, the chances of falling overboard were slim, but still there was a chance.A rogue wave, too much horseplay, however the water was calm and any of the crew would be in after them in an instant so it would just be a bit of a shock.If the water was rough then, sadly, the teens would be banished below.The windows wide open Minnie was on the wheel while Will was sitting at the bow, just muddling away in his notebook.Jotting down this idea or that as they surfaced in his mind, brought on as he and Minnie talked of the days to come.The time passed, as it usually does.Like when you¡¯re waiting for the kettle to boil, watching it does no good.You have to forget you put it on in the first place and be pleasantly surprised when it sings away.Soon enough they saw a familiarity sight, the cairn they had built so many months ago.Still standing showing them they were in the right place.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    They continued on for a few minutes until the black line of coal showed on the shore.This was the place.It was time to start anchoring the barges, Will was at the helm and Minnie was vibrating with excitement.She wanted to see if she could jump from barge to barge like Naomi and Will had.¡°You¡¯ll be fine, just don¡¯t jump over the barge or dad will fall off his chair laughing.¡±, Naomi whispered to her.¡°I know, I know, but it¡¯s gonna be so much fun, I just want to go now.¡±, Minnie replied, whispering too.Will had slowed the Rose to a crawl and yelled out the wheelhouse door, ¡°All right, off you go, be careful.¡±.With those words Minnie gave a whoop , ran back a few steps and took a running jump off of the stern, followed by Naomi a few seconds later.It might have been a trait from what she used to be, a springiness perhaps but whatever it was it helped her make the twenty five foot jump to the first barge with ease.Naomi landed beside her.They looked at each other for a moment and burst out laughing.¡°That was so easy, let¡¯s get to the last one.¡±, Minnie said.And together they made the leap to the second barge, Minnie continued on to the third and readied the anchors to drop when Naomi pulled the tow line.She signalled she was ready and the line went slack, Min waited til the barge stopped and she dropped anchor, first port then starboard.Down down they went, until dragging then catching at the one hundred mark.Waving like a maniac she could see Will was circling around to pick her up to repeat the whole process.The Rose was churning along, dead slow, coming alongside of the now stationary barge, when it was close she leaped the twenty feet separating them.Success, another easy jump for her.She and Naomi repeated this twice more, then landed on the deck of the Rose with a flourish.The teenage crew had been watching in awe as the first and second mate had bounced from barge to barge.Will had brought the boat into a good position to drop anchor and after he turned the throttle to off Minnie dropped the anchors.And there they were, set for at least a week.¡°Okay peons, get to work, scrub that deck, set the mains, pump that bilge, careen that hull¡­and get it all done by dinner.¡±, Will called out as he left the wheelhouse.The kids looked at each other, did he mean it.Naomi threw herself in front of Will, arms raised, ¡°Run children, I¡¯ll hold him off.¡±.Sally raised her hand ¡°Captain, what¡¯s a peon?¡±, she asked tremulously.Will opened his mouth and laughed uproariously.Minnie too, ¡°Good one dad.¡±.¡°Just kidding guys, we can relax the rest of the evening.Start up gathering tomorrow, bright and early.Take the rest of the day off.¡±, he reassured them all.


    There were a few chores that needed doing before the crew could rest though.Boiler blown down, engine room swept and mopped out, lanterns filled and wicks trimmed, grill and smoker cleaned up.Finally the rebuilt boat was lifted out of the hold, they had three again.Smaller than the dory, but bigger than the original folding boat.It had been a crew project ever since the original had become sharp food.Davits had been built on the port and starboard sides and the two boats were hung with care.And as he read his log entry, about hanging with care, something had come up. Will had been heading to their lounge for a moment, he had the door open and several pairs of curious eyes had seen the Christmas tree in all its decorated glory, along with several wrapped presents underneath.He could feel the many questions simmering but dodged out of answering by telling the kids Naomi had just made shortbread and needed some testers.There would be a reckoning.


    After returning from her adventure on the barges Minnie was bursting with pride, ¡°Did you see me, I made it easy, I think I coulda made it to the end in one, it was so simple cause I¡¯m springy, hey I wonder if that¡¯s a talent I get like being jumpy or bouncy, maybe leapy, when we get to shore I¡¯m gonna see how far and how high, just so I know.¡±, she wound down. ¡°You and Naomi need to do that, for safeties sake..¡±, Will replied, ¡°Me too, it¡¯s easy to forget how much we¡¯ve changed until we try something like this, gotta be careful.¡±.


    As it was just past lunchtime, the the teens were learning to relax while on the water.Getting used to the boat rocking, sound of the water and wind had been harder on some than others.The older ones, Greta and William, had been helpful in every way in helping the more nervous ones feel comfortable.The weather was cooperating too, Will couldn¡¯t imagine any of the kids being too comfortable in the weather that was much much farther north.It was all right for the crew, they were well seasoned now, but to run a gathering operation in those seas would be very difficult indeed.Tremendous waves had been hard enough on passengers, at times all they could do was lay in the bunks and wait for the trip to be over.Will would never put these young people through that, if he had a choice that is.Sometimes the weather didn¡¯t cooperate and was that ever an understatement if he ever wrote one.As he wrote he could hear the laughter and talking coming from midships, talking about the work to come.Who was going to gather the most, who was going to eat the most, simple things like that.It was nice to hear they were just normal kids at heart.


    ¡°Dad I¡¯m hungry.¡±, Minnie announced as she sat beside him on deck, mid decks this time. Checking the sun Will figured it was a couple of hours til dinner, ¡°Go get some bread and butter, or some biscuits maybe.¡± he said, ¡°It¡¯s pretty close to dinner, you don¡¯t want to ruin your appetite.¡±. Then he started laughing til he had tears, when Minnie asked he explained. ¡°I¡¯ve said those words thousands of times, never works though, kids always didn¡¯t eat their dinner, then wanted more snacks later.¡±. ¡°Well I always eat my dinner, I just feel like a snack¡­ack what are you doing?¡±. Will had reached out and squeezed her arm, ¡°You don¡¯t feel like a snack, maybe something boney, like a rib. Nom nom. Come here you I need a snack now.¡±. She laughed, ¡°Funny pop, real funny.¡±. A thought struck Will, he pulled out his notebook and wrote for a few seconds. Minnie waited patiently. ¡°Can you go ask Naomi if she has any dried corn, like for grinding. If she does bring that, a large covered pot and some oil?¡±, Will asked Minnie. She was off in a sec, without waiting for any explanation. A few minutes passed, she returned with the supplies, and Naomi. Heading to the bow he loaded some kindling into the small potbelly stove beside the grill, it only took a few minutes and the stove was hot. Pouring a bit of oil into the large cast pot and resting it on the top grate. Hearing the oil had heated up enough he dumped a cup of the dried corn in and put the lid on again. ¡°So we¡¯re gonna eat that, looks a bit icky.¡±, Minnie started to say but was interrupted by a pop from inside the pot. ¡°What in in the world was that?¡±, Naomi said but stopped when more pops and cracks from inside. Will laughed and slid and shook the pot some more. He did this until there were no more noises from inside. Setting it to one side and carefully cracked the lid. From inside he poured out the white fluffy goodness into a waiting bowl and tossed it lightly with salt. ¡°Try that out.¡±, he told Minnie. She gingerly put a single piece into her mouth and chewed. Hey eyes widened , she grabbed a handful and tossed it in, ¡°This is, this stuff, I love it.¡±. Naomi had been waiting to see if Minnie keeled over, now that she survived she also took a smaller handful and ate a couple of kernels, then wolfed down the rest, ¡°Oh, we have got to have more of this, it¡¯s just dried corn, amazing.¡±. Will had one more trick. He asked Greta to run to the galley and bring up a crock of butter and a small pan. When she returned he melted a generous amount of butter and poured it over the popcorn. Minnie tried this new twist, ¡°it¡¯s good, make more Naomi, make more.¡±, she was nearly begging, it was so tasty. The smell of this new treat was so familiar to Will, and as it wafted across the boat the children began sniffing the air and looking for the source. Naomi had taken over the popping work and had delegated Will to go get enough bowls so everyone could have a serving.


    As everyone, well mostly everyone, was enjoying this new snack Will was discussing toppings with Minnie. She was still eating popcorn with butter but was interested in the sweet and salty kind that Will mentioned. ¡°A little more work, put sugar in with the oil and pop it, or sprinkle it with just about anything, it¡¯s a fun snack.¡±, he said. Naomi noticed he wasn¡¯t eating any, ¡°You don¡¯t like it dad?¡±, she asked. He shook his head ¡° Not really, the smell is strong and it¡¯s a bit greasy. Just not my thing, when I was younger I would have it sometimes.¡±. He thought for a bit, ¡°Now potato chips, that¡¯s my weakness. So first you slice the spud really thin, using a mandolin, then you¡­

 A Gathering We Go

    Chapter 43. A Gathering We Go


    The fish and chips were a happy memory as the boat started waking the next day.Will was up with the sun, eager to get to work and had been on deck with a mug of tea when Minnie joined him.¡°Morning dad, you sure sneaked out early.¡±, she said, sitting beside him looking out over the stern.¡°Ah, it¡¯s such a beautiful day I didn¡¯t want to miss a minute.¡±, he responded.¡°And you were thinking of something, weren¡¯t you.¡±, she pointed to his open notebook.He laughed ¡°You know me so well huh, and yeah I was.¡±.He pointed to a drawing he had been working on, ¡° I really think we could do a zip line to bring the ore bags to the barges, one by one.Any of the three of us could easy slide the bags hard enough to get this far, especially if it was downhill a bit.¡± Will pointed out his drawing as be explained.Minnie nodded ¡°Only as long as it was fairly smooth waters, too rough and the rope would snap, oh wait I see what you did with that spring.¡±.She hmmmed a bit ¡°That would take care of a slack line too, keep it taut.¡±.Nodding he pointed out that it would be much quicker than rowing a boatload out.¡°We¡¯ll have to set up some kind of mast on the barges, a temporary one, and one of us will have to come out here to grab the bags, or buckets as they come in.¡±, Minnie added.Well he hadn¡¯t thought of that, if we have to row out to catch the ore, we might just as well load the boats.He balled up his drawing and sighed, ¡°I guess not everything has to be improved on.¡±.


    Will and Minnie went back below after hearing the temporary crew was up.The mess was full of happy kids, a bit nervous but that was to be expected.They knew what was going on, what they were expected to do, just pre work jitters.Naomi and her helpers had a full breakfast today, eggs, fried ham and potatoes.Toast and jam, gallons of juice and milk.The room got a bit quiet when Will came in but when he just sat at the crew table and poured a cuppa everyone relaxed a bit.¡°Am I that much of an ogre, they¡¯re all scared?¡±, he whispered to Minnie.¡°Nah,¡± she laughed, ¡°it¡¯s a respect thing, I talked with a couple, actually with all of them and the Rose and crew are like¡­I don¡¯t know how to explain it.¡±.Two plates slid in front of them, looking up Will saw a smiling Naomi.¡°Morning dad, Minnie, what are you guys plotting?¡±, she asked.Will shrugged ¡°Minnie was just telling me that the kids think we¡¯re like legends or myths, does that sound right?¡±.Minnie nodded her head, mouth full of eggs.Naomi as well ¡°We do, the captain and crew of the Rose has always been special.We seem to be extra special, and what we did yesterday only made them believe it more.¡±.Will could accept that, he guessed.Put that way.¡°Is there any way to quietly put the word out not to be scared or nervous, I¡¯m a friendly guy.¡±.She thought for a moment, ¡°I¡¯ll just talk with Sally and Mike, they¡¯ll tell everybody everything anyway.¡±.He raised his eyebrows, she laughed, ¡°The galley help for this trip, Sally is a gem, you know that.And Mike is a hard worker so far.¡±.She got back up, ¡°See you guys later, I smell burning toast.¡±, and she ran to the galley.


    The two long tables were full, seven seats at each, one was empty at both though, the gallery help hadn¡¯t sat to eat yet.Will and Minnie made quick work of their own food and were going over the days schedule.¡°Three boats are nice to have, we can each take a load, quicker yeah.¡±: Minnie said, finishing up a final piece of toast.¡°Oh yeah, you and Naomi take crew with you, I¡¯ll bring all the usual.Then use the dory to bring coal to the barges.¡±.He noticed one of the teens had raised a hand, William quickly intervened but he asked what was up.¡°Well captain, Andy here was wondering why the bigger boat is called a dory.¡±.Wills eyes lit up, he loved telling stories like this.¡°In the world we come from there are many different countries.One of these is a place called Nicaragua, in their language dori means canoe or something like.That name just started being used for this type of boat.¡±.Another hand was raised, this time it was Sally who had just sat down with her breakfast, ¡°What do you mean different language, didn¡¯t they all speak the same one?¡±.What a good question, Will had no idea, ¡°I don¡¯t really know why, but I do know there¡¯s seven thousand different languages spoken on our old world, strange huh.¡±.He could see the children were struggling with this concept, there was really no comparison.¡°It¡¯s only one here, right?¡±, Minnie asked Naomi.She nodded ¡°Yup, even though we¡¯re far apart, we still speak the same language.¡±.So different and then so much the same in many ways Will thought.


    ¡°I think before the Sundering we were all one people, then we were separated during the upheavals.¡±, Naomi said, ¡°At least that¡¯s what the legends say.¡±.Well, it was a bit of an understatement to say Will was interested in that.¡°I¡¯ve never heard that before, the Sundering is it?Tell me more, no wait.We don¡¯t have the time right now.Tonight, tell me everything.¡±.She laughed, she knew this was going to nibble away at him all day.Minnie knew it too, ¡°He¡¯s going to go mad before dinner, you watch,pop and that¡¯s it dad, game over.¡±.Will just snorted at her and finished his last cuppa, ¡°Time to get to it, finish up, get ready.¡±.When he stood up so did Minnie, the teens hurriedly finished their meal, plates were gathered upby Naomi and Sally.Mike was already hard at work over the sinks, washing and scrubbing.Will left the galley in Naomi¡¯s capable hands, he and Minnie headed down one deck to the storerooms.¡°We getting the outdoor stuff right?¡±, Minnie asked him.He nodded ¡°Yup, tents, stoves, tables chairs, it¡¯s all marked in crates remember.¡±.¡°Oh yeah, I got it.¡±.She started hefting the crates on to her shoulder and set them in the fore hold.A pallet and a cargo net were ready and Will had opened the bay doors above.Sunlight flooded down in to the depths of the boat.¡°Beautiful day Minnie, great way to start.¡±, Will said.They piled the equipment onto the pallets, tied the net around, Minnie crouched and jumped up onto the deck, then cranked up the net, including Will.The various crates, bundles and boxes were then loaded into the dory and the two of them sat on the stern benches waiting for the rest.In dribs and drabs the rest came on deck, wearing life belts and work clothes, ready to work.While they were waiting Minnie and Will had lowered the other boats and checked the anchors.When everyone was ready they boarded and they pushed off and away, heading to shore.


    Of course it was a race between Naomi¡¯s boat and Minnie¡¯s, oddly enough it was a dead tie.The boats hit the beach in a splash of water and sand and came to a stop nearly out of the water.As soon as she was out of the boat Minnie was looking, under rocks, in tide pools.For her elusive little friends, the crabs.Will was unloading the dory and the teens were carrying the equipment to where they had decided to set up the camp.As soon as all the tents for supply storage, the tables and chairs and the outdoor stoves were in place it was time to start gathering.¡°Hey Minnie.¡±, Will called out.¡°Yeah dad?¡±, she answered from behind.¡°Ahh, stop doing that, let¡¯s separate the crews and get to it..¡±, Will managed to get out, she had startled him.She nodded and called out ¡°Let¡¯s go guys, and her team picked up their gear and headed to the coal deposit.As she and her team walked towards the coal seam Will had to laugh, every sun hat the teens were wearing had a happy face neatly painted on. Will took his team to the deposit as well and work commenced.Making sure everyone had their safety equipment on, and weren¡¯t loading too much, he and Minnie took the filled bags to the dory and packed them in.After the disastrous wave had carried away much of their bags before, Will had ordered five times as many.This enabled him to dump the coal into the barges hold and the crew could keep gathering and not wait for empty bags.


    Looking at the shoal Will could see the stuff was being pushed out of the ground, then into the lake.Like a slow, very slow motion landslide.He and Minnie were working too.Smashing large masses into easily gathered pieces was easy work for them and if they were not needed for this, they would load up bags as well.The first load was ready to be taken out so Will rowed while Minnie readied the bags to be craned up to the barge.Between the two it was quick work and before long they were skimming back to shore, for the next load.The morning progressed and Will and Minnie had taken three big loads out. At noon the dinner bell rang out and was very welcome to the hungry kids.Not that they weren¡¯t used to hard work, this was just different to working on the family farm, or in the shops.As Will looked over he was musing, ¡°Maybe we should supply coveralls so they don¡¯t ruin their own clothes.¡±, he thought aloud.¡°Good idea, Sally was complaining about her pants getting wet.¡±, Minnie told him.Making a note of this in his book, three sizes of the, ¡°Coveralls or overalls?¡±, he asked.¡°Overalls, definitely overalls.¡±, Minnie answered.He nodded and continued writing.So three sizes of the things, looking over at the kids there weren¡¯t really any little ones.Small for their age that is.Couple of bigger ones, but mostly all about the same.¡°This will make Darren¡¯s day, he¡¯ll be busy for a while now.¡±, Naomi said.She had looked over at his notes, ¡°Make them baggy.¡±, she suggested, ¡°They can slip them on over their own clothes or just wear these.¡±.Minnie added ¡°We should get a few too, my clothes get mucky while we do this, can never get the coal goo out either.¡±.Will made a note of that too, Darren was going to be very busy.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    After lunch it was back to work and by quitting time a total of six loads had been dumped into the first barges hold, it was just under half full.A rough calculation showed they would be heading home in ten days, if the weather held that is.Before heading back to the Rose for dinner and relaxing, there was a bit of work to do on shore.The gathering gear was piled into one of the sturdy canvas tents, and the tables, chairs, stoves and other equipment into two others.Laced up and secure for the night the weary crew rowed back to the Rose.According to the menu it was shepherds pie tonight, a nice easy meal.Quick to prepare but much appreciated.Between Naomi and her helpers and Wills helping hands the four large pans were prepared and baking away in a short time.Minnie was taking charge of the crew and making sure everyone washed up after a hard days work.Lounging on deck, still wearing lifebelts though, or waiting for dinner in the mess, it was a quiet boat.This would change but the first couple of days were always tough, just getting in the routine.


    The ringing of the dinner bell echoed through and over the boat and everyone quickly showed up to the mess.Each table had fresh rolls and tubs of butter, jugs of milk and juice, and the large steaming roasters full of shepherds pie. Before starting Will had a few words.¡°A good days work, well done all.Thanks to Naomi and her crew for keeping us fed and watered today, and for dinner tonight.We¡¯ll be together for a few days, so let¡¯s keep this positive attitude going.Now dig in.¡±.Minnie nearly dived for the serving spoon and loaded her plate with a healthy dollop, doused it in gravy and attacked.Greta and William made sure everyone had as much as they wanted.They were taking their chaperone duties very seriously and had done well so far.It was sad, Will thought, that some of these kids would never set foot on the water again.


    Sometimes he wondered if being around the three of them could grant permanent immunity, like being around Minnie and himself had helped Naomi.An interesting idea, but what if it didn¡¯t take.What if the waters effects came back and the Roses crew wasn¡¯t there to help.Bearing the guilt, the responsibility for any accidents was not something he really wanted.This way of life had worked here for a long while, why mess with it.No, this was the way things were, he might be the captain of the heartboat but that didn¡¯t give him the right to change their world.He was jarred out of his deep thoughts by a poke in the side.Minnie had noticed he hadn¡¯t eaten yet and was giving him a look, ¡°Wakey wakey, did you want dinner tonight of just going to stare into your notebook?¡±, she whispered.¡°Oh yes, definitely dinner, load me up please.¡±, he said with a smile.


    Even though the cold weather was far north of here the short days were not.The sun had been setting when they came back to the boat and now it was full night.Chilly enough for a sweater and long pants, at least for most, Will was quite comfortable in his shorts still.So was Minnie but her fur helped.But he did wear a new sweater, a gift from an admirer that had been dropped off at the quay one night.It was common for the crew to find gifts like this or baked goods, tokens of appreciation from the townsfolk.They tried to wear what they received while about town but sometimes Will had to draw a line.Knitted or crocheted shorts were not his idea of comfort and Minnie had nearly died laughing when he tried a newly gifted pair on.Naomi had tried to hold it back but had finally burst out laughing as well with a ¡°Please go and change, you look like a ¡­well I¡¯m not sure what but it¡¯s awful.¡±.So those shorts and several others went into a bin, Will was not sure what to do with them.Unravel them and reuse the wool?Then what, he might have an affinity for knitting but had never tried in his entire life.So into storage they went.


    As the evening had turned to night the two chaperones started encouraging the teens to get ready for sleep.Washing up, brushing teeth then crawling into the comfy bunks.It didn¡¯t take long to drop off with the gentle rocking and soon after it was just the three of them sitting in the now quiet mess, finishing off a game of crib.Minnie and Naomi were very competitive in their games, Will just enjoyed playing.As it was Minnie was one point from winning but Naomi counted first and was also very close only needing ten points for the win.¡°You¡¯re going slow on purpose, you know I¡¯ve got you this time.¡±, Minnie growled.Naomi shook her head ¡°Nuh uh, oh look you made me lose count, I¡¯ll have to start again.Fifteen two, fifteen four, a pair is six¡­ummm, fine that¡¯s it.¡±.¡°Good game guys.¡±, Will said as Minnie pegged her last point and did a little happy dance, ¡°Anyone for more tea?I¡¯m going to have one more before bed.¡±.As he stood up to fill the pot in the galley Minnie said she would have one, then laughed when he asked ¡°One lump or two?¡±.¡°Nah, just kidding, it¡¯s all yours.¡±, she replied.Naomi shook her head and yawned, ¡°I¡¯m going to turn in, busy day tomorrow you know.¡±.She hugged Will and Minnie good night, then was off.Minnie looked at Will, ¡°Up on deck for one last check?¡±.How well she knew him ¡°Of course.¡±.And as they climbed the stairs it was still a treat not to have towear all the winter clobber.


    ¡°Oh what a beautiful night dad, lookit the stars.¡± exclaimed Minnie as she stood at the rail.The land was invisible in the darkness surrounding them, no moon tonight.It truly was a fine night, broad swatches of stars blazed across the sky, as if they were floating through instead of merely under.No threatening clouds full of snow or rain, the next few days were going to be perfect.


    And back in Laketown


    ¡°I know what I saw Stephen.¡±, said Lorenzo.He was standing behind the counter in his shop, ¡°it was a small orange person, with pointed ears and an evil smile, he was carrying a bag full of my cheese and climbed up the wall and was gone in a puff of smoke.¡±.Regina snorted ¡°Sounds like acheese dream to me.¡±.What¡¯s a cheese dream, Stephen wondered, but Regina had a point.Lorenzo was a bit excitable and liked his cheese washed down with wine.¡°One of the old stories come to life hmmm.¡±, Stephen asked aloud.The other man nodded , ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it exactly.The little folk are tired of being ignored for all these years, now they¡¯re back and full of mischief.¡±.¡°Please at least try to be serious, no such thing, never was.Just our superstitious ancestors.¡±, Regina said.


    As they were meeting in Lorenzo¡¯s store her own smokehouse was under attack.She had put bars on the windows, and the door was closed with a strong bolt, everything looked to be secure in the small shack behind the tavern.But there was a slight gap between boards on the floor and it was getting wider as something pushed and pried underneath the floor.¡°If you push right there, while I pull..there we are brother, success!¡±, was whispered quietly as the board popped up granting full access to the smoked delights within.A bag was tossed up first, then another and two figures climbed up, hardly visible in the blacked out room.¡°Oh my, smell those sausages, they will be wonderful with the cheese, make sure to take plenty.¡±, was whispered across the room.¡°What¡¯s that, no it¡¯s fine, we¡¯re not stealing, just buying without paying.He will take care of it when we see him.Remember, the other told us we would all meet again.Now go and fill your bag but be quiet, you know how you get when you¡¯re hungry.¡±.Without a noise the two shadows glided around the room, liberating several meals of smoked yumminess.When their bags were full they left the same way they entered.The only sign they had been there was a slightly askew board that would be stepped back into place in the morning.


    Back on the Rose


    Now the entire ships company was asleep.Minnie and Will had done their check and everything on deck was safe and secure.After admiring the night sky a little longer they too had gone below to prepare for the night.Minnie had fluffed her pillows and quilts into the perfect positions, tossed her clothes into the laundry bin and curled into bed.Wills jaw dropped when he saw that happen but realized they probably went in by accident.He too readied for bed but was mostly a back sleeper and didn¡¯t really like too many bed clothes, one quilt was fine but no more.He closed his eyes and threw that switch¡­


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 39/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 48/50


    Stamina 48/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Intelligence 21/25


    Strength 24/25


    Vitality 24/25


    Stamina 24/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 36/50


    Strength 38/50


    Vitality 38/50


    Stamina 42/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    As he drifted off to sleep his last thought was, ¡®Wasn¡¯t I going to ask Naomi something¡­.¡¯

 The Sundering

    Chapter 44. The Sundering.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen it rain this hard.¡±, Minnie said, sitting under the walkway.Will had to agree, it was coming down in buckets.They were sitting in deck chair¡¯s, completely protected, but the Rose was actually rocking under the force of the drops.Not hail, nor sleet or frozen rain, just plain old water torrenting down.¡°We¡¯ll be pumping the bilge by noon at this rate.¡±, Will sighed.¡°Oh yuck, let¡¯s get the kiddies doing that, tell them it¡¯s so much fun, or has to be done or else, dunno or else what but we could find something horrible.¡±, Minnie argued.Laughing, Will shook his head, ¡°We can¡¯t do that, sorry sweetie.¡±.Naomi came and joined them ¡°Can¡±t do what now?¡± Before Will could answer Minnie replied ¡°Dad wanted to make the poor kids pump out the bilge, I tried to argue with him but he was like nah, they¡¯re gonna do it or else.¡±.Naomi gasped with horror ¡°You monster, those poor innocent children, by the way I heard you both while I was coming up here.Nice try.¡±.Minnie shrugged, ¡°Oh well, next time.What¡¯re we going to do today, I don¡¯t think we are going to get much coal.¡±.¡°Yeah that¡¯s out, not many chores to do onboard either.Hard to have a lazy day with all the children around.¡±, Will was at a loss.Naomi smiled ¡°You forgot to ask me about something yesterday, last night really.¡±.Hmmm Will had a think about this.¡°Was it about Minnie skipping laundry detail?¡±.He got poked in the ribs, that wasn¡¯t it.¡°If we found a turkey for our Christmas dinner?¡±.This time Naomi shook her head.Then it hit him.¡°Oh right, I was going to ask you about the, I can¡¯t remember the name.¡±.


    He got comfortable on his deck chair, checked that his tea was hot, notebook ready, no rain getting on them.Minnie nearly laughed at his preparations but she knew his ways.Naomi started.¡°Now this is mostly legends about our world.There isn¡¯t really any evidence except for the way it is.¡±.She went on¡­


    Our history has been passed on from mother to daughters.There were no books until a hundred years ago, so it was songs aboutthe world.Learned and practiced while we are young, sung to each other while working.Living on the water, on the shores, we were fisher folk, hunters and gatherers, until that day.We remember there was a light in the sky, starting where the sun rises.For a time there were two suns, then the noises came, they didn¡¯t know what it was but the dust rose and blanketed the sky.There were screams of rage and anger, roars of pain, shouted by giants or demons.All the horrors, all the legends of our past came to life.Raging across the lands, ripping the mountains down and clawing the earth deep and dark.Until our familiar world was no more.Eventually the warring titans left or died, the lost fallen to dust and rot.The lake or ocean, whatever you call it, changed to what it is now.Poisoned and lost to us.Never fish or swim again, our songs changed.Sadness and loss were taught, the future was bleak.


    It was dark for weeks, the crops died and most of the animals on land.Dust swirled over all, the people huddled in what was left of villages, some in caves in the new mountains.The supplies were gone, the people were dying.No hope.


    That long last night.Some hoped never to wake, to have to face the struggle of life, to raise their children in a world of nothing.A wind blew outside, all night long.The low breeze was somehow comforting.Some of the sleepers dreamed of hearing a voice, a sad voice promising the world would be healed, that the air would be sweet, the rivers and streams pure and full of life.That the lake, now forbidden to the people, would have a new purpose.


    ¡°Hold on.¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°They heard an actual voice, telling them this?¡±.Naomi shrugged ¡°It¡¯s a story from a long long time ago, three hundred years.Who knows?¡±.¡°Okay, go on.¡±, Will said.


    When the next morning came the air was clean again, not choked with dust.The sun shone down on a changed world.What had been barren fields were now orchards, trees heavy with fruit.The fields were no longer trampled muddy pits but full of crops, wheat, corn ready to harvest.A gift or an apology from the gods, maybe.The waters of the lake however were changed.The peoples had gathered near the lake to wash on the familiar beaches were suddenly overcome with the miasma and had to flee.Over time they got used to this part of their lives being gone.Becoming farmers not fisherfolk.Adventurous souls travelled the coast but found there was no way past the barriers that had been raised.Tremendous canyons, impassable rivers, mountains where none had been before.No way past to visit the other communities, all were cut off and alone now.


    For nearly a hundred years the world went on.Things changed, farms flourished and so did the people.The turmoil of the past was not exactly forgotten but was sunk deep in peoples minds.Those times were gone, when history started to be written those events became legends.Stories to scare children with while sitting around a campfire.The songs of the elders were written down and taught no more.Life went on, civilization grew.The single town became larger and a network of farms and communes grew.Out from the forbidden lake, spreading over the fertile lands.


    Then one day something happened, something amazing.It was an early spring day, crops had been planted, lambs and calves born. A loud sound echoed over and over, a trumpet blast coming from the lake.When the people of what was now called Laketown rushed to see, an incredible sight met them.A boat, a wondrous boat.Under full sail she was cruising toward the abandoned beach.Her name proudly blazoned on her hull, the Rose had arrived.


    Naomi had been talking for a while.William had joined them and had added some interesting points as well.The ore deposits had been discovered, very poor ones near his town of Newton but they were there.The fact that the young could go on the waters, and that the captain of the Rose was immune to the miasma.These men and women could bring the young people aboard with no ill effects.It took time to work out but work it out they did.The ship brought back what the growing towns needed.¡°I remember the Rose having sails before.¡±, Will said.This startled William, that was ancient history to him, then Minnie added something else.¡°Before that she was rowed somehow, that¡¯s a really deep memory though, hard to get at.¡±.Naomi nodded, ¡°It¡¯s still weird to do that, I don¡¯t feel right for a while after.¡±.Will had to agree, it was an odd feeling.


    He had managed to take a few notes and was eager to get back to Newton to find any books on the¡­, ¡°What did you call it again, that time?¡±, he asked.¡°The sundering.¡±, William answered.¡°Well as you can imagine I have a ton of questions but they¡¯re going to have to wait.¡±, he pointed to wards the shore, ¡°Gathering takes priority, the rains quit and the suns out.Let¡¯s hit the beach for a few hours.¡±.


    The tents had kept all the supplies dry, mostly.Some clothes were damp from touching the tent walls, that had wicked moisture from inside.Will remembered his wife talking about that, she had been a guide leader for years and knew all the ins and outs of tent camping.But opening the tent flaps and letting the wind blow in and through would clear out all the moisture.A clothesline had been hung and the damp gear was drying nicely.The teens were working away, one boatload had been dumped already and Will hoped to get at least two more today.Naomi had planned to use the last of their fresh meat today, cheeseburgers, or plain for those that don¡¯t care for cheese.And camp potatoes, a favourite of the crew.Perhaps gingerbread or a nice fruitcake for afters, it was up to the cooks.


    As they walked the gathering area he or Minnie would smash the coal deposits into small pieces that were easily gathered.No point in hundred pound lumps being levered into the bags.They were talking about the stories that they had been told.¡°Have you ever heard of that kind of thing happening before?¡±, Minnie asked.Will nodded, breaking a massive block with a easy blow, ¡°The old world had many legends, religions told stories of divine beings helping or interfering with people.One story had the whole world destroyed by a flood, except for one family who saved all the animals in a giant boat.¡±.Mins eyes widened ¡°Must have been a big boat.¡±.They gathered the glistening coal into a bag, lugged it to the pile by the shore and started loading the dory.A few minutes later they were tossing bags from the boat into the hold of the barge.Still talking of myths and legends.¡°He was forty axe handles high and had a blue ox for a pet?Weird.¡±, Minnie was a bit suspicious of the stories.¡°I think a lot of these stories just grew out of real life events, there might have been a big lumberjack and people just told stories about him.¡±, Will explained.¡°Like fishing, the fish get bigger and there¡¯s more every time you tell the tale.Or your just having fun with the new person, and you joke around with them to take it easy.¡±.Minnie asked ¡°Like when you asked Naomi to go fetch you ten yards of shoreline or a jug of fresh prop wash?¡±.¡°I was just kidding around with her, having fun.She was pretty nervous the first couple of trips.¡±. Will replied.They were sitting in the dory, rowing back slowly, cruising along the coastline, making sure everything was okay near the working kids.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    The afternoon sun was getting low on the horizon when Will called quitting time.They had managed four full loads and the first barge was getting full, one more load would do it.Things were going along quite well even with the wet start today.The weary teens doffed their gathering gear and hung it in the on shore tents and piled into the boats for a quick trip back to the Rose.Dinner would be along a little after sundown but there were ample snacks to tide them over until then.Will had asked Minnie to make a potato slicing mandolin, to slice the spuds very thin.He had a surprise planned for the weekend, in a couple of days.But tonight was business as usual.The children were encouraged to have a good wash, shower if they needed to and dump dirty clothes in the laundry room.A rota had been established for laundry duty and it didn¡¯t take long to cycle a few loads through and get them hang drying in the holds.Minnie had taken charge of this and had helped the kids throughout.She really liked working with the littles.Will was in the galley helping with meal prep, a chore he delighted in.


    As he peeled, chopped, sliced, diced he also asked more about the sundering.¡°Is there any physical evidence left of the, what did you call them, the creatures that nearly wrecked the world?¡±.William answered that one, he had been hanging around the galley trying to catch Naomi¡¯s eye.¡°There were some bones, in the fields east of Newton.Huge things, longer than a tall tree and as big around as barrels.Dad said they were from the Enders , but it could have been anything.¡±.Will picked up that word immediately ¡°Enders hmmm, rings a bell but I can¡¯t quite place it.That¡¯s how your history refers to them, the Enders?¡±.Willam nodded ¡°Dad was annoyed a few years ago.The teachers, elders, they decided not to teach about those years anymore.They said it was pointless, it probably never happened anyway.¡±, he sighed, ¡°That¡¯s when mom left, she was one of the people that didn¡¯t want anyone to know about that time.¡±.Naomi patted his shoulder, ¡°That¡¯s sad, that she left you too.Now quite enough moping, go check that Minnie¡¯s finished up with your group and tell Greta she can get her kids cleaned up.¡±.She shooed him out, turned to Will with a laugh.¡°He¡¯s like a puppy, always under foot but too cute to get angry at.Greta will have her hands full with him.¡±.¡°Those two are a couple, Ithought he liked you a bit.¡±, he teased.¡°Nah.Not for me.¡± she cut her eyes at Sally and Mike who hadn¡¯t said a word but heard everything.¡°And you two, keep what you hear to yourselves, got it?¡±.Will gave them a bit of a glare and they nodded in a hurry, ¡°We will, no tale telling from us, right Mike?¡±, Sally said.


    ¡°Did that happen in Laketown too, no more stories from those times allowed?¡±, Will asked after a few moments working quietly.¡°In a way yes, not discouraged just not¡­it¡¯s hard to describe.Everyone got on living in that changed world and the times before were like a dream.The more you try to remember, it just slips away.¡±, Naomi replied.Sally piped up ¡°We learned in school but only for one day.The teachers always bring it up near the end of school, before harvest, we get time off then cause lots of us have to help on farms, we don¡¯t, Howard and me, cause we have cows and you don¡¯t harvest them.¡±. She took a breath, still kneading the dough for dinner rolls, then went on.¡°They tell us what happened, like Naomi said, we can ask questions for a while then it¡¯s done, one teacher told us he didn¡¯t think it really happened, that it was just a story.¡±.Mike finally spoke up, ¡°I was there when he did that, he got told off by some of the other teachers, now he¡¯s not a teacher anymore.¡±.Naomi laughed, ¡°Got what he deserved.¡±.Will had to agree, he had encountered deniers before.People that, for some reason, didn¡¯t believe some event or some fact was real.In the face of overwhelming evidence they would still dig in their heels and say it was faked or never happened.He made a note to check in the booksellers when they got back to Newton.


    Minnie popped her head in, ¡°Anymore biscuits?There¡¯s none left in the mess and I¡¯m dying, laundry nearly did me in, it was horrible.¡±.Naomi reached into the jar that she kept on the counter for emergencies and took out one.Minnie¡¯s eyes widened ¡°One?If I take one biscuit out there they might start to eat me.¡±.Her ears drooped, tail down, chin quivering, big brown eyes began to swim with tears.¡°Oh my, I can¡¯t stand it, take the jar but just stop it.¡±, laughed Naomi handing the biscuits to her.¡°Hurray, thanks, hey how long til food?¡± Minnie asked on her way out.Will looked around ¡°I¡¯ll be tossing burgers on the grill in twenty minutes, wanna help?¡±.¡°Oh yeah, that way I get dibs.¡±, and she was gone.¡°Eating on deck or in the mess?¡± Will asked.Naomi thought for a second, ¡°On deck, I like all the fresh air we can get.¡±.He nodded ¡°I¡¯ll get the tables set up.¡±.


    He gathered up two volunteers and they piled tables on chairs in a cargo net and lifted it up.The lake was calm tonight but it was nearly full dark, next chore was lantern lighting.Will always marvelled at the way the deck lanterns came on with just a pull cord.The igniters had been a little finicky but Minnie had tinkered with them and now they were perfect.They also hung a few small lanterns along the rails and lit the big bow light as well.While the two lads, Sigurd and his brother Bjorn set up the tables, Will lit the grill.Sally and Mike had come up with trays carrying condiments, silverware, then back down for plates.Then the covered pans of burgers.Minnie had joined him and together they put the first load of meat on the sizzling grill.¡°Oooh, that smells wonderful dad, let¡¯s test one out real quick, make sure it¡¯s good, okay.¡±, Minnie asked.She got no argument from Will and a few minutes later they were heroically testing the first burger to make sure it was safe.


    As Will watched the kids make several trips up on deck he was thinking of a way to put in a dumbwaiter system, but then realized there wasn¡¯t much point.There were so many willing helpers that any chore was done in minutes.Sally let him know that Naomi was ready to bring up the potatoes.He pointed to the dinner bell, she broke out in a smile and started hammering on it.With a stampede of feet and whoops the hungry teens arrived on deck.Greta and William keeping a firm hand, sending back three with no lifebelts, the same ones as before.Will wasn¡¯t sure if it was forgetting or just not caring, he would have a word about it.


    As the meat cooked Minnie flipped them and slapped a slice of cheese on top, Will toasted the buns and then put it all together into the glory that is the cheeseburger.Minnie yelled out that the first set was ready, Mike popped up to grab them.Carefully holding the loaded tray he made his way back to the tables and Naomi doled out dinner.¡°Should we test another one, I¡¯m not sure about the cheese.¡± Minnie worried.¡°Definitely, I wasn¡¯t sure about the buns, one looked weird, make it a double though.¡±, Will laughed.Naomi came over to see what they were laughing about, ¡°Are you guys testing the food, to see if it¡¯s okay.Better let me check it too, that last piece of cheese was crooked.¡±.Minnie passed her a fresh one and they both waited to see if she was okay.It took a minute but she pronounced them perfect in every way.Will called out another dozen were ready and this time Sally fetched the tray.¡°Are you and Minnie coming to sit down, I can watch the grill if you like.¡±, she asked.Will was a bit loathe to but Naomi assured him she would stay to keep an eye on and shooed Minnie and him to the table.


    Taking his place at the head, Minnie beside, he watched the happy teens tear into the food.There was a slight commotion at the far end but William was there and handled things quickly.From what Will heard there had been a bit of a to and from between four teens about eating too much, or wasting what they took.Not wanting to get involved unless he had too he returned to his meal.Minnie had of course heard everything, ¡°That one big guy told the smaller girl she should eat more or she would stay a stick, she told him he was fat and wasted food, then his friend said he¡¯s not fat, then her friend said he¡¯s a hog, that¡¯s when Willy stopped it.¡±.Will nodded ¡° At least he settled it, wait a sec, when did you start calling him Willy.¡±.She laughed ¡°Just today, he hates it.¡±.Will understood that, only one person was allowed to call him Willy, his wife.And his mother but only when she had been annoyed with him, which was most of the time.¡°Keep an ear open, let me know if things heat up again.¡± he asked Minnie.


    She nodded, unable to talk through her burger.Will knew she would pick up any ruckus long before he would. But it looked as though whatever happened had been forgotten or forgiven.Looking over at the teens and seeing that they had mostly finished up eating Will knocked on the table to get their attention.Minnie and Naomi joined in and the kids quieted down.¡°Good days work guys, one barge nearly full.If we keep this up we¡¯ll be sailing home in a week.Couple of things, wearing a lifebelt while on deck is an absolute must.We all wear them.¡±, he paused and sipped his tea.¡°Next and last thing, it can be close quarters but try to get along.It¡¯s only for a few days.Now who¡¯s for dessert.¡±.

 The Days and Nights

    Chapter 45. The Days and the Nights


    In Laketown


    The cool dark room had been made into a comfy home, blankets draped over windows to keep the light out, and heat in.Various foods were piled neatly on top of long benches, links of sausages, loaves of bread, tubs of butter and pickles.Jugs of milk and juice, bowls with apples and pears, empty pie plates and even a couple of muffin tins.¡°They never come here, and I¡¯ve been careful to tidy up our footprints outside.I hope they never find us until the others return.¡±, said a small voice.There was a softly murmured reply.¡°You can feel them too?Getting closer than they were but still far.He said they¡¯d be here, I hope it¡¯s soon.¡±, continued the first speaker.Another quiet reply.¡°He was a nice man, I thought so too.A good size, same as us.¡±, the talkative one added.It was quiet for a minute while the speaker listened at the door, ¡°Just the usual wagons going to the storehouse, to drop off for the evening.We¡¯ll stay in tonight, let Stephen have a good nights sleep.¡±.


    In fact Stephen was having a good day and he hoped it was going to be a good night too.At a table in the tavern the council had been going over the losses from various merchants and if he was being honest with himself, it wasn¡¯t that much.Yes he had lost a few loaves, pies and whatnot.Regina had her storehouse pilfered, Lorenzo some cheeses.Other merchants had reported items missing as well but nothing had been harmed, no broken windows, damaged gates or doors.At the council meeting they had come to a decision about the person or persons doing these deeds.Regina had been the first to say what they were all feeling.¡°If someone, or some family needs food that badly, and is scared to ask, then they can have it.No questions asked.¡±.As soon as she said it Stephen realized he felt the same way.¡°You¡¯re right, and I feel terrible for suspecting our neighbours, it¡¯s just cheese.¡±, this time it was Lorenzo who spoke up.¡°I apologize to you all for my behaviour, I do tend to fly off the handle sometimes.If the person wants my cheese then they can have it, with my blessing.¡±.The smaller man was nearly in tears, the stress and worry of the last couple of weeks had taken a toll.¡°My thoughts exactly.¡±, said the wool and cloth proprietor, Marian, with an A.¡°A few bolts of cloths and several balls of wool, they must have a need.No more trying to catch them, I don¡¯t want to cause whoever they are any trouble.¡±.The idea of charity not retribution gave all the council peace of mind, the turmoil of the last few days had been too unsettling .It was a pity that the two cat burglars hadn¡¯t been listening or lurking near, this meeting would have lifted a great worry off their shoulders.


    The Rose


    Will noticed that work days tended to slide into one another.You think it¡¯s Monday but then realize it¡¯s Friday and the jobs nearly done.Not that the crew had been worked half to death, just regular hours.A day off now and then.Sports days on the beach.The volleyball nets strung up on land this time, eager teens learning this new game.Soccer goalposts set up on a flat field, that had been a fun day.Minnie discovered she could easily kick the leather ball the entire length of the field.With her in one goal and Naomi is the other, it was exceedingly difficult to score.Everyone had a fantastic time trying though.Will had been the ref and his memory of the rules was hazy, but he tried his best.The children had enjoyed this game most of all, split into four teams of three players each.No team won, no team lost, just playing.Besides these days they had also had to trek to the river to fill up the water barrels.The route they took was becoming a proper path now.The three crew had cut and hacked, dug and raked and generally made the way easier to carry the barrels back and forth.


    One memorable day was spent looking for shrimp.They had sounded until a deep spot was found, then the shrimp and crab pots were lowered.The three hours waiting were spent fishing off the side.Will didn¡¯t bother dropping a line at all, the crew was pulling in so many he had to put rules out for fishing.No fish under a certain size would be kept, anything else was released.As he dropped a little guy back in the water he had a thought. ¡°If the lake was changed during the sundering, why are we able to eat what comes out of it?¡±, he asked William.The lad shrugged ¡°We don¡¯t usually eat fish, a couple now and then from shore catching.What you bring like the shrimp a few months ago, and that¡¯s about it.I¡¯ve eaten more fish on board than I¡¯ve had in my life.¡±.That stunned Will a bit.He had thought it before, how sad it was that the people were cut off from the lake.Now he knew the reason it was even worse.¡°Umm has it affected you, or any of the others, eating fish.¡±, he asked.William laughed a little, ¡°Yeah, it makes me want more.It¡¯s all right captain, it doesn¡¯t make us have the awful feelings.¡±.That made Will feel better, for a moment he thought he could have been feeding them poison.


    Hours passed and it was finally time to lift the pots.The teens volunteered to haul on the lines and they pulled, lifted, strained, huffed and puffed but the pots were deep and seemed heavy.The two mates finally took pity on the wearying kiddies and lent a hand.The first to rise to the surface was a crab pot, empty.The next was a shrimp pot, just mud and weeds.Same as the next shrimp pot, empty as well.Minnie pulled up the final crab pot, to find a single tiny crab riding on top, it stared at Minnie for a moment then scrabbled off and dived back in the water.Will patted her shoulder, ¡°Next time.¡±.She sighed ¡°Yup.¡±.


    As the days had passed the barges were riding lower in the water, more and more coal was dumped inside.The first was full and sealed as was the second.A few days later the third was full and done, tomorrow it wasfull speed to Newton.


    The camp where the crew spent most days was also becoming more settled.One full day had been spent felling trees.This was part of a plan to make this a permanent camp.Log houses for work crews to bunk in, a dining hall and kitchen, storehouses and eventually a dock.Just for the Rose, loading areas for the barges were planned for the beach.¡°If we bring up thirty youngsters we could fill the barges in two days.Live and work ashore for that time.¡±, Will laid out his plans to Naomi and Minnie.¡°I like it.¡±, Minnie decided right away.Naomi agreed as well, but had a question.¡°When we gather for Laketown would we come up here too, or still go to the shoals nearer there?¡±.¡°My thought is we would go to the shoals nearer to Laketown.¡±, he mused, ¡°There¡¯s a weeks journey between there and Newton, then another day and a half to here.¡±.That¡¯s a long way to be towing.¡±.Minnie asked ¡°Do you thinkStephen will have their barges ready?¡±.Will shrugged ¡°If not now, they will be soon.Then it¡¯s longer trips, harder to fill up three of them than our holds.¡±.


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    As they talked, sitting on the beach, the teens were playing in the shallows, relaxing on the rocky shore.Earlier huge piles of brush and logs were gathered.A bonfire was planned for the night, cooking over the open flames.This was becoming a last night tradition, weather permitting.Tomorrow was going to be busy.Ferrying all the equipment back to the boat and storing it away for the next trip.Readying the Rose for travel, packing up onboard, filling and emptying tanks, bathing, laundry¡­there was a long to-do list.


    Will hoped the memories the children made would be looked back on fondly.Some would be travelling on the Rose on other trips, some like William and Greta would never be on the water again.Again he laughed at how quickly these days had gone by and what was coming up.According to the calendar today was December 21st, when the got to Newton he planned a day of rest, relaxation and preparation, then back out and heading for Laketown.But for now there were sausages to cook on the fire, maybe popcorn, definitely tea to drink.


    Later as they rowed back to the Rose he could hear the tired teens talking, how much they had enjoyed the last week, all the new foods introduced and soccer.It looked as though that game was going to a permanent addition, if William had anything to say that is. He was chattering to the two brothers about starting a, ¡°Captain, what did you call it again?When it¡¯s a few teams playing.¡±, he asked.¡°A league.¡±, Will replied.The lad nodded his thanks and continued his plotting with Sigurd and Bjorn.When everyone boarded safely and then below for the night, Minnie and Will lifted the boats to their davits.As they walked the deck Minnie asked ¡°Is this going to be the last for Newton then, will it be enough?¡±.Will shrugged ¡°It will have to do, we¡¯ll be back in a couple, maybe three months, some stuff to do for Laketown and then to the south.¡±.Climbing down the stairs Will was still in the habit of closing both sets of doors, they might not need to in these warmer climes but there it was.


    Just as he still went and filled hot water bottles for their beds, warm toes were a must.The boat was very quiet, the galley dark as was the mess.Only one lantern lighted in the main corridor and light coming from the lounge, that door was ajar.Minnie peeked in and discovered Greta sitting and talking with Naomi.Will came in behind with a last cuppa and his notebook, just a few things to write down.Greta stood when Will and Minnie came in and seemed flustered.Will flapped his hand at her, ¡°Now now, we don¡¯t bite, you should know by now.¡±.She laughed ¡°I know captain, but I don¡¯t want to intrude.¡±.Minnie had curled into her favourite chair and was happily looking through her many sketches.In a few moments she had pulled Greta down beside her and she and Naomi were regaling her with the last few months news.Listening with half an ear as he wrote and planned for the future.To hear what Naomi was telling Greta now made the crew sound pretty adventurous.¡°And then, bam! Dad nailed that sharp to the deck and I whacked his head off.Taught him to try to eat Naomi.¡±.Yup, Minnie made things sound exciting.Her sketchbook was passed around and there it was, the entire sharp trip.He hadn¡¯t realized she had grown this skilled, but her mind had caught every detail and managed to bring it to life.Full pages of the boat and crew in action, or a single image that captured the moment.Then they were looking through her pictures of the north, with Naomi¡¯s detailing of where and when, what happened and why.Somehow she had even drawn an incredibly realistic image of the tooth necklace that they always wore.But this image was of Wills, showing the long hairs that had been carefully braided into the leather thong, a hand holding it out as if reaching out of the page.Unknowingly he had reached up and held the tooth as it rested against his skin.Minnie noticed and reached over and held his hand , ¡°That is a wonderful drawing sweetie, just wonderful.¡± Will said.


    It was like going through photo albums back in the old world.Seeing something, some image that just pops out of the old Polaroid photo that brings a flood of memories.A picture of a swing set in the yard, the kids had played on it for years, then the grandkids came along and they got pushed on the same swings.Minnie¡¯s illustrations had that same power, to draw out the recollections simply by looking at her artwork, or one of her portraits.Again Will hadn¡¯t realized how much she had done.The council of Newton were present, all in their fedoras and scarves.A single picture of Will rolling Matt¡¯s chair down the quay for his last trip, she had done how captured them perfectly.¡°I think you¡¯re gonna need some more supplies soon?¡±, Will asked.Minnie nodded, ¡°Oh yeah, I¡¯m pretty low on everything, good thing Christmas is coming soon.¡±.Now that caught Greta¡¯s attention, ¡°What¡¯s that mean, and I have to ask about that tree.Why does it have those decorations on it?¡±.Will told her it was a custom where he came from, to celebrate on a certain date.That seemed to satisfy her curiosity, it was their business after all.


    William joined them a short while later.His charges had finally dropped off, most of the six lads had been chatting about football and how they could hardly wait to get home.The other young man, Sigurd, had liked playing but was more of a studious type.A hard worker and willing to lend a hand at any chore or task but would really prefer to be reading a book under a tree, watching his brother and friends play.¡°He¡¯s a good man, probably end up a teacher, physician maybe.¡±, William mused.¡°His brother has already apprenticed to Ed as a driver, we always need more drivers.¡± he added.¡°Trains would be more efficient.¡±, Will thought aloud.Four sets of eyes swivelled his way ¡°What¡¯s a train dad?¡±, Minnie asked.


    Three hours later, give or take, the four of them sat back and admired their work.Several pictures of locomotives pulling freight cars, a proposal to create a rail system and a fact book, with everything Will knew about the railway.His offhand remark about trains had sparked interest in William and Greta.Explaining the details had taken a while but once they realized how much of a change it would be, they had taken the idea and ran with it.At first a single track, from Newton to the mountain area, hundreds of miles long.Then branching from that to the other cardinal points, heading as far as possible.Until they reached the impassable areas, the canyons and the rivers.But even with those restrictions opening the country would be a life changing event.Not that it would be done overnight, this was going to take years.They had roughed out a timeline, a schedule of what needed to be done, in what order.Surveying the land, deciding the route was one of the first on the list.Next was the track, how to make the rails, how to lay them.Will had a basic idea but this had to be done right.Then the train itself.Was there enough heavy industry to make the engines and rolling stock, could the crew supply enough raw materials.


    All of these questions had been asked and answered in a twenty page notebook, along with a proposed map of the trains route.William planned to talk to his father, get him interested first, ¡°We¡¯ll see but I¡¯m sure he will be as excited as I am.¡±.As he looked over the drawings he saw the tiny Minnies on the trains, or waiting at the train stations, .¡°This is an artists depiction, what it could look like when it¡¯s done.¡±, he explained as he had Minnie draw several drafts of what train engines could look like.From small first generation steamers to, what he considered the finest ever built, the American type Jupiter.It would be a long time until anything like that was built here but there was no rush. The two younger people were a bit exhausted after the planning session and were going to rest now, the morning would be coming soon enough.As goodnights and sleep wells were exchanged William and Greta left, Will closed the lounge door.¡°Did I just make a mistake?¡±, he asked Minnie and Naomi, ¡°Introducing something like railways is a real jump forward.¡±.¡°Maybe it is, but it will take years to build, they might lose interest or run out of supplies.¡±. Naomi answered.¡°That¡¯s going to be lots of gathering trips, iron ore and coal and copper, lots of work for us.¡± said Minnie, ¡°Nothing wrong with that, I need credit for the candy store.¡±.¡°Me too, and the bakeries.¡±, Naomi joined in.Nodding, Will had to agree with them.He had seen more barges under construction, so raw material shouldn¡¯t really be a concern.


    After talking of the future for a little while it was time to get some sleep.Will and Minnie got ready, her first of course.Luckily the bedsheets were still warm even though the metal hot water bottles had been in for hours.Sliding in the sheets, snuffing the candle and looking up at the blackness, he felt Minnie¡¯s presence beside him, as she had been her entire life.¡°Night Min, busy day tomorrow.¡±: he whispered.¡°Oh yeah,¡± was the tired response, ¡°Homeward bound.¡±.

 Baiting the Hook

    Chapter 46. Baiting the Hook


    Calling today a busy day was a bit of a understatement.Rising early to get the lay of the land, or lake, Will had been on deck just after sunrise.Naomi heard him moiling around and made him a cuppa, Minnie wasn¡¯t up yet, still sleeping softly in her nest of blankets.Will had woken a couple of times during the night, still concerned about the railway.At first he had been enthusiastic about the idea, still was but it still must have bothered him on some level.Societies usually progressed into better and better modes of transportation, at least it had worked like that where he came from.Perhaps the frenetic growth of the Industrial Revolution was wrong, no, not wrong but just too much too fast.He couldn¡¯t see that really going on in Newton, or Laketown.And if it did, well he had the power to put the brakes on, cutting off or slowing down the supply train.Hard to build without iron, difficult to run machinery without fuel.But then he didn¡¯t like the position the crew was put in.The ability to control like that, and he did have that power. ¡°Ahh, too many deep thoughts for a brilliant morning like this.¡±, he muttered.Things would have to work themselves out, he still had a bit of regret at mentioning trains though.For now back to work.


    The smell of bacon was drifting through the boat, tendrils breaching the cabin doors to wake the sleepers within.Minnie had been dreaming of a field, full of yellow wildflowers and long grass, it had just rained and the damp was so cooling and lovely.She had been running, oh running so fast and so long, til her legs ran dry and she had collapsed on the earth.A wonderful dream but was drawn out by that smell, the field of flowers going back to wherever it lived while she was awake.Yawning and stretching she could feel dad was already up and about.¡°Drinking tea and worrying somewhere I bet¡±, she sighed.He did that a lot and as she dressed in work clothes, she was determined to help him more.Take on some of the things that caused him to not sleep or to just sit and stare off at nothing.Great, now she was worrying, have to talk with Naomi, they needed a plan.But first food.


    The crew kids were up and excited.Today was home time, there were mixed feelings though.Some were dying to get home, no regret in coming but just missing things.Others wanted more, wanted to stay onboard and live this life.Will could see this in their faces, in the way they held themselves, it just showed somehow.He had thought of adding more to their crew, a couple more people.But there wasn¡¯t really a reason to, there wasn¡¯t that much to do when it was just the crew.He, Minnie and Naomi were family and it¡¯s pretty hard to just bring a random person in, or a couple of randoms.More deep thoughts.He made a note to make sure they came on every gathering trip.A permanent solution no, but the best he could do.Time would alter the teen¡¯s perception of the lake, from wondrous adventure to forbidden area.Very sad really.


    He felt a thumping on the deck behind him and as he turned was tackled by Minnie, ¡°Morning dad.¡± , she laughed, sitting on his chest with a happy grin.¡°Well hi there, finally woke up huh?¡±.When they had first brought her home, years ago, this was how she woke him.To let him know she had to visit the back yard.Standing up he lowered her to the ground and they sat on the railing looking out at the lake.¡°A bit blustery today, I think it¡¯s going to be straight back.¡±, Minnie said.Will looked at her and quirked an eyebrow.¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that, it¡¯s exactly what you thought when you came on deck.¡±, she replied.¡°Well yeah, but kind of scary, that you can read my mind.¡±, Will said.¡°You try,¡± Minnie said, ¡°Try to read mine.¡±.He looked at her, furrowed his brow, glared down his nose, ¡°Yeah, I got nothing.¡±.The dinner bell rang out below, ¡°Hah, you¡¯re hungry!¡±, he said and ran for the stairs, chased by a laughing Minnie.Arriving at the mess they had calmed a bit and walked in to the crowded room.


    The tables were loaded, Naomi and crew had gone all out for this last breakfast.The rest of the meals aboard would definitely not be as lavish as this one.They would be travelling for the next twenty four hours, give or take, and the weather might not cooperate enough for sit down meals.There were plans in place for either but the blustery day on deck didn¡¯t bode all that well.Minnie was holding court at the main tables, visiting for the last time with the teens.After breakfast it was all hands on deck to rig for towing and she and Will would be busy.As the meal was winding down he caught her eye and pointed up, she nodded.Will headed to the galley to thank Naomi and her aides for breakfast and to let her know they would be underway soon.¡°Okay dad, five minutes to finish up here and I¡¯ll be on deck.¡±, she said.As he left the mess he had a word with William and Greta that they were in charge of the teens now.Minnie stopped off in the boiler room to start things up, as the weather wasn¡¯t so cold they didn¡¯t need it running all the time.


    Arriving deck found the weather a little more blustery but not terrible.He had lifted the bollard out of the hold earlier and now fitted it into place, making sure the bolts were tight.Wouldn¡¯t do for that to get loose while towing.Minnie joined him and they pulled the boats anchors, they came up very unwillingly covered with a huge mass of weed and mud.They dunked and scraped off as much as they could until they resembled anchors again, and only then were they hauled aboard.Naomi had come up while they were in the middle of this..¡±Hey wanna help?¡±, Minnie asked.The young girl held up a hand, with a smile ¡°No thanks, you guys are having too much fun.¡±.She sat back, adjust a pillow behind her back, ¡°Go on then, get to it.¡±.A few minutes later they were ready to start moving.Will was at the helm, Minnie and Naomi ready to start attaching the barges.He cranked the throttle and the Rose left the spot she had called home for the last few days.He trundled her around and came in close to the first barge, as before Minnie and Naomi sprang aboard easily.Pulling the anchors they readied the tow lines fore and aft, then when the Rose steamed near Naomi took a long jump and made it to the stern and quickly looped the line on the tow bollard.Will brought the ship around to pick up Minnie and to hook up the second barge.Then a third time to get the last.


    The gathering crew had seen this before but it was still a marvel.When all three barges were following along, crew back on board he turned the throttle up to three quarters and they were heading back to Newton.¡°Tomorrow morning at the latest.¡±, Will said, quickly knocking on wood.And as the leagues were eaten up under the keel the weather stayed mild, the waters calm and crew in good spirits.There was always a feeling of accomplishment on the way back after gathering for this long, that it was a job well done.They would be at this again in a couple of months, maybe a bit longer, but they would be back.As Will looked ahead at the horizon there were no storm clouds, he remembered on their last trip here the weather had turned foul soon after leaving camp.¡°Not today though, it¡¯s gonna be blue skies all the way back.¡±, he said to Minnie.¡°Well not at night though.¡±, she said.Will hmmmed a little ¡°Of course not at night, I know.¡±.Minnie added ¡°Yeah, cause the skies not blue at night, it¡¯s black with stars, and the moon sometimes.¡±.¡°Yeah, I got that, it¡¯s just a saying, means good weather maybe good times too.¡± Will sighed.¡°Oh, I see now, you shoulda said so, that it was a saying, like that other one you told me, about birds and bushes, I didn¡¯t really get that one either.Anyway I¡¯m going to see Naomi about a bacon sandwich, you¡¯ll want one when I come up, and tea or you can make that on here now huh.K bye¡±. And she was gone.¡°Bye.¡±, he laughed.


    Every time Will checked their course he also moved the little brass Rose along her route on the map table.Hard to do that in rough weather but no problems in todays easy pleasant waters.As morning turned to afternoon, then evening the light was beginning to fade.Before it went entirely Will had visited each barge and lit the markers lanterns on each.He had done this the conventional way, of rowing to each.Not that he wasn¡¯t capable of the long jumps that Naomi and Minnie had done while hooking up. It was that he wasn¡¯t very practiced with this new ability.The crew had tested a few times while on shore, away from the kids and had been a bit rattled.Will remembered the world record for a running long jump, from the other world that is, was just over twenty nine feet.They had paced that out and marked it.Minnie had soared over the far mark, actually about three times as far, landed with an oomph.So had Naomi.Both of them were not quite maxed out on their strength and other stats yet either.When Will had given it his best shot the results had been a bit disturbing.Watching the other two jump as far as they had was like watching a hero from a movie.Doing it yourself, actually jumping half the length of a football field, one hundred and fifty some feet. And landing on your feet, sinking into the ground a few inches, disturbing.Being able to jump up, not a running jump but just standing and jumping straight up, for thirty feet at least.To run fast as the wind, to lift and carry many hundreds of pounds.He was still coming to terms with it, there weren¡¯tgoing to be changes in their lives, he wasn¡¯t going to start lurking the streets of Newton or Laketown at night, searching for miscreants.But it would make their busy life easier.He didn¡¯t have to worry about Minnie or Naomi being hurt or taken advantage of.It would make certain plans he had, such as a trek from the far northern coast to thesite of that monster tree much more feasible.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°More deep thoughts?¡±, this time Naomi had appeared in the wheelhouse.¡°Just thinking of how we¡¯ve changed.¡±, he answered.¡°Ah, yes, that.¡±, was her reply.¡°Minnie and I were talking in the galley and didn¡¯t realize that a couple of the lads overheard us.About how far and how high, how much we lifted, things like that.They seemed a little scared of us after, when I brought snacks out.¡±, she added a little sadly.Will sighed ¡°It doesn¡¯t come up often but we really are different now, far different from the land folk.Which is usually fine, until something like this comes up, or when we loaded the supplies so easily.¡±.¡°I hope they don¡¯t start to resent us.That we can do things and go where they can¡¯t.¡±, Naomi said after a minute.Will shrugged, ¡°It¡¯s not much of an answer but only time will tell.Good thing about this world is that there isn¡¯t any conflicts, no wars or crime.Might be a problem or concern then.¡±.Naomi shook her head, ¡°We¡¯ve never had wars, what you¡¯ve told us about, even before the change.We just get along.¡±.


    On the shore near Laketown


    Since the council had stopped their efforts to catch the pilfering duo, their life was much easier.Still lurking around at night though, but much more comfortable.They were unwilling to be seen by the town folks, at least until they met up with the lost members of the family.The shops had made an effort to leave goods out and this meal had been such a gift.A basket of meat pies and fresh bread, even a small tub of butter outside the back door of Stephens bakery.They had felt a bit guilty breaking and entering, stealing and taking what they needed.Now they didn¡¯t have the constant worry of where their next meal was coming from, or would they be warm at night.That concern had been taken care of by the kind people of the village.Worrying about the missing family was pushed to the forefront now though.They talked about where they were, or what they could be doing.¡°I feel them closer now, I think they¡¯re moving again.¡± a low voice said.The answer was inaudible but the first speaker gave a peculiar laugh ¡°Yes her too, I know you miss her more than I do, and what do you mean there¡¯s another?¡±.A period of quiet followed and then ¡°Come here, look at me and stop sulking.They will be happy to see us, I know it, now have a pie or two.You¡¯ll feel better when you eat.¡±.


    The Rose


    Minnie had taken the wheel just after dinner and Will was relaxed on the bow in his deck chair.The wheelhouse windows were open so they could talk, ¡°Why would he wear his underwear on the outside of his pants.¡±, she asked.¡°I don¡¯t think I explained it right, it¡¯s just a costume he wears when he helps people.¡± Will said.The subject of their ability¡¯s had come up and then, of course the masked heroes of his old world.¡°And he doesn¡¯t wear a mask and still no one recognizes him, even when he¡¯s not capering around in his panties.¡± Minnie wanted to know.Will had been taking a sip of tea when she came out with that last bit and had managed not to spit tea all over himself, but it had been difficult.Sometimes he thought she waited until he was drinking on purpose.


    There was a bit more wind than before but the waves were still quite mild, Will knew however that this could change in a short while and they were ready.The galley was shutdown for hot meals and dinner had been a cold one.Sandwich¡¯s, veggies and an assortment of cheeses, followed by the sticky gingerbread that had been prepared earlier.The teens were eating their dinner on deck wherever they could find a spot, no tables set up while towing.And the stern near the tow hitch was off limits, but twice William had to warn the same trio away.The same ones who had neglected the life belts.Minnie had noticed this and had confronted the miscreants.She had remarkably held her temper when the larger boys and their sister had told her there wasn¡¯t much she could do about it.Simply taking a grip on their hands and started walking below, the struggling teens had no choice but to go along.Sitting in the galley with Naomi and Greta, she told them this was the last time they would ever be on board the Rose.And would let the other kids know how awful they had been, then talk to the council.The boys hadn¡¯t thought their actions through and were very apologetic, they did however keep glancing at their sister. She wouldn¡¯t back down, and was ignoring what Minnie and Naomi were saying.¡°Well you can stay by me until we get to Newton then off you go.¡±, Naomi finally said.¡°You two, go on deck and stay by William, any more bad behaviour and you¡¯ll go before the captain.¡±, Minnie added.She shooed the two boys off, glared at the third member and went back up topside.


    The night came on quickly and the voyage went on.The gathering crew bedded down for the last night aboard snugged away in their now familiar bunks.Will had never gotten the hang of the hammocks after all, even with Minnie¡¯s help.He had filed that idea in his notebook to be done at another time.William and Greta were keeping a good eye on the teens that had misbehaved earlier in the day, going as far to put their beds in front of the door in case of possible shenanigans.However all had been quiet so far.


    Will and Minnie were in the wheelhouse, taking turns keeping an eye on the course.As the night wound on Naomi joined them, ¡°Everyones asleep now, including those three that have been acting up.¡±.Will sighed ¡°I guess it was too much to ask that the children were always behaved, I just don¡¯t understand why they would mess around like this.¡±.Minnie shrugged ¡°Me either, they were good kids at first.Still are but just had a moment of not listening.¡±.Whatever the case, what brought that little act of rebellion about, it didn¡¯t really matter.They had burned a bridge or two.Will would be sure not to hold a grudge though, if they met up on shore.Some were suited to going to sea, some weren¡¯t.


    The stars were magnificent tonight, there was no such thing as light pollution in this world.No satellites or planes crisscrossing the heavens, the only movement was an occasional shooting star.The sounds of the chuffing engine was only background noise now, the crew was so used to it that it didn¡¯t really register anymore.Water was slapping rhythmically against the hull, the wind was up a bit and starting to whoosh across and through the boat.Will stood at the stern and could easily see the lights of the following barges, everything looked fine and he hoped it would stay that way.


    After a peaceful night the sun rose, as it usually does.According to the charts the boat was still a few hours from Newton and would be docked just after lunch.¡°Dad, I¡¯m starving, wake up Naomi, pretty please and get her to make me something.Look at my belly, it¡¯s shrunk to nothing cause I¡¯m dying.Oh woe is me, to be treated so cruelly by my family.¡±.Minnie was definitely on a rant, Naomi had already gone below to start an easy meal for the crew, she had mentioned French toast to Will.Then asked why it was called that instead of something like eggy toast, or dipped bread, or maybe panbread.Will had no clue why.¡°Hey sweetie,¡±, Will interrupted, ¡°Go below and see whats going on with food and for goodness sakes get something.¡±.After making sure that he would be okay while she was gone, and suggestions for checking the course , then she felt she could leave.Watching her go Will laughed, such a character she had turned out to be.A little while later she returned with a tray.¡°Hope you¡¯re hungry, I got us lots, I had a piece of eggy toast in the galley, stole it from Sally, and a bunch of bacon too, and a cup of tea for you, nice and strong and extra yucky and sweet.¡±.She placed the tray on the hastily cleared map table and sat down in her captains chair.¡°Everything okay below, no fights in the mess?¡±, he asked while tucking in to his plate.¡°Nah, it¡¯s all clear, everyone¡¯s just eating and yapping.¡±, she managed through her bacon.¡°Good good, so it¡¯s eggy toast now, huh.Not French toast?¡± Will asked.She pointed her hand at her full mouth and held up a finger.¡°Yeah I don¡¯t know what French is, I know you said it¡¯s a country but not here, so Naomi called it that, the eggy toast thing.¡±, Minnie said finally, ¡°Blame her.¡±.


    The weather was changing, the wind was changing and was whistling away now, calling up some grey black storm clouds.They were running from the bad weather, Will was sure they would be docked before any of rain or snow hit.

 Consequences and Truths

    Chapter 47. Consequences and Truths


    The barges had been beached this time.It had taken longer and was quite a bit more work, towing them in close, unhooking and nudging them up the rocky beach. Again it seemed the entire town had shown up to watch them work.They hadn¡¯t bothered to anchor the barges this time, the water was calmer here in the small bay that Newton was nestled in.There was no danger of a runaway barge doing any damage today.After each had been successfully dropped off the Rose was tied up at the quay and prepared to drop off the teens.The families were gathered at lands end, eagerly awaiting the return of the kids.¡°All hands on deck.¡±, Will bellowed out, standing at the stern of the boat.Most were on deck anyway, but now the rest that had been relaxing below came scampering up top.They formed a rough line and the crew stood in front of them.¡°And here we are, another successful trip.Well done all well done.I¡¯m sure that we will travel together in the future, but I think William and Greta have done their last trip on the Rose.Three cheers for them and thanks for everything you did for us all.¡±, Will led them all in the cheering.Naomi called out for everyone to go below and get their gear, and went down with them to make sure that was all that went.


    Minnie was talking with William and Greta, letting them know how much fun they had together and how much she would miss them.¡°One day your little ones will come voyaging with us, I¡¯ll tell them all about these days.¡±, she brushed a tear away.Greta knelt and hugged the little first mate, ¡°They¡¯ll love you like I do.¡±. Seeing the others were ready Minnie got herself together and called them all down onto the quay.She and Naomi started toward the crowds with the teens, except for three, they were walking with Will.¡°Travelling on the lake isn¡¯t for everyone, you all know that..¡±, he said.¡°But willfully ignoring safety rules, and not just once, cannot be forgiven.If you had fallen in Minnie or Naomi would have risked their own lives to go after you.¡±.There was no reply, they just marched on without a word of reply.When reaching the end of the quay Will stopped and waited to see who met these three.An older couple had rushed forward to greet the children, who ran to meet them.¡°Ah captain, so glad everyone returned safely, thank you for looking after our brood.¡±, the mother said happily.Now Will had a problem, let the parents know their children were not welcome back or¡­what to do?These three had put the others at risk by their actions, he had no choice.He beckoned the parents to one side, the three children too.¡°Things were not all smooth sailing.I¡¯m afraid your children cause us quite a bit of trouble.¡±, he held a hand up as they started to ask questions, the children still not saying a word.¡°We have certain rules aboard, they wouldn¡¯t follow them.As a result they can no longer come with us on gathering trips.The other children know and will probably tell their parents, I will let the council know as well.¡±.He turned and left the family there, feeling bad for their predicament but not as bad as would be feeling if someone had drowned.Minnie had noticed what was going on and came over to meet him, ¡°All done, you told them?¡±, she asked.Will nodded sadly, ¡°I wish I hadn¡¯t needed to, it might be rough when others find out.¡±.Naomihad also joined them ¡°I think that¡¯s already the case.¡±, she pointed at the crowd.Several people were talking with their children and looking over at the people Will had words with.She saw he was a bit uneasy about having to tell, ¡°You had to, they were being willful for no reason.No one got hurt this time, but what about next time?¡±.¡°I know, I know, it¡¯s just going to be hard.¡±, Will sighed.


    The rest of the crew had been reunited with family and were leaving for home, the councillors had been waiting patiently.They were all present this time, however John was staying back from the water. Now, as the crowed cleared a bit they came forward to add their thanks as well.¡°Beaching the barges is a wonderful idea captain, so much easier to empty now.¡±, enthused Gemma.¡°That¡¯s right, no more tying ropes to workers and pulling them back.¡± added Evelyn.¡°Glad we could help.¡±, Will said with a laugh.¡°The usual credit will be added Will, to the Roses and your own, crews that is, not just yours.¡±, Samantha told them.Minnie cheered heading that, ¡°Great, I want to go shopping.¡±, ¡°Me too.¡±, added Naomi.¡°Oh yeah, but not today, we have a boat to clean up first.¡± Will said.¡°Well, I have had two briskets smoking for six hours and they¡¯ll be ready in a couple more.Does dinner on the beach tonight sound good?¡±, Dave asked. ¡°Oh do say yes, we love visiting with you, it¡¯s nearly like having family again.¡±, John said.How could they say no after that?¡°The usual time, a while after dark?¡±, Will replied.Everyone agreed that would be fine and the council departed with a clatter of wheels and neighing of horses.


    Knowing the crews habits a couple of shop owners had sent carts down to the dock.The one from the dairy was most welcome, as was the bakers wagon.Minnie chose a gallon of fresh milk to take back to the boat, as wellas some tasty looking cheese buns.Will looked everything over but didn¡¯t see anything that leaped out at him, Naomi opted to get some fresh fruit.They walked back up the dove to the Rose and as they got there and climbed aboard Will said ¡°To heck with cleaning, I¡¯m taking a nap.¡±.Minnie apparently agreed as she cheered and went below immediately, Naomi followed.Heading to his cabin Will found Minnie had already climbed into bed and had gotten comfortable with a book, propped up on pillows.Will hadn¡¯t been able to read in bed for years, an eye problem, and simply undressed and climbed in.With the thick curtains drawn over the porthole and the door closed the room was very dark.And after the bustle of the last ten days the quiet was very welcome.¡°Night Min, a few hours and then off to dinner huh.¡±, he half mumbled.She patted his shoulder as he fell asleep, her own eyes starting to droop.


    A while later the sun was beginning to set, Will woke up needing a drink.His mouth was so dry it felt like sand.Must be the time of year he thought, taking a drink from his flask.Ever since he found it in his bedroom cupboard it was always near.It had probably always had some kind of whiskey in it but now the contents were usually water or tea.Poking the sleeping Minnie beside him, ¡°Time to wakey wakey, we have a dinner to get to.¡±.The only answer was a low growl, he didn¡¯t know if she did this without thinking.Poking her again, ¡°Come on now, they¡¯re probably doing ribs or steaks too, along with Dave¡¯s brisket.¡±. That did the trick, she pulled her head out of the covers.¡°Oh hi, did you say dinner time?¡±.There was a knock on the door and Naomi called through ¡°You guys up, we gotta get ready for dinner.¡±. Minnie answered before Will could ¡°Yeah, just trying to get dad up, he¡¯s being lazy.¡±.He could imagine her shaking her head, ¡°Well hurry him up, we got things to do and places to be.¡±.


    A short while later they met up on deck, it was early dusk on a fine evening.The sun had dropped behind the horizon and the clouds to the west were still lit up.No wind here and the lake was just gently heaving a foot or so.Will had stopped in the galley and made tea before going on deck.He was wearing his usual shorts and shirt, Minnie had matched him, just not the same colours.That would have been weird she had said. But they were wearing matching hats, boaters with yellow bands.Naomi was decidedly not wearing the same.Will had asked her what the style was, a high hem in the front and low at the back.¡°A high low, funnily enough, or a dip hem.Very comfortable and it¡¯s not confined like my others were.¡±, she had answered.This had been a while ago though, and now he was more familiar with it.Todays was black with some kind of red highlights throughout, high black boots and a black hat of some kind.Not like his and Minnie¡¯s, just different somehow.He was definitely not up with the latest fashions.


    Sitting at the bow they had a fine view of the town and beach.There was not much activity in the town, ¡°I guess they¡¯re rolling up the streets again.¡±, laughed Minnie.¡°One day we¡¯ll have to wander around after dark, visit a couple of taverns, see what the nightlife is like here.¡±, Will said.Naomi was still a bit standoffish with Newton, she hadn¡¯t liked the pressure to relocate their base here.Will had made it clear that wouldn¡¯t be happening but the council had let them know the offer was still there.It was an odd thing, but there were two sides to the councillors.The growing friendship between crew and Dave, Samantha and Ed, the others to a lesser amount, but becoming friends.And the other side of them, the strong willed governors of Newton and the surrounding territory.Will had never asked it this was an inherited position or a vote was held.It didn¡¯t really matter he supposed, they didn¡¯t live here, but it was interesting to him. Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    The evening wore on until it was nearly full dark, lamps had been lit at the far end of the quay.Will looked up from the crib board as he heard a bit of a commotion, the council had arrived in a flurry of hoofbeats.Looking at the board Minnie proclaimed she was the winner, hotly contested by Naomi.They argued the entire length of the quay about who had what, who was going to peg the most and so on.Finally decided to have a rematch when dinner was over as they reached the end and met the council.


    ¡°Evening everyone, hope you¡¯re hungry.¡±, called Dave, ¡°I¡¯ve been smoking all day, that brisket is perfect.I sure had some bad ones though, tough as my boots and about as tasty.¡±.Will laughed at that, he remembered learning the ways as well.As usual there were two carriages full of tables and chairs, portable stoves, containers of food, everything needed for a fine cookout.Even a wagon carrying Dave¡¯s smokers, still cooking away.He saw Will looking at the setup, ¡°I made this rig for picnics, haven¡¯t used it til today though.¡±.The wagon had a smoker and a grill on each side, supplies in the middle, very well made.Of course it had to be examined in every detail, notes made.Tables set up nearer the water, but not too close.Lanterns hung near gave plenty of light and there was a festive feeling.¡°A very good trip captain, so much coal.¡±, John stated while they were waiting to eat.Will nodded, ¡°Yes it was very productive, we gathered at the same place as before, a days north of here¡­¡±.The tale was told, not everything. Just enough so the council could understand how hard the kids had worked and how much the crew appreciated them.¡°They sure worked hard, I think it¡¯s for the food, like popcorn and burgers, but maybe some of them think it¡¯s fun, definitely not the three jerks.¡±, Minnie added.That statement opened up a few eyes.Between the three of them the story of the trip was regaled, including the incident with the three teens.¡°To be honest I¡¯ve never heard the like.¡±, said Samantha.The others were equally gobsmacked, going gathering was a privilege, to act up was unknown.Will shrugged ¡°From what I¡¯ve seen on the other runs I would agree, but there it is.¡±.John had been mostly listening ¡°I know the family, a older couple with three children, all come to them at the same time, later in life.¡±. Gemma spoke up then ¡°My uncles brother, the one on my mothers side, his daughters cousin is related to their best friends sister.¡±.Minnie looked totally confused, Naomi was trying to work out what she meant.¡°My point is that the three children, Lil, Phil and Rupert, can be a handful.¡±, Gemma said.¡°We noticed.¡±, Will said dryly.


    They were interrupted by the clanging a dinner bell, one that was mounted on Dave¡¯s food wagon.¡°Yeah, he has one of those too.¡±, laughed Samantha. The amount of food was staggering but the crew did their Herculean best.Between the brisket, which was amazing, beef and pork ribs, baked and fried potatoes and to Will¡¯s delight, fresh coleslaw.Setup buffet style everyone loaded up a plate and set to.Will was reminded of earlier days going to all you could eat buffets with family.His personal record was nine plates, but he wasn¡¯t even close tonight.Minnie had managed three and was chatting sleepily with John.Naomi had been a bit more reserved but had still polished off two highly loaded plates.Will hadn¡¯t been able to resist the brisket, Dave had done a masterful job.Between that, both ribs and the coleslaw he was a happy man.When Evelyn had announced dessert, from a bakery she had a partial interest in, everyone¡¯s evening was complete.


    And as usual, the talk turned to business.The coal brought would serve their needs for the next three month or so.Some slight amount could be gleaned from the erratic shore deposits near the town, but not enough.¡°It was a pity the other barges weren¡¯t quite ready yet.¡±, Gemma said, ¡°But they should be next time.¡±.Will nodded, ¡°We¡¯ll have to work out some logistics, about how to get all six there.But we will figure it out.¡±.¡°From here your going to Laketown yes?¡±. Evelyn asked.Will nodded ¡°Yes, a gathering trip for them, then we¡¯re heading south.To a place called FarHarbour.¡±. John started at that name, ¡°Really!Oh captain I would counsel you to think on that.There¡¯s monsters that way, on the lake and on land.¡±.


    That statement had been a bit startling and begged for an explanation.John had been a bit light on details, and only knew what his partner had told him.Matt had been on several gathering trips with captain Eric, oh so many years ago.The tale had been that the Rose, under sail at that time, had been attacked by vicious sea monsters.Then when they had finally landed at the far southern village, they had been attacked by the inhabitants.Now John had no reason to doubt his deceased partners story, told to him many times over in their years together.Will had his reservations, he kept them to himself.Minnie had asked many questions.¡°What kind of sea monster, cause we¡¯ve seen a few, sharps and whales too, but they¡¯re nice, the whales not the sharps, I hates those, we saw a little sea monster over by Laketown it whacked our boat but ran off.¡±, she ran out of breath.¡°Umm, er, well, I¡¯m not sure, I wish I knew ¡°, John stammered a bit.


    The good times waned as the hour got later.Things were being packed up, Dave took care of his wagon himself, Will gave him a hand.As he admired the craftsmanship that had gone into every detail Dave said, in a low voice, ¡°William showed me the plans you all made for a railroad.What a marvellous word for a marvellous idea.I¡¯ll bring this up at the next meeting and I¡¯m sure it will pass.¡±. Will was still a bit conflicted but didn¡¯t let it show, he answered all of Dave¡¯s enthusiastic questions as best he could.Before he knew it everything had been packed up, the helpful aides had done their usual job of tidying and packing.Evenly and Gemma had bid the crew goodnight and left with John.Samantha was riding back with Dave and the crew walked beside the slow moving wagon.Will was walking hand in hand with Minnie, who was very tired at this point.She could push through when she needed to, work for days without stop or rest if required.But not now, it was the end to a busy day, a great meal with friends and now off home.


    In Laketown the plot thickens


    Regina had finally cleared out the taverns basement, where the casks of beer and barrels of ale were kept cool.There had been a few months worth of spiles, just tossed aside when a new barrel or cask had been spiked.The hard dirt floor had been raked and scraped then a layer of fresh dirt to sweeten the smell.Many years of spills have given the place quite the unique odour.¡°Much better than before.¡±, Stephen called down from the main floor.¡°I notice you showed up after everything was done.¡±, she answered.He laughed ¡°Sorry, I had a bread emergency. My new assistant forgot to add yeast to a batch early this morning, then panicked when it didn¡¯t rise.A real mess.¡±.He came down the narrow ladder, ¡°Remember playing in here when we were young?Lots of memories here.¡±.He peered around the dark room, it was bigger than it looked.He could see where Regina and her helper had been toiling all day.¡°How about a cool one?¡±, Reginas voice drifted down the stairs.He started a bit then called his assent and started up the stairs.


    Throughout the small town there was a feeling of excitement, of expectation that something special was coming.The cheesery was busy, Lorenzo and family were hard at work, just like Stephen had been before quaffing a few at the tavern.They had experimented with a few different ingredients in the past weeks and it was time to see how those worked out.Cheeses with raisins, or smoked sausage, some smoked, some baked.Lorenzo was quite chuffed to see how they turned out, and he promised himself, to leave a few small carefully wrapped gifts outside, he had even made a covered box for that purpose.The butcher had taken to putting some jerky out twice a week as well.If some member of their village, or a visitor from a farm, had food insecurity, well that very thought was horrible.


    After conferring with his fellow council member on important town business, or having a couple of brews with a friend, Stephen returned home.The bakeries work was usually done by late morning, for some reason his family had always done the days baking early.It might have been a heat issue, he thought, get things done before it gets too hot.And Laketown did have some scorching hot summers.Good for the crops.¡°Not so good for the bakers¡±, he mumbled.Those very hot days were behind them now and wouldn¡¯t be seen for a long while.Business was good today, well it was good everyday but today was excellent.He had made several creek cakes earlier and all had been sold, he had decided to leave one outside for the needy.He too had a container that he put his offerings into, to keep scavengers away.Biding his staff good day he left out the back and sat in his covered garden enjoying the day, his wife¡¯s voice called out.¡°Stephen, Stephen are you there?Stephen!¡±.Oh dear, he though, what¡¯s happened now.¡°What¡¯s this I hear, drinking at this time of day, and not even bringing me a taste, mother was right, I should have married Lorenzo.¡± she continued.Sighing he looked at the package he was carrying, a bottle of her favourite blackberry wine, ¡°Coming dear.¡±.


    The sounds of the busy village carried only slightly to where the former pilferers were.An effort had been made to tidy up their home but the sheer size of the place made that difficult.¡°I tell you brother, it¡¯s hard to see what¡¯s our mess and what was here before.¡±.There was an inaudible response and then ¡°Well maybe, but they might have had a sausage or two before they left.¡±.The sounds of a broom sweeping hard wood then splashing.¡°We should try fishing again, I do like fish.¡±, the small voice said¡­¡±Yes your right, raw might make us sick.We¡¯ll wait, they always shared when they made it before.¡±.A whispered answer then, ¡°Soon, it will be soon.¡±.

 Coming Soon

    Chapter 48. Coming Soon


    Gazing up at the ceiling in his cabin Will gave a mental click,


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 40/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 48/50


    Stamina 48/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Intelligence 22/25


    Strength 24/25


    Vitality 24/25


    Stamina 24/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 36/50


    Strength 40/50


    Vitality 39/50


    Stamina 43/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Hmmm, just a couple of tiny increases, intelligence seemed the hardest to bring up.That¡¯s fine though.


    Laying in his comfortable bed he wasn¡¯t quite ready to get up yet.Collecting his thoughts he was planning the day.Bit of a tidy on the boat, laundry can be done under weigh and the crew quarters cleaned up too.Need a good mopping out and a wash down.Same as the mess, all the extra chairs and tables stored again and a good wash out.Halls, heads, main deck and finally the bilge pumped out.There had been a lot of spillage over the past ten days, just the usual, nothing unexpected , and that had to go.A check of what they needed for supplies and get that sent down, the stores were not exactly low.Plenty of meals left, but it was good to set off with a full larder, plus fresh meat and fresh milk.What else?¡°We¡¯re going Christmas shopping today right?¡±, Minnie¡¯s happy voice came from beside him, ¡°I got a list of stuff I wanna get, it¡¯s long.¡±.Will stretched ¡°Maybe, if I decide to get up today, might just sleep in all day, what do you think?¡±.¡°I think Naomi would toss you out of bed, would be funny to see though.¡± Minnie answered.Will knew she was right so he got up, slowly.


    Minnie darted out of their cabin, ¡°He¡¯s up, never mind the bucket.¡± she yelled on the way out.That got Will moving faster, and as he exited his cabin he found Naomi coming out of hers too, yawning and stretching too.She gave him a look, ¡°She got you huh.¡±.He laughed , ¡°Yeah, it makes her so happy though, I don¡¯t mind.¡±.A yell came from the galley, ¡°Come on lazies, I started breakfast.¡±.Well that got Naomi moving, she dashed to the galley, but found Minnie sitting at their table sipping a glass of milk.¡°Oh hi, how are you today, ready to go shopping, cause I am.¡±.Naomi laughed and sat beside her little sister, ¡°Oh yeah, but I have to get ready, okay?Dads getting ready, he decided to eat on shore when he heard you were cooking, nah just kidding, he said it¡¯s a day off.¡±.Will stuck his head in, ¡°Yeah it is.Breakfast at Martha¡¯s, then shopping, lunch or an early dinner somewhere else maybe.Then we¡¯re off, clean up on the water.¡±.He was ready to go, shorts and a shirt as usual, and his usual hat.¡°I¡¯m going to change, I need to spiff up a bit.¡±, Minnie said and was off.


    Naomi left to get dressed for the day.Minnie returned with a much tidier turnout.Her favourite yellow sundress, large floppy hat, but still her fancy leather boots.Her sleek black and white fur was neatly brushed and she even had yellow bows on her long floppy ears.¡°Well don¡¯t you look pretty as a picture today Min .¡±, Will exclaimed.She nodded, ¡°Yeah I do.¡±.Will had a cuppa while they waited in their last member to be ready, then lifted their shopping carts on deck.The weather was perfect, all they needed now was their missing crew member.


    As they waited Minnie called down into the hold a few times to try to hurry Naomi up a bit.To her delight she found there was a bit of an echo in the big open space and it changed her voice.For the next few minutes she was howling and crooning and just generally having fun with different sounds.When Naomi finally did show she shook her head at Minnie, ¡°What on earth were you doing, it sounded¡­well I¡¯m not sure how to describe it, but it was weird.¡±.That made Mins day and it might have continued except for a mighty rumble from Wills stomach.¡°Ooh we better get some food in there, you might eat yourself.¡±, laughed Minnie and they set off down the quay.


    Coming off of the thick planks of the quay, over a strip of rocky beach then into the small square was like coming into another world and, in a way, it was.The quiet of the boat, gulls and water, changed to the town sounds.Vendors calling, horses and oxen as they pulled wagons, the constant chuffing of steam engines behind various businesses.¡°Pretty noisy here huh.¡±, Minnie said as they crossed into the town proper.Naomi nodded her agreement.This seemed to be the industrial part of the town, close to the beach with access to the coal barges.Will had never really noticed before, probably because they were usually emptying the barges on the quay, snd the boat was gone.But now he saw a weigh station with a very busy man.Every pound of the coal the crew had gathered was accounted for as it came off the barge and onto a wagon.And there were many wagons waiting for the coal, all very orderly, like everything in this world.No yelling, no fighting, no one trying to jump the line, very peaceful.Ed and Rudyard waved as they noticed Will having a look, they ambled over to say hello.¡°Morning all, morning.¡±, Rudyard said in his deep voice.Minnie jumped up on the cart and surveyed the action, ¡°Busy place for you guys huh, lots of loads to take out?¡±.Ed nodded ¡°Oh yes, we have, umm let me see?¡±, he pulled out a notebook.Will smirked at Minnie, she stuck her tongue out at him.Ed went on, oblivious to what was going on ¡°We have to load up about eight hundred pounds, then deliver to several farms.¡±.¡°A long way too, quite a few days out, same back.¡±, Rudyard added.As he looked at the empty wagon, Will could see several bags.Camping gear he assumed.¡°Hey Ed, can you recommend a good place for breakfast?Somewhere close?¡±, Naomi asked.The young lad pointed in the direction they had been headed, ¡°Nice little place over there, the Big Blue Eatery, most of us drivers eat there.Tell them Ed or Rudy here sent you, get a discount.¡±.Rudyard leaned over ¡°And we get a couple of free coffees for a referral.¡±.Will laughed at hearing that, good business all around.Biding the two drivers good day the crew headed for the cafe.


    They found the place with no trouble, there were quite a few horse and wagons tied up front.¡°Looks a bit rough, let¡¯s go ruffle some feathers.¡±, laughed Naomi.Together she and Minnie pushed open the door, eased two large drivers out of the way and stepped in.The two lads were a bit startled at being lifted up and put to one side, and didn¡¯t really know what was going on.Will followed the two inside.Larger than it looked from the outside, a long bar with stools and several tables set by the tall windows.¡°Hey, hey you, what are you playing at.¡±, it was one of the disgruntled fellows by the door, he had finally figured out how to react.¡°Now you settle down Liam, I¡¯m sure these nice young¡­ladies are just lost.¡±, the voice came from behind the bar.A tall man was leaning over and eyeing Minnie and Naomi with curiosity.¡°I don¡¯t like being pushed aside Tom, you should know me.I just want to have an oof.¡±.The last part came when Will had stopped the man in his tracks with a careful hand on his shoulder.Tom, who caught sight of Will, took a second look at the two others smiling at him.¡°Well well, I had hoped to see you in here one day captain, my lucky day hmmm.¡±.Liam also took a second look, mumbled an apology and went back to his spot by the door.As word got around the busy restaurant it didn¡¯t take long until everyone there was looking at the trio with curiosity.¡°Good morning, Tom is it?We were recommended by Ed and Rudy that this is the best place in town for breakfast.¡±, Will said.Minnie hopped up and stood on an empty stool, gave a few sniffs, ¡°Smells pretty good in here guy, we¡¯re pretty hungry though, can you help us out?¡±.Tom smiled ¡°I think we can do just that.¡±.A few minutes later they had been given a table with a nice view of the busy streets.No menu but Tom had pointed out the board above the bar that had todays offerings.¡°It¡¯s a pretty simple place.¡±, Naomi whispered to Will after they had ordered.There were a few different meals listed, each with a number.Good simple food for hard working people.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    The few empty tables had filled as word got around the crew was here, as had the bar stools.Their food came quickly, brought out by a familiar face, Bjorn who had just returned from gathering.He was surprised to see them here but soon rallied and dropped off their food.An nice full breakfast for Will, pancakes with fruit for Naomi and a big blue special for Minnie.Consisting of mostly sausages and bacon, held together by eggs and cheese.She took a bite, loved it and dove in to finish.A few cups of tea later they were ready to continue their day, thanked Tom, signed the payment book and were on their way.


    ¡°Well I liked it, nice place and fun people.¡±, Minnie said as they walked up the Main Street pushing their shopping cart. A few stops were planned, they wouldn¡¯t be back for at least three months and Newton had the things they needed.The usual places, Darren¡¯s tailoring for a start.As they entered he clapped his hands with pleasure.¡°Ah, my favourite customers, so good to see you.A good voyage I hope.Not in need of any winter gear yetI hope?¡±.Will shook his head, ¡°Not yet, a few months yet til we head north again, but we will really need it then.¡±.¡°Ready it will be, but I have the rest of your orders here.Just not the winter gear.¡±.Minnie was quite excited to hear that, they had spent hours here last visit and her order was huge.Same as Naomi¡¯s and Will also had many items.Darren called out his two assistants and together the three went through every item on the lists.¡°Fine work as usual Darren, thank you.¡±, Will shook hands with the man as his helpers loaded the waiting cart.Next stop was the cobbler, but again they didn¡¯t need the heavy fur covered boots for a few more months, just some everyday shoes.James showed Will a pair of the winter boots he had ordered, they looked huge but the warmth would be wonderful in the northern cold.¡°And you see captain, if they do get wet just swap out the liners for dry ones, and note the canvas at the top with the drawstring to keep snow out.¡±, he pointed out, ¡°No laces to freeze up either, pull them on and off easily.¡±.The crew were very impressed and Will assured James that his work was much appreciated.¡°It¡¯s hard for me to imagine it being so cold that the leather cracks, I¡¯m working on boots like this but using the sealskin you brought instead, very challenging indeed.¡±, the large man answered.


    After leaving James shop their cart was loaded with their other orders of shoes, boots and Wills flip flops, something that had intrigued the cobbler and now had several pairs hanging in his shop window.The day waned on as they explored the town from one end to the other, from the industrial area to the fine residences on a hill overlooking the harbour.Then to the school district where they met up with several of their temporary crew while the children were eating lunch outside.Minnie was so happy to see her littles, she joined in a game of soccer that was being played in one of the nearby fields.¡°Funny how quickly that got picked up.¡±, Will remarked to Naomi.¡°We played something like it in Laketown but with sticks, very rough game.I never played.¡±, she answered.Interesting, he thought, sounds like hockey.Not going there though.After a few minutes a teacher rang a handbell and the children had to line up for afternoon classes, he noticed Will and came walking over.A tall forbidding man, a swept back head of black hair, beaked nose in a black suit, walking stick in hand.¡°Oh oh.¡±, Will whispered to Minnie I think we¡¯re in trouble.¡±.As the man reached them he looked down his nose, Will felt about ten years old and scruffy.¡°I am Charles Fletcher, head master of this school and you are most welcome to visit us captain.¡±, he said.Smiling as he spoke his whole face changed from stern and unyielding to an open happy man.The children were calling to him to invite the captain to see the school, he turned back to the crew.¡°Is that something you might be interested in, to tour our school?¡±.From the way he said it Will could tell he was as eager as the children to show off.


    Will eyed Minnie, she nodded, then Naomi who was just as happy to go and see.¡°Mr Fletcher, we would love to come in and visit.¡±, Will said.And for the next two hours that was exactly what they did.The school had several grades in one building, from grade one, up to grade nine.That was when their school days were over, for most.Every class room was full of excited youngsters and the questions were amazing.What did they eat, how do they cook, are they afraid of the water, can I come aboard and so on.Nothing was off limits and in one class Minnie drew a detailed picture of the grey and black tank system of the boat.Very proud of her home she was and how well it worked.


    The schools curriculum was very simple, basic even.No options like Will was accustomed to from his children¡¯s days.There were music classes, physical activity, history, maths, reading and writing, and that was about it.Having the crew of the Rose here was an event, the boat was a part of their society, a huge part.And the history of her was the stuff of legends.From when she appeared in Laketown hundreds of years ago, the many voyages.The conversion to steam at the mysterious ship yard of her origins.Various captains were discussed in the history class, ones from Newton, or from Laketown and the ones, such as Will who were newcomers.People from an actual other world.The history teacher, an older woman named Mary, had gone on several gathering trips in her much younger days.She fondly remembered those times, even though the lake held nothing but dread now she was getting on in life.


    After stopping in each grades class and visiting Mr Fletcher escorted them to the main doors, ¡°Thank you so much.I don¡¯t think you realize how much it means to us all, everything that you do.Working so hard to help us, without the Rose we wouldn¡¯t be where we are.A growing town, all because of you.¡±.He shook their hands, overcome with emotion.One of the other teachers had come out as well and helped the headmaster to a nearby bench.¡°We¡¯re happy to help, it¡¯s a good life we have and to be of service is it¡¯s own reward.Perhaps we will come visit again.¡±, Will said as they left.¡°What a nice guy, I thought he was a real monster at first.¡±, Minnie said as the continued on through the town.Now passing into an housing area, neat little cottages.All with gardens full of fruit trees or bushes, rows of vegetables ready to pick.¡°Me too Minnie, he looked kinda brrrr, cold and mean.Just shows you can¡¯t tell from looks alone.¡±, Naomi answered.As they wandered the quiet streets the residents who were outside as they passed would wave or call a friendly greeting.


    After walking the streets for nearly an hour, just wandering, they found a familiar tea house.¡°Can we have lunch, or at least some cakies, all that walking tired my little legs right out.¡±, complained Minnie.¡°You rode in the cart most of the way, and you played soccer at the school with your little legs.How can you be tired?¡±, Naomi asked her.Min shrugged ¡°Practice.¡±.Of course they stopped in.Greeted by Howard this time, the normally chatty young lad was much quieter than usual.He seated them in the garden and said he would be right back with drinks and fresh cakes, if that was all right.¡°What¡¯s up with him, he usually talks our ears off?¡±, Minnie asked Will.¡°I don¡¯t know, looked like something was bothering him.¡±, Will said.He was back in a few minutes and, of course, Minnie asked what¡¯s wrong.¡°My uncle has a big farm, far away by the mountains and Sally has to go help with the children.His wife¡¯s not well and they have eight children, I¡¯ll miss her.¡±, he sighed.Yet another reason for a railway Will thought.¡°She won¡¯t be there forever Harold, and it¡¯s good that she can help, families important.¡±, Naomi added.¡°Oh I know, it¡¯s just that she was so looking forward to voyaging again and now she¡¯ll miss out, and I can¡¯t go cause I have to help here now, it¡¯s just not fair!¡±, and he stalked off into the tea house and slammed the door behind him.¡°Wow, he finally sounded like a typical teenager from my world, nothing going right for him.¡±, Will laughed.Harold came back out a few minutes later and apologized for his tantrum, ¡°I¡¯m not usually like this captain, I¡¯m sorry.¡±.¡°It¡¯s all right Howe, we¡¯re used to teens and their problems.¡±, Minnie reassured him.¡°We won¡¯t be gone forever, just a few months over winter.Then we have a spectacular project planned.¡±, Will added.The lad looked a him hopefully, ¡°You mean it, haha of course you do, I would love to go, wherever we¡¯re going, whatever we¡¯re doing, can you tell me, please I won¡¯t tell.¡±.Naomi looked at Will, he gave a slight nod, ¡°When we come back, we¡¯ll probably do a gathering trip.But then we¡¯re going north, far far north and building a dock.¡±.


    An hour later Minnie was still chuckling, remembering the look on Howard¡¯s face when Naomi had told him that.They had made it back to the shops lining the street heading down to the dock, and had made several purchases on the way.Will had managed to make several stops and bought several secrets for the day coming up.So had Minnie and Naomi, not spending too much, even though the amount of credit available to each was very nearly astronomical.They didn¡¯t normally have to buy anything so it was a novelty to buy gifts. Small things, just to let the other person know that they were thinking of them.However the crew did manage to nearly clear out the candy store of some of their favourites.The amazing little store had something for everyone, and was happy to deal with their varied wants and needs.Run by the happiest man Will had ever met, Stanley and his two adult children Petunia and Lilac.The owner confided to Will that this was his last year running the shop.He and his wife were retiring to a small property near the mountains in a quiet little town.¡°The girls already do a bang up job making most of the stock already, I¡¯m going to gift the store to them next spring.Then me and Angel are gone.¡±.He told Will he had to wait that long to arrange for all the wagons to move his household that far, it was a month long trip there and a month back.The carts carrying his furniture were usually carrying produce, mail and passengers.And there it was, another good reason for a train line.


    They had pounds of boiled sweets, candied fruit and candied vegetables,miniature cakes and a dozen varieties of liquorice. The new cream candies never lasted when they bought them but they all loved them so.Will had given Stanley a new idea, candy canes. Same as the stick candy he hadmade for years but with a hook.He promised to have a few dozen ready the next day and would deliver them himself before they weighed anchor.Next stop was the book sellers and printing shop, Will wanted to check on a couple of things they were going to publish for them.Minnie and Naomi¡¯s travel book, and a couple of story books Will had cobbled up with the help of the owners.Everything was planned to release in a week or so, and the older couple were very excited by the prospects.


    As they left there and browsed their way down the busy street, pushing their nearly full cart ahead, Will could see the sun was getting low.¡°Time to get back on board, I don¡¯t feel all that comfortable being away from her for too long.¡±.Minnie nodded, ¡°Me too, I think she¡¯s lonely without us.¡±.But as they got closer to the quay, they could see three black carriages waiting.A table and chairs had been setup on the beach again.But no friendly food wagon cooking away, this time it was the councillors of Newton come to visit.Will had a pretty good idea what was going on.

 Nearly Season鈥檚 Greetings

    Chapter 49.Nearly Seasons Greetings


    As the Rose steamed steadily away from Newton Bay, Will was reflecting on what had happened the day before leaving.


    After a day of shopping and wandering the town the crew had headed back to the quay.A bit of cleanup, an early dinner and preparation for leaving in the morning.The presence of the council waiting for them had been unexpected to say the least.They had set up a couple of tables in the usual spot, not too close to the water, John was present.As they spied the trio coming down the street, pushing their loaded cart, they stood to meet them.¡°Hello captain, hello to you all.¡± John called as they drew near.¡°Hi guy, come to see us off, we¡¯ll be gone a while yeah?¡± Minnie asked.¡°That we have, and to talk about an idea that William proposed.¡±, Dave answered this time.He had the sheaf of papers that they had worked on during the voyage back.They had been well thumbed through by the look.


    ¡°Do you really think we could do something like this Will?It would be a couple of years to get going, at least I think.¡±, Gemma asked, ¡°Not that our towns afraid of the work, I think it would be life changing for us.¡±.This had been on Will¡¯s mind, as soon as they had come up with the idea.¡°I had the same thought Gemma, there would be many changes.Young people are always eager to do the new thing, change things just because they can.¡±.Evelyn laughed, ¡°As always, my father was scandalized when I started keeping books with a pencil instead of ink.To hear him talk it was the end of the world.¡±.¡°I was the same, Matt was the progressive one.He would have been thrilled with this idea¡­I miss him so much.¡±John sighed.Minnie sat beside him, curled her small arm over his shoulder.¡°Dad told me something once, the ones we love are always here with us.Moms watching me, keeping me safe.I nearly got washed overboard a while ago,she saved me, put a rope near to grab.Matt¡¯s right there.¡±, she put her hand on his chest.


    Will hadn¡¯t realized, he knew that incident had scared the hell out of him, that¡¯s why the walkway was built as quick as possible.


    ¡°So then.¡±, Dave crinkled the papers to get everyone back on track, ¡°We all agreed this would be implemented, that we would go ahead.The idea of faster travel to the far places is just too exciting to let go.¡±.Will noticed Samantha had been a bit quiet about things, and not being one to let things go he asked her outright if she had second thoughts.¡°Oh no, I am definitely for the idea.Just concerned about Edward.He was so excited to be a wagoneer, to drive over the world.¡±.¡°Well the trains will require more people to run them, many more than the wagons.¡±, Will replied.¡°And the train doesn¡¯t go everywhere.He¡¯ll still be able to drive a wagon for years to come.¡±, he added.¡°We just wanted to catch up before you left and let you know that we approved the plans and will be starting construction soon.¡±, John said, ¡°We¡¯ll let you get on with your leaving preparations, a wagon will bring a good resupply early tomorrow, with our thanks.¡±.


    The meeting broke up, tables and chairs loaded up, handshakes all around and they were gone.¡°I was surprised they didn¡¯t ask for us to base out of here again.¡±, Naomi said.Will nodded, ¡°Me too, that¡¯s what I expected the meeting to be about.¡±.Minnie shook her head ¡°They¡¯re pretty nice people, I don¡¯t feel any sneakiness when I talk with them.¡±.Will had to agree, on the whole they were very open and friendly here.It was only natural for them to want to host the Rose, not just part time.


    It was only a few minutes and they were back on board. Minnie and Naomi disappeared below, to put away their treasures.Will stood on deck, looking out to sea, thinking of the days to come.Reconnecting with friends in Laketown, and then, and then he could hardly wait to see what was out there.To the south, and back again.Then to the west as far as they could go, until they ran into land or ended up at their start point.Didn¡¯t matter how long it took, they had time.To adventure forever on the infinite waves, yup he could do that.¡°Thinking about tomorrow, leaving again?¡±, Minnie¡¯s high pitched voice came from beside him.He hadn¡¯t noticed her come up again.¡°Yeah I am, just wondering what¡¯s out there, who we might meet.It¡¯s just so¡­¡±, he said to her.¡°We know, I feel the same way, Naomi too, right?¡± Minnie answered.¡°That¡¯s one of the reasons I¡¯m here, to see more of my world, and I love you guys.¡±, Naomi had come up on Wills left side, without him seeing her either.The trio stood at the rail, just watching the endless waves.


    Passersby at the end of the quay looked over at them, shook their heads and moved on, unable or unwilling to think of travelling on the waters.Except for one man.John the councillor stood on the beach.As close as he could, then forced himself to take step after step until his shoes were dampened by the incoming tide.To be actually touching the water that his beloved had passed on was as comforting as it was terrifying.¡°See you soon Matt.¡±, he whispered, ¡°a couple more things to do, then we¡¯ll rest together.¡±.He turned and walked slowly back to the town.


    In the Laketown hideout


    ¡°Should I sort the screws and bolts by type or by length.¡±, one voice asked across the echoey long room.No answer.¡°Hey, hey you, yeah you, the guy with a face full of pie.¡±.A soft murmur, nearly inaudible, came back to him.¡°Sort by type, what their used for, okay.¡±.A moment passed then, ¡°What¡¯s this one for?It¡¯s a metal screw, okay what¡¯s it used for?¡±.Another soft answer.The tray of hardware that was being sorted was thrown on a workbench, ¡°Well then you do it if you know so much better then!¡±, an angry voice shouted out.The room went quiet, as both residents froze in place, seeing if anyone had noticed the noise.Then ¡°I¡¯m sorry brother, I¡¯ll just sort and tidy the bigger tools, you do the, what did you call it, the fasteners stuff.¡±.The duo went back to work.The workbenches and cupboards that lined the room were glistening in places, from being cleaned for the first time in months.


    They hadn¡¯t needed to worry, their lair was not close to any other buildings, in a fairly remote location.None of the residents of Laketown would come near, the two burglars hadn¡¯t realized yet.They didn¡¯t know that they had chosen the one spot in the village, that even if they had been caught in the act, they were utterly safe.Was it luck, maybe.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    On the lake


    Now it was just the three crew again.Easier to relax, no pressure to get going, get working.Just bobbing along.The course was set, and the ship was puffing steadily along at one third.From here to Laketown would take a week at least, if the weather cooperated.Will laughed as he wrote that in the log.Depending on weather when you live on the water was a foolish idea.You don¡¯t depend on something you can¡¯t control.He had been at the helm for a couple of hours now, not actually manning the wheel but in command.Because of their uniqueness as the only boat in the world you didn¡¯t need to stay at the wheel.Once you¡¯re on course your set.They quite often tied the wheel in place while in familiar waters and good weather that is.There were always chores to do, decks to clean, salt to scrub off gear and hardware, windows to wash, it was a long ongoing list.He had been doing most of that while Minnie and Naomi toiled below.There was also fish to catch for dinners, cards to play at the bow, tea to drink sitting at the stern.And of course their special day coming.The first Christmas for a couple of them, and a renewal of holidays Will had celebrated for many years.Today was December 23, a day of cleaning was planned and preparations for the next two days of holidays.Finding a snug safe harbour and just relax and enjoy the days.


    ¡°If I do one more load of laundry I¡¯ll smell like it forever, and ever.¡±, Minnie had come on deck with yet one more load of sheets and blankets from crew quarters.Several clotheslines had been set up to dry the huge amount of wet stuff.The fresh breezes and warm sun dried the flapping sheets very quickly and they smelled amazing afterwards.Will and Minnie hung that last load to dry, stepped back to admire their handiwork.¡°That¡¯s the last of it?¡±, Will asked.Minnie nodded ¡°Yup, we aren¡¯t going to use that for a while.¡±.¡°I¡¯ve been thinking.¡±, Will said, ¡°But I¡¯ll tell you guys at dinner, a surprise.¡±.¡°If you tell me now it¡¯ll still be a surprise for Naomi, I hate waiting.¡±, Minnie complained.¡°Waiting for what?¡±, came a light voice behind them.Naomi had come on deck with a tray of steaks and fixings for the grill.Out of sheer habit Will looked at his wrist, his bare wrist, to see what time it was.Minnie laughed, she had seen that before.The first couple of times she had asked why, now she knew and still found it funny.


    ¡°Waiting on a surprise dad has, about laundry, but he won¡¯t tell me til your here and that drives me nuts, but your here, so let¡¯s go old guy, what¡¯s the surprise.¡± Minnie went on, ¡°Better be good, making me wait all this time.¡±.This time Will laughed at her, ¡°It¡¯s been like two minutes, sorry to make you wait that long.¡±.She shrugged and waved her hand imperiously, ¡°Continue peasant.¡±.They had made their way to the bow, Will nipped into the wheelhouse and checked the course.Naomi and Minnie lit the charcoal in the grill and set the taters and veggies to cook.Seeing everything was under control Will settled into his seat, then ran back inside and retrieved his cuppa beside the ships wheel.Back in his seat he could see Minnie beginning to vibrate.¡°All right all right, so I had a thought about the laundry from the gathering kids.How we always get stuck washing it all after they leave, right?¡±, he said.Naomi nodded wearily, ¡°Yes, and it¡¯s a lot of work for everyone.¡±.Will agreed ¡°Well this was the last time.We¡¯re going to have several sets, sheets, blankets, pillow, towels and so on.When the crew leaves so will the dirty laundry.It can get washed ashore and come back with our usual supplies.¡±.Minnie stood and cheered, ¡°Hurray, no more laundry days.¡±.Will held his hand up, ¡°We still have to do our own, but that¡¯s easy enough.¡±.Naomi also looked much happier at the thought of not doing twenty loads in one day.¡°We will still have to wash stuff that gets wet or dirty when their aboard but if it¡¯s just a bedding change out then that can wait til we return to the village.¡±.¡°The stuff will last longer too, some of the towels get a lot of use and are getting a bit threadbare.¡±, Naomi added.Minnie was still grinning happily, ¡°Thanks dad, but how come you didn¡¯t think of this before, we¡¯ve done lots of laundry the last few trips.¡±.Will shrugged ¡°It just came to me, don¡¯t know why it didn¡¯t before.¡±.


    Then another thought hit him like a thunderbolt.¡°Hey why you look all stunned and thinky?¡±, Minnie asked.He pulled out his notebook, wrote down a couple of words, then started sketching.Naomi peeked over his shoulder, ¡°What are sleeping bags?¡±.Minnie also had a look at his drawing and her eyes widened, ¡°Wow, what a good idea.Instead of blankets and stuff, don¡¯t have to make beds anymore either.Can we do that too¡­nah never mind, I like blankets and quilts.¡±.The idea of sleeping in a bag gave Naomi the giggles but she did see how much easier it would be, ¡°You know, my auntie in Laketown, well not really my auntie she¡¯s more like my cousin, on my moms side, not dads, he just had one brother right?But he had no kids so I don¡¯t have cousins there, I do but¡­bleargh¡±, Minnie had placed her hand over her mouth.She nodded ¡°Only one motormouth allowed on board, k?¡±.Will nearly fell over laughing and had spilled his warm tea on his legs, good thing it was shorts.Naomi was shooting daggers at Minnie but had quieted down, then Minnie was pulling her hand away with a cry of ¡°Ohyuckicky!¡±, as Naomi had managed to lick her hand.She wiped her hand, Naomi wiped her face and went on.¡°As I was saying, I know someone in Laketown that can make those for us.¡±.They played around with the design for a while, while dinner cooked and when the side dishes were ready, Will laid the thick steaks on the grill.The final plan for the bags was very simple.A rectangular bag that would fit the bunks, thinner on the lower part and thick on the top.Not too much insulation, the rooms were warmed by radiators if needed but enough to keep the occupants nice and toasty.No zippers here yet, so it was going to be large buttons and a flap over that.The plan was to get at least twenty, so there was a change if need be.Then the soiled ones sent to be laundered on shore, retrieved next trip.¡°That should cut back on our work, easier on the kids too, don¡¯t have to make beds anymore.¡±, Will said.¡°I hate making the bed, I finally get comfortable, all nice and curled up, lil peephole to breathe through and I¡¯m good, then next day it¡¯s all flat and tight again..¡± sighed Minnie.


    Wills and Minnie¡¯s steaks were always rare, Naomi¡¯s more medium, so hers was out on a few minutes earlier then theirs.So everyone¡¯s was ready at the same time.Dishing out and settling at the table, eating in the dimming daylight as the Rose steamed along.¡°You know, one of those wagon guys asked how I could stand the sound of the steam engine, chuffing away hour after hour.¡±, Minnie said, ¡°I told him I don¡¯t really even hear it anymore.¡±.Naomi added ¡°Me either, unless I think about it, or if it shut off out here.¡±.Those are the guys that might have trouble when Newton builds their railway.¡±, Will said, ¡°They¡¯re so used to horse or oxen pulling the wagons, I guess everybody is though.When the locomotives are built it will be a big change.¡±.


    Standing up, Will clicked the igniter for the bow lantern.As the warm light spread over them he hadn¡¯t realized just how dark it had gotten.Their meal done, Naomi had gone below and retrieved an apple pie she had warming in the galley and some fresh clotted cream.While she did that, and took care of the dishes, Will and Minnie took down the now dry wash.Taking the load to the now empty crew rooms they folded it quickly and met Naomi coming out of the mess.Minnie helped by carrying the pie, Will grabbed the cream and plates, shoved the utensils in his pocket and headed for the deck.Naomi laughed ¡°I¡¯ll just bring some napkins then, okay, okay?¡±.¡°Better hurry.¡±, drifted down, ¡°Dads still hungry.¡±.She set off at a run, ¡°I¡¯m coming Minnie, save me at least a piece.¡±.


    Pie with cream, what a way to live, eating dessert under the stars was pretty wonderful.Tomorrow would be here soon.Thinking about the day, Christmas Eve, and the fun to come made Will think about years in the past.Back in the days where he and his wife had little ones at home.They prepared a feast, food of all kinds for the family to eat all day.In the evening they¡¯d watch old Christmas movies on tv til the kids fell asleep.After putting them to bed, wrapping presents to put under the tree.Then the next morning, ah what fun, watching the kids tear into the presents.All the treasures they¡¯d wanted. Cooking all afternoon, eating the turkey dinner with family and friends.Wonderful memories, and now to make some more.

 鈥楾was the Day Before

    Chapter 50. the Day Before


    Minnie had been waiting for this day for a while now.Ever since dad had told her and Naomi about it, oh so many months ago.When they were first in the frozen north.The idea of special days, like birthdays and Christmas were exciting.That one day would be unlike every other day, treated different.Ever since the idea of weekends had come around she found herself looking at the calendar.Thinking about what they would do on the weekend, how to celebrate birthdays, and of course these next two days.She didn¡¯t really know what Christmas was, dad had explained of course but there were many things that she just didn¡¯t get.Why on this particular date?Why does that Santa guy wear red?Who thought up the names of his reindeer?Cause the burrows guys didn¡¯t name theirs.And they didn¡¯t fly, at least not why she was there.Now that made her giggle, the thought of the three big guys flying around on reindeer.¡°He¡¯d probably call his oatmeal.¡±, she muttered.It was a lot for her to take in, this adopting a holiday just like that.When she talked with Naomi she found the other girl felt the same way, excited and nervous.Dad was so looking forward and they were both afraid of letting him down, that things wouldn¡¯t be as fun as he remembered.


    While she was mulling all this over her nimble little hands had been busy.Sometimes she would be thinking and find she had tinkered away without realizing what she was doing.Her creation sitting on the desktop in front of her, sometimes with no clue what it was.An amalgam of parts with no purpose, just her hands showing off.Her workshop was on the lowest deck, along with the various storerooms, dad let her choose.No, that¡¯s not right, she thought.He didn¡¯t let her, he said that made him uncomfortable, that he was in control and allowed this or that.Sometimes he had to make a decision about the boat as captain, but never about their little family.Any concerns anyone had, questions about travel plans or menu ideas, they talked it over and decided together.


    So when she mentioned that having a workroom would be nice he had smiled and together they chose a location.He helped her with desks, cupboards, tool racks, everything her instincts told her she needed. This was where she had been working on her gifts for dad and Naomi.It had been difficult and frustrating, but so rewarding.Learning to make and shape, cutting and bending metal, glass and wood, to actually create with your own hands.And now looking down at the fruits of her labor, the hours and days of careful work, now she could hardly wait to give them away.Carefully wrapping both gifts in soft clothes, then into a small wooden box inscribed with their names, she set them aside and started cleaning up.Tools back in the right place, scraps in the bin, left over supplies put in the right drawer, desk wiped clean and floor swept.Surveying her domain she was satisfied.Taking her gifts, placed in her side bag, she carried a few plates and bowl, empty mugs and glasses, even some silverware thathad migrated here somehow.All this on a tray, she hoped to get it back to the galley without being caught.


    Tiptoeing up the ladder to the mid deck she looked around, seeing the coast was clear she made a beeline to the galley and placed the tray of dishes in the sink.Mission accomplished!Now to the lounge to leave her gifts under the tree.Walking a bit easier now that the contraband had been dropped off in the galley, but there was still no sound of sign of life on this deck.She knew dad was drinking tea on the bow, but not sure where Naomi was.Shrugging she opened the lounge door, no one in here.The gifts were carefully placed in the box the tree sat in.There were¡­she quickly counted, eight presents there now, but no name tags, just numbers.What a dirty trick!Laughing she left the lounge and went up and on deck.


    Naomi¡¯s room door creaked open slowly and her head slowly and carefully looked to see if the corridor was empty.Finding no one around she quickly went the few steps to the lounge.She also had gifts in hand, both carefully wrapped in what was once plain paper but was now very festive.She had worked on the wrapping paper for the last couple of days trying to get it just right.Looking at the array of gifts under their tree she hoped her offerings would be well received.Knowing dad and Minnie well by now she knew their tastes, time would tell though.Also shaking her head at the numbered gifts it was time to get some fresh air on deck. And fresh air it was, a bit of a colder front had blown in from the north, nothing much like the storms of the north, but still chilly.Sweater weather.She found Will lounging in his deck chair, tea in hand, frowning at his notebook.¡°What did it do?¡±, she asked.He jumped slightly at her words, then shook his head.¡°Nothing, just having a bit of a block in my writing.It happens from time to time.¡± He replied.¡°Oh, the stories for the children, or the grownups?¡±, Naomi continued as she sat with him, and poured a cuppa from the pot.Will closed his book with a sigh, ¡°The stories for older people, about the little people and the dragon.That can wait though, it¡¯s Christmas Eve.No morework.¡±.


    The Rose was anchored in a small natural harbour they had found along the coast.Never noticed before as they hadn¡¯t been this close to shore.Will preferred to keep a good distance while making way, but after leaving Newton the day before the plan was to take two days and celebrate then back to work.After a few hours cruising this place had been found.The boat was as clean as could be, they had worked like fiends before and after tying up. Tanks emptied and flushed, decks scrubbed, all the crews laundry in its place, perhaps never to be used again.The galley had been running non stop preparing their feast for today, not everything that Wills family used to have, but enough that they wouldn¡¯t starve.Cakes and biscuits, soft rolls and fresh bread. Nothing hot for today but a goodly amount of what Will called finger food.¡°Why did you call it that?¡±, Naomi asked.¡°Cause you eat it with your fingers, don¡¯t need knives and forks.¡±, Minnie answered.Set up buffet style in the lounge the crew was ready to attack.By the amount of biscuit crumbs that Minnie was wiping from her whiskers, she might have had a bit of a munch already.


    After a final check of anchors and weather they all went below to enjoy the day.Started off by playing canasta, a nice long game.Taking lots of breaks to load up their plates with all the good food.Devilled eggs, cheeses, smoked sausage, soft rolls, even some pickled beets and pickled onions.Minnie tried the pickles and hated them, Naomi liked both and regular pickles as well.¡°How could you like those¡­things, they¡¯re awful, taste like bleargh and look like green poops, and the red ones are even worse, they made my tongue curl up in my mouth.¡±, Minnie ranted.Will shrugged, ¡°We made them for years, we both loved them.¡±.Her eyes widened ¡°Mom liked these, the green ones too?¡±.Laughing he shook his head, ¡°Oh no, she despised regular pickles, she liked her pickled beets though, regular beets too.¡±.Minnie sighed in relief ¡°As least she wasn¡¯t all the way nuts then, just a bit¡­oh look at that dad,¡±, Will had made a play and discarded a card on to the pile, ¡°I just happen to have opened, and have a pair of eights, that discard pile is mine.¡±.She drew the huge stack of cards towards her with glee.¡°Well, good one, but didn¡¯t you just say you weren¡¯t open and not even close to getting it.¡±, Will said.Looking up from counting her treasure she said¡°I lied.¡±, and went back to sorting.Naomi was keeping score in this hours long game and flipped her cards on the table, ¡°I concede, Minnie you¡¯ve won by nearly ten thousand points.¡±.¡°Yeah me too sweetie, you¡¯re the winner and well done.¡±, Will added.Minnie leaned back in her chair and stretched her arms, ¡°Let¡¯s go on deck and tell stories under the stars, then you can read that night before story you wrote.¡±.¡°Good idea, I¡¯m just gonna fix a plate, some cheese and buttered buns, maybe some sausage and more pickles.¡±.Minnie was fixing her own as was Naomi, ¡°You can keep the pickles dad, but that last piece of sausage is mine.¡±, and snatched it and ate happily.¡°I¡¯m going to make a fresh pot of tea too, anyone else for a cuppa?¡±, Will asked.Minnie just snorted but Naomi said she¡¯d like one too.


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    On deck the sky was glorious.Even though it was winter the weather was warm, a very light wind gently blew over them as they took their regular spots.Setting his plate on a side table Will had no fear Minnie would appropriate his goodies, there was a protective barrier of pickles.She wouldn¡¯t go near.Naomi had brought her violin and Minnie her penny whistle.They limbered up for a moment then started playing their favourites, ¡®Whiskey in the Jar¡¯, or the unicorn song, ¡®The Lady in Black¡¯, ¡®Gypsy Rover¡¯ and so on.At one point Will stood and bowed in front of Minnie, she had no clue what that meant.Naomi kept the song going as Will showed Minnie how to dance.Minnie discovered that she was naturally good and she and Will danced to the sweet sounds.Then switching partners Will took Naomi for a twirl while Minnie played ¡®The Orange and the Green¡¯.A few more songs, dancing with each of his daughters and Will called it quits.¡°That was so much fun Pop, I love dancing and you¡¯re so good at it.¡±, Minnie laughed. She was rumpled and a bit wind blown but her eyes were sparkling and her ears were up, tail wagging like mad.Naomi was the same, her usual impeccable hair was tousled and messy, ¡°Where did you learn to do that dad, I¡¯ve never danced like that before!¡±. Sitting down and taking a long drink of his now lukewarm tea Will said ¡°My wife loved to dance and for years I didn¡¯t like to.I just felt self conscious about it, that everyone was watching me and laughing.¡±, he sat back with a sigh.¡°It took a while but we finally went for dance lessons and I loved it.I wish we, well mostly me, had done it years earlier.I was stubborn and shortsighted and it¡¯s one of the very few regrets I have, that I wish I could do over.¡±.Minnie could feel he was a bit upset about that, so she quickly changed the subject.¡°Hey, you were supposed to tell a story, a funny one, remember?¡±.Will stared at her for a moment or two, lost in another place then laughed.¡°Oh you¡¯ll love this one.¡±.


    A long time ago, we lived in this little duplex, Will started to tell.It was a nice place, the front door opened up to a huge play field and the kids school was right there.A great place to ride bikes, skateboards or whatever.Wehad a big yard with a swing set for the kids, raspberry bushes and a good size veggie garden.Your mom worked day shift and night shift, sometimes back to back and slept during the day, which was tough with rambunctious children around.I usually cooked dinner, not always but most of the time.But anyway, I had made an easy dinner, bangers and mash.We were all sitting down to eat and our son wanted ketchup for his sausages.¡°What¡¯s that?¡±, Minnie interrupted.¡°It¡¯s a sauce like mustard but made from tomatoes, it¡¯s thick red sticky goo.¡±.¡°Thanks pop, go on.¡± she waved.


    So dinner was ready and we were all sitting around the table, and our son wanted ketchup.So he got up and grabbed a new bottle from the pantry.Now, there was already a bottle on the table, but it was mostly empty.He started opening the new one, my wife said to use up the old one first.Complaining that he wanted the new one he continued to fiddle with the bottle, trying to open it.Mom took it and put it to one side and told him again to use up the old one.We got to talking about her day and how things were going at work.Our son waited until she was distracted and took the new bottle of ketchup and tried opening it again.This thoroughly irritated mom and she grabbed the bottle, yelled at him to leave it and slammed the bottle down on the table beside her.


    It was a big plastic bottle, and when it hit the table it shattered and went off like a bomb.It was everywhere, we were all wearing it.It was dripping off the ceiling onto us.I was covered, mom was covered, the kids were covered.And we all just sat there, waiting, not knowing what was going to happen, should we laugh or cry.Mom was shaking and I thought she was going to blow up and she did, with laughter.Great belly laughs and tears running down.Our son looked at his ketchup covered plate, said thanks mom, and ate his sausages.We never did get all the ketchup stains out of the ceiling and walls.


    Minnie dissolved into laughter as did Naomi.¡°Yeah, I wouldn¡¯t have moved until she did either .¡±.¡°Oh that¡¯s a good one dad, at least he did get the new stuff after all.¡±, added Naomi.That made Minnie start up again, and Will had to laugh too.It was a good story and the memories were too.


    Next Naomi told a tale of how she and her family had been snowed inside their house one year.So much snow had fallen, different from other years.Usually the village got a bit of wet snow but this year a blizzard had come off of the lake and dumped six feet of snow everywhere.Then a high wind had hardened the crust til you could walk on it.Her and her sister had to climb out of an upper window and shovel their way to the door then clear all around the house.The children enjoyed the deep snow, the adults not at all.


    After these stories were told, Will noticed Minnie looked a bit sad.¡°What¡¯s wrong sweetheart?¡±, he asked putting his arm around her.¡°I¡¯m okay, I just don¡¯t have any cool stories to tell.We¡¯re always together, you guys know everything that goes on.¡±, she sighed.Ah, he thought, I see now.¡°Honey, we have years and years together, this is just year one.Think of what we will be in a few hundred, you¡¯ll probably have a story or two then.¡±, he said.Naomi looked at her mischievously, ¡°Well you could tell the story when you walked in on William and Greta in the galley.I¡¯m sure dad would be interested in what was going on.¡±.Will swivelled his head and looked at her, ¡°Pray tell.¡±.Minnie laughed nervously, ¡°I promised never to peach on them, they gave me biscuits, really yummy ones, Willys dad made them.¡±.¡°Not in his smoker I hope?¡±, Will asked.¡°Hope not.¡±, Minnie replied.She had cheered a bit and asked a question that had been on her mind.¡°Is this okay, what we¡¯re doing for Christmas Eve, like what you used to do with mom.We don¡¯t want to mess it up, ruin it for you.¡±.Will looked over at Naomi, she looked a bit nervous too, he hummed a bit.He stood and sat between them, pulling Naomi close too.¡°Spending time with the ones you love is always fun.If we¡¯re fishing, or playing cards, singing Christmas carols, or just sitting around.When I¡¯m around you two my life is complete.What we have here is different from before, and that¡¯s fine, we¡¯ll make our history from here on.¡±.Minnie burrowed her head into his shoulder and hugged him, ¡°I was so scared of ruining this for you.¡±, she mumbled.¡°My dear little girl,¡±, he lifted her face and looked into her eyes, ¡°You couldn¡¯t do anything of the sort.¡±.He looked at Naomi too, ¡°Same for you sweetie, when Minnie and I met you we just knew.I think we¡¯ve turned out pretty well, our little family.¡±.She returned his hug, reached over and flicked Minnie¡¯s ear, ¡°Told you so.¡±.Minnie gave an irritated squeak, glared at the girl and promised revenge, but not tonight.¡°Hey dad, can we dance again, I loved that.¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Sure, you and Naomi can take turns playing and twirling, makes me wish I could play a tune now. Perhaps it¡¯s time to learn.¡±, Will answered.


    And again merry tunes rang out, from a fiddle and a penny whistle, some times one and sometimes both.Happy laughter, whoops of glee as the dancers capered across the deck.At times Will clapped out a rhythm and sang the ballads so Minnie and Naomi could dance together. Strumming a guitar or ukulele would be enough to keep a tune, promising himself to get on that as soon as he could.


    Seeing that things were winding down, they left the now chilly deck and repaired to the lounge.Will had written down a poem to the best of his recollection but Naomi had rewritten the words in her much better hand and Minnie had illustrated the events.It wasn¡¯t a very long poem, but that was okay.It was just the thing for tonight.With Minnie on one side of him, Naomi on the other Will turned the first page and began to read,


    ¡®Twas the night before¡­

 Celebrations

    Chapter 51.Celebrations


    Back in his old world the saying went, ¡®Christmas for kids and new years for adults¡¯.It had never made sense to go out and drink til you couldn¡¯t stand but that was just him.In all his years he hadn¡¯t been a big drinker, maybe a beer now and then or a glass of wine.But he could just not bother at all, no great loss.Christmas was one of his favourite times though, when all the family came together.Seeing the little ones and the big ones, who used to be little ones¡­seeing their faces light up, that was very special.When it had been them and their children the rule was you could open your stockings, then breakfast and after that then opening presents.It was hard for little guys to wait but rules are rules, he couldn¡¯t remember a time when that had been changed.Then later it was just the two of them, still having their morning, still doing breakfast first.It had been comforting.


    Blinking awake he found Minnie¡¯s wet nose half an inch from his own.¡°Merry Christmas, can we open the presents now, cause putting numbers on them was terrible and funny, I shook them but no rattles, did you wrap them in stuff, that would be terrible too, Naomi made tea for you, that and toast is waiting in the lounge, but it¡¯s probably cold now, I¡¯ve been waiting so looong.¡±.Naomi¡¯s voice carried in, ¡°Morning dad, the teas not cold and you¡¯ve only been up for five minutes Minnie.¡±.The little person crouching over him laughed, ¡°Feels like forever, come on pop.¡±.Will reached up and patted her shoulder ¡°Lemme up sweetie, gotta use the head, then we can open up.¡±.She jumped back, tugged all the blankets off and stood tapping her foot.He got up, did the necessary and came out, threw on a robe.¡°Gotta check the boat first, quick trip on deck okay?¡±, he told her.¡°We know.¡±, she said.


    Climbing the ladder and opening the stair door found the crew in a perfectly normal day.Light fresh wind, blue skies with a high skim of clouds.The sun was barely over the horizon but promised to warm the boat soon.Gulls calling and wheeling over the beach, even a couple of pelicans flying sedately along the shore in search of whatever pelicans needed.Not much like the Christmas weather I¡¯m used to, he thought, that¡¯s all the way north of here and it can stay there.Checking the anchors took only a minute or two, giving the windlass a crank to see if the anchors had shifted over night but they were tight.They scanned the horizon for storm clouds but it was clear in every direction, all signs pointed to a good day, so back below they went.


    The lounge was warm and comfortable and Will settled into his easy chair with a sigh.Minnie sat beside him, close to the tree and looked at him with pleading eyes.¡°All right, all right.Let me find the list, shows me who gets what number¡±, Will laughed, reaching for his notebook.¡°Yeah, that was a dirty trick you know.How was I supposed to snoop if I didn¡¯t know which was which.¡±, Minnie said indignantly.¡°Kinda the whole point you know?¡±, Will answered, ¡°Ah, here we go.¡±.Reading out from his list ¡°Number one is for Minnie and number three is for Naomi.Minnie quickly searched out those numbers and handed Naomi hers and ripped into her own.


    It only took a short while until every present had been opened.Wrapping paper had been everywhere, it wasn¡¯t the brightly coloured stuff that Will had used in his past.But simple brown or white paper decorated with stars, moons, boats, whatever the wrapper decided.Will was quite happy with what he had given to Minnie and Naomi.An assortment of their favourite candies, the usual socks and slippers, a skipping rope that he had crafted over the past months.He thought it would help with exercise when the weather was bad.A memory book for Minnie, from the past year and before their life here.How he felt about her and how her being with him had saved him after losing his wife.For Naomi he had also constructed a book, mostly a cook book but also where the recipe came from, who had introduced it to him.And again, by pure coincidence, they were his favourite recipes too.From Oliebollen to pizza, croquettes to cheeseburgers.


    Naomi had gifted Will and Minnie oiled wool sweaters, made from the finest wool she could find.Her uncles had worn these for years while farming and hunting and she had knit them in the evening, one for herself too.¡°It¡¯s best if you wear them close to your skin, the wool will keep you warm and cool.It just works like that.¡±, she added as the other two were admiring the new sweaters.¡°I love the smell.¡±, Minnie said, her nose buried in the wool.¡°There¡¯s at least three different sheep that gave the wool, they smell so good.¡±.Will could tell it was definitely wool, but that was about it.He knew that merino wool was highly valued in his old world by people who spent time outside.¡°I was going to make long underwear for us too, but I ran out of time, and wool.I have to pick up more when we get to Laketown.¡±, Naomi added.


    Minnie had been holding two small boxes back and now passed them over to Will and Naomi.¡°I hope you like these, I worked on these for the past few months.I can¡¯t believe you guys didn¡¯t catch on.¡±, she said nervously.Will opened his and found something amazing.The small wooden box was nicely made and when Will opened it he heard a ticking.Inside was a pocket watch.His mouth dropped open and he couldn¡¯t believe it.¡°You..wow Min, I¡¯m.¡±, he stuttered.Naomi was equally shocked at finding one nearly exactly like it in her package.Wills was engraved with a rendering of the ship, on the outer cover which popped open when you pressed the stem.Naomi¡¯s had a simple rose.About twice as big as his grandfather¡¯s which was still in a case in the wheelhouse, far as he knew.¡°I had to make it big, I tried copying the other one but the parts are just too small.I couldn¡¯t get the gears right, then I figured out it would work the same even if it was big.Do you guys like it?¡±, she asked nervously.Naomi was mostly stunned but knelt and hugged her.¡°Of course, it¡¯s wonderful.¡±, she answered.Will recovered his wits and reassured her, ¡°I love it, but I didn¡¯t even realize you were working on this yet, when did you start?¡±.Minnie laughed, ¡°All those times in the wheelhouse I was taking the watch apart and drawing the pieces, then put it back together real quick.Took a while but there they are.¡±.


    An amazing gift indeed, Will hadn¡¯t realized her skill had progressed to making something as intricate as this.He had seen her take it apart the first time, a few months ago when they had found it in the dock at Laketown.But nothing since, she had kept that secret well.She had been in her workshop late some nights now that the weather was good.It was hard to do much of anything in twenty foot waves.¡°I¡¯m working on a couple of big ones, the ones for in here and the mess.I know the kiddies won¡¯t get it but now it will be easier to plan stuff.Instead of saying in a little while, we¡¯ll all know when.¡± Minnie continued.


    After the excitement of opening present the tea and toast had gone cold.Will made a fresh pot and decided he needed some eggs with his toast so he pulled out the poacher.¡°Hey, you guys want a couple of eggs too?¡±, hecalled down the corridor.¡°Oh yeah, maybe some sausages too, hold on¡­yeah Naomi wants potatoes too, in those square things you make, and oh wow dad, she wants bacon too.¡±.He could Naomi laughing in the background, ¡°Right, full breakfasts coming up.¡± he called back.It didn¡¯t really take too long, peeling a potato required no thought at all, and before long the shreds were frying away in the forms, bacon and sausages slow cooking beside them.He could hear music coming from the lounge, Christmas tunes today.Sometimes Minnie singing, other times Naomi.Thinking back to the last December 25, it had been just before leaving on their Mexican trip.


    They had saved for a couple of years and were so looking forward to this long trip.Celebrating with the kids and grandkids was one of the last things before they left the next day.This year they were at their daughters house as their son lived on the coast now, this had also been a long trip but worth it to see family over the holidays.And they had to drop off their new puppy, she was going to stay with the family for the duration.The other pets, two cats had been boarded in a kennel, but there had been no room for Minnie.The next day flying down to New Orleans, boarding the ship and cruising down the Mexican coast for two weeks, stop overs and excursions all planned.It was hard to say goodbye after such a nice day but it was only for a couple of weeks.


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    Oops, the bacon was getting a little crispy, that got put on the hob to warm then Will turned his attention to the taters, flipping them over.Nearly ready so the poacher was out on the heat.Looking at it brought back more memories, one very close to this one was sitting on his counter at his old house.¡°Well it used too, wonder what happened to everything?¡±, he thought aloud.His passing, in any way you want to think about it, from his world to this one, had been pain free for him.Maybe not so much for those left behind.It was odd to be thinking about these facts now, it was probably the day¡¯s events that brought memories to the surface.Thinking back he remembered coming to an empty house, after returning from that horrible trip.The nights in the hospitals, both Mexico and home.The weeks and months that followed, hollowed out and alone.If he hadn¡¯t had Minnie to take care of he would have¡­well he had dark thoughts.The boat trip had been his attempt to get back in the world.A way to reconnect with the past and face a very different future that he had dreamed of.


    Seeing that everything was ready, he reached out the mess door and rang the dinner bell.The music stopped and he heard Minnie¡¯s happy whoop, ¡°Coming dad, we¡¯re starving.¡±.The sound of her voice, and Naomi¡¯s coming closer filled his heart with joy and as they came into the mess he picked up Minnie and spun her around.Then setting her near he gathered Naomi into a tight hug as well.¡°Thank you for your gifts today, and thank you for being part of my family.¡±.Min didn¡¯t know what had brought that on, neither did the other girl, didn¡¯t matter though, hugs were always welcome.¡°Hey dad, you okay?You seem sad, what¡¯s going on?¡±, Minnie asked when she saw him, she could tell something had been up.¡°Nah it¡¯s all good sweetie, just memories of the day, let¡¯s eat I¡¯m starved.¡±, he answered.


    And, just like that, he had to put his old life behind him.Yes there were hard memories, bad times, things he had lived through but there were thousands of good memories as well.All of those had formed him into who he was now, Captain Will Harris, of the steamboat Rose.Living and working on the endless water.Given a second chance at life, perhaps, by someone and for all he knew this happened to everyone.It¡¯s not like anyone had returned to let people know what happened.No, he was content and more than content in this world.


    Breakfast, one of the nicest words in any language.Starts the day right, connects family, or friends.Gives you time to plan the day.Are we going to work hard today or just laze around and fish for our dinner?Shall we change our rooms around to get a fresh perspective or just let it go and eat toast and drink tea?The choice one makes doesn¡¯t matter it¡¯s having that choice that counts.It looked as though Minnie had made the choice to eat bacon and sausage until she was nearly bursting.¡°Holy moly Min, slow down, I think dad wanted at least one banger.¡±, Naomi laughed.¡°I¡¯m ok sweetie, I¡¯ll just have a few more hash browns,.¡±, but as he reached for the last one he made the mistake of meeting Naomi¡¯s eyes.All sad and reproachful, brimming with tears¡­¡±Do you guys practice that?¡±, Will asked, pulling back from the golden fried tater patty.¡°On each other.¡±, the young girl laughed, taking the hash brown and sliding it onto his plate.¡°Oh for Pete¡¯s sake, I forgot the poached eggs.¡±: he suddenly remembered, standing to get them.Sadly they were not salvageable, hard burnt blocks of eww.¡°Sorry guys, no eggs today, unless you want scrambled?¡±, he asked.Minnie waved her hand, ¡°Not for me, I might have eaten a bit too much bacon, I¡¯m going to lie down .¡±.Naomi shook her head too, ¡°Same here, I¡¯ll see you later dad.¡±.Looking at his empty plate he felt a bit full from the last of the potatoes, quickly cleaned up the table, set the pans soaking and headed back to his cabin too.The ticking of his new watch on his night table was comforting band he soon fell into a dreamless sleep, Minnie curled beside him.


    Waking up, again, was a bit weird at first.But it always was after a nap.You have the feeling it¡¯s the next day and you¡¯ve missed the whole afternoon and evening.Will had that feeling at first but the light out the port told him it was still early afternoon.Reaching around he found Minnie was up and gone already.And for some reason he could hear running steps on deck. Checking his watch! He found only an hour and a half had passed and his stomach had settled down nicely.Dressing in clean shorts and shirt he washed up quickly and climbed the stairs to the main deck.It was still a fine day and there was yells of laughter coming from the bow.Not using the walkway he strolled along the rails admiring the view but stopped quickly at the sight before him.


    Minnie was attempting to skip but had a problem.Her tail kept catching the rope on the back swing.Not every time but sometimes and that amused Naomi greatly.¡°Maybe tie it to your belt, or tuck it inside your pants.¡±, she was calling out suggestions as Minnie grew a bit irritated.They noticed him watching, ¡°Got any ideas dad.¡±, Minnie puffed out.Will shrugged, ¡°Learn to flick your tail up or down real quick or tuck it in your shorts.¡±.Naomi stuck her tongue out Minnie at the suggestion ¡°Told you so.¡±.She growled but did as they suggested and was much more successful.¡°Have you tried too!¡±, Will asked Naomi.¡°Yeah, I¡¯m pretty good, but only if I wear shorts, my sundress caught all over the place .¡±, she replied.Will looked her rope over, ¡°The handles need to come up to your chest if you stand on the rope, just a good way to measure.Yours are good but Minnie¡¯s is a bit too long.¡±.He quickly adjusted it and the first mate found it much easier and her tail wasn¡¯t struck quite so much.Still a bit but she was working on it.


    They lounged on deck for a few hours until a cool wind let them know it was time to go below.The waves had picked up a bit too so Will payed out a bit more anchor rode to make up for the increased heave.Standing at the rail looking at the dimming bulk of the shore it still sometimes hit Will.No lights, a very empty section of coast indeed.Sometimes they could make out a farmhouse, or campfire.But not tonight, just blackness.Going below was like coming home.Familiar smells, warm, sounds that just made them comfortable.A big meal was planned tonight.Mashed taters and gravy, yorkshire puddings, carrots and a large turkey already roasting in the galley.As the rest of the meal came together Will set the table in the mess for tonight, beside the three plates he had put a small folding of paper.Bringing in the different dishes they sat down.Will raised his glass of juice, ¡°Merry Christmas guys, don¡¯t forget your hat.¡±.And he opened his slip of paper and set it carefully on his head.Minnie was delighted ¡°Is this what you always did?Cause I love it, they¡¯re so silly looking.¡±.Naomi opened hers as well and wore it proudly.The turkey sat in the middle waiting to be sliced, roasted to perfection.Will had mentioned that his wife always cooked hers in a bag, that took a while to explain.Slicing the white and the dark, making sure the potatoes and yorkshires had the right amount of gravy, that the carrots were sufficiently buttered always took a few minutes.


    Several platefuls later and dinner was done.Leftovers scraped into the bucket for dumping, turkey deboned and ready for croquettes, hoping it kept well overnight.Time would tell.Cleanup never took long when it was just the three of them.Mind you, big meals like this never really happened when the gatherers were aboard, simpler fare was easier for a group.After the galley was sparkling again the full crew sat in a bit of a coma in the lounge.Not too much for Naomi, she never ate to a great extent as Minnie or Will, but she held her own tonight.A few games of old maid, and then off to bed.The next few days were travelling, Laketown was three or four days from here.It had been months since they were there and everyone was looking forward to visiting.


    Their cabin was dark and warm, the portholes were cracked open a bit for some fresh air, Will slipped in to the warm sheets, Minnie in her usual spot, ¡°Night dad, Christmas was fun, can we do it again?¡±.He laughed a bit ¡°Every year sweetheart, every year.¡±.


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 41/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 48/50


    Stamina 48/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Minnie


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Intelligence 22/25


    Strength 24/25


    Vitality 24/25


    Stamina 24/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    *The tinker skill has been upgraded*


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 38/50


    Strength 41/50


    Vitality 39/50


    Stamina 43/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose

 What鈥檚 Happening in Laketown

    Chapter 52. What¡¯s Happening in Laketown


    During the night the weather had really changed.The mildness of the last few days was replaced by unseasonal cold, even a little wet snow drifting down.In the middle of the night Will closed their porthole, just a bit too much fresh air.Then before he went back to bed, started the boiler to get the radiators warming.Minnie woke when he came back in, ¡°What did you do, it¡¯s sooo cold?¡±.She had dragged a spare blanket from the chest at the bottom of the bed and draped it over her head and shoulders.¡°Weathers changed sweetie.¡±, he checked his watch, ¡°It¡¯s pretty early still, let¡¯s sleep a while longer.¡±.He tucked back in and doused his candle.As usual the Rose rocked him back to sleep and next time he opened his eyes there was full light coming in the curtains.There was, however, a snow buildup on the port , when Minnie saw it she ¡®eeped¡¯ and hid under the covers.¡°Not again, didn¡¯t we leave that thousands of miles away?¡±.Will laughed evilly ¡°The snow monsters are coming for you, and I¡¯ll give you to them!¡±, leaping on the bed he tickled her until she got up screaming for help, ¡°Naomi he¡¯s gone mad again, help help!¡±.She managed to get to the door and began pelting Will with pillows until he fell back on the bed laughing.


    Naomi could be heard giggling outside ¡°You¡¯re on your own, dad I put the kettle on so hurry up and sacrifice Minnie to the winter spirits and come have tea.¡±.Minnie gasped and threw open the door ¡°Traitor!¡±, throwing a pillow at Naomi¡¯s feet she knocked the girl sprawling and made her escape in a mighty leap.¡°Morning, been up on deck yet?¡±, Will asked as if nothing had happened.She shook her head, ¡°Not yet but it feels cold, I¡¯m dressing warm today.¡±, she heard the kettle singing in the galley and left to start the morning meal.Will dressed quickly, he would be on deck most of the day so it was insulated pants and a long sleeve shirt to start.He could hear laughter coming down the corridor so it sounded like Minnie had forgiven Naomi for not coming to the rescue.Making the bed, gathering the laundry took a minute or two but it settled his mind, he hated an unmade bed.As he was leaving he caught sight of his new watch.An idea struck him, when he first boarded he had cleaned most of the clothes out of the cabins and stored them in barrels in a storeroom.But not all, he rooted through the large cupboard until he came upon it, a black leather vest, with a small pocket perfect for his watch.It slipped in snugly and the chain attached to the buttons.Carefully combing his moustache he waggled his eyebrows at his reflection, ¡°Looking good old guy.¡±.


    Now he was searching for tea.His thick felt slippers made no sound as he slid down the corridor but missed the mess door and ended up flattened against the stairs.¡°That was fun.¡±.Minnies head popped out of the mess to see what the clatter had been, ¡°What ya doing?¡±.This was a bit awkward but he answered truthfully ¡°Slid down the corridor, pretty slippery in slippers.¡±.There was nothing to it but her giving it a try now.Starting from their cabin she shot down the hall like a bullet and ended up like he had, in a clatter on the doors to up top.Hmm, he thought, roller skates for next Christmas.Quickly written down.¡°Don¡¯t be doing that when we have the kids aboard or it will be pure chaos down here, on deck too.We¡¯ll be fishing them out of the lake every day.¡±, Naomi scolded from the galley.Minnie looked at Will, ¡°How did she know what we were doing?¡±.He shrugged ¡°Magic.¡±. Helping her up he walked this time to the mess and sat in his regular chair.Minnie noticed what he was wearing now and really liked where he had tucked his watch.¡°It¡¯s like it was made for it, the pocket that is.¡±.¡°In our old world pockets like this were made for watches, here I don¡¯t know what was planned but this works for me.¡±, he answered.¡°I hang mine around my neck, but sometimes it comes out of my clothes and bumps up against stuff.¡±, Naomi commented from the galley.She brought out Wills tea, one for her and warmed juice for Minnie.


    They decided on porridge today, with fried ham, and toast and jam.The galley was big enough for three though, Will fried the meat, Naomi stirred the oats and Minnie did the toast.¡°Raspberry or strawberry today?¡±, Will asked, reaching up to the shelf.¡°Do we have any blueberry left, or that blackberry from Sally¡¯s place?¡±, Minnie asked as she carried in her toasted goodies.Naomi brought the porridge, nicely thickened along with a jug of cream and one of syrup as well.¡°There¡¯s a couple of jars of blueberry on the top left shelf on the starboard side, just to the right of the special tea, and one of blackberry too.¡± she called back.Will searched it out and sure enough it was right there.¡°Good memory sweetie.¡±, he said as he exited the galley with his burden of jams and ham.¡°It just comes to me if I think about it in a certain way, I¡¯m sure its part of my homemaker skill, or the management one.¡±, she explained.Minnie added ¡°Like when I look at a drawing or a blueprint I can see what it will look like and what it does.¡±.Will nodded, ¡°Those are pretty darn handy skills guys, I don¡¯t have anything of the like.¡±.Naomi burst out laughing as did Minnie.¡°You¡¯re kidding right?Dad, you know everything that happens on this boat, how everything works, how to fix it.It¡¯s a part of you.¡± Minnie answered.Well, when she put it like that¡­. ¡°You love this boat, and I¡¯m sure she loves you back.The way your carpentry work got improved on still makes my head spin a bit, so magical.¡±, Naomi sighed.


    Will skipped the ham today, just not in the mood for some reason.He enjoyed the porridge and toast though.And of course two steaming cups of strong tea, heavily sweetened.Minnie made quick work of her food, she was drawing in her notebook, that made Will smile.She had come so far so fast.Naomi was reading one of the books she had brought from home, she saw him looking and held up the title for him to see.¡°Pirates from the South?Sounds good, have you read it before?¡±, he asked.She nodded, ¡°Oh yes, one of my favourites, a wonderful love story.¡±.She went back to it.Will sat back in his chair, planning the next few days.He was really looking forward to seeing Laketown again.Not just for reconnecting with friends but he was also dying to find out if the quay building equipment was stored somewhere.A drop hammer to drive pilings was not a small thing, was it steam powered or manually controlled?On a separate barge, or connected to the Rose somehow.He supposed if they didn¡¯t find it they could construct one, the pilings for a dock needed to go deep.And the pilings, who made them, were they iron beams or wood.He had never looked really.Now he had another project.To inspect the docks at Newton and Laketown for wear, if anything needed repairing.That work could only be done while the crew was near, and by younger folk.Ah, his to do list was getting longer by the day.


    Seeing everyone had finished Naomi gathered the dishes, shooed Will and Minnie away.It was time to get steaming on their way.Wearing jackets and boots for the first time in a couple of weeks the duo went on deck.The wind had picked up a fair bit and the waves as well.And to top it off a lovely wet snow was falling.¡°Well that¡¯s just icky.¡±, Minnie griped.¡°You go ahead to the wheelhouse, get us ready to go, I¡¯ll pull the anchors.No need for us both to get wet.¡± Will said as he looked over the wet deck and the nice dry walkway.¡°Oh yay, thanks dad.¡±, and off she popped.


    It really wasn¡¯t all that bad, the good weather since they returned had spoiled the crew a bit was all.It only took a few minutes to crank up the anchors, no cleaning off this time, the bottom here was rocky not mud.He gave a thumbs up and Minnie started them on the way again.As the boats speed increased so did the waves on the bow until Will was forced to move or get several cold salt water showers.As it was his jacket was near soaked through.That got hung to dry over the radiator when he entered the wheelhouse.Boots on a drying rack too and a spare pair put back on in case he had to go back out.¡°Chilly out there?¡±, Minnie looked very warm and snug in her pilots chair, swathed in a thick quilt.¡°A little bit.¡±, he peered out the windows and looked ahead, ¡°Might gonna get worse as the day goes too.¡±.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    It sure did.An hour later a disheveled looking Naomi came up.¡°Can¡¯t do much below, too rough.¡±, but she had brought a tin of biscuits and a few slices of Minnie¡¯s favourite cake.Actually Minnies favourite cake was cake, any kind, especially when drizzled with honey.¡°Oh yum, I was just saying to dad that I sure hope my best sister brings up a snackie or two.¡±, she mumbled through a large bite.Naomi laughed ¡°I¡¯m your only sister dopey.¡±.Minnie went on though ¡°Yeah but without cake offerings on cold days your just my sister, you lose the best title.¡±.Will thought that made sense, he felt the same way about tea and biscuits, but kept that to himself.Listening to the other two going on about this and that nearly put him to sleep, nearly,but a massive wave crashed over the bow and drenched the bow, the wheelhouse and nearly half the ship.¡°Woohoo, did ya see that one dad, having fun now.¡± Minnie yelled.They were definitely having fun.Naomi just shook her head, fun.


    Because of the snow the weather never really developed into anything worse, no full out storm like the northern ones.After the boat washing wave the water subsided a bit and for the next eight hours the Rose steamed towards Laketown.No deviation from the course, these were familiar waters.Having made this trip several times now a safe harbourage was just ahead, a nice curved part of the coast.Where they could anchor up in the lee of the land in calm waters for the night.The wind would still blow and the snow would fall but the waves were calmer, and by this point anything less than three footers were just business as usual.¡°We made good time, we had a good tailwind most of the day.¡±, Will shouted to Naomi as they dropped the anchors.¡°So we¡¯ll be home tomorrow then?I mean Laketown, I¡¯m already home, you know what I mean right?¡±, she answered.The anchors dropped, port first, down it went into the dark waters and finally hit .They were already just drifting a bit, engine off and it took a couple of seconds but then the anchor held.Naomi dropped the starboard and it took a little while but it held too eventually.Will looked at the rode markings, two hundred feet down.Close as they were to shore that was quite the drop off here.¡°Be good fishing here, nice and deep.Get something like a red snapper.¡±, he remarked.¡°I¡¯ve never heard of those, are they tasty?¡±, she asked as they surveyed the shore.¡°Oh yeah, fried upor baked they¡¯re really good.¡±.By this time Minnie had joined and they all stood out of the wind on the port side.When protected like this it wasn¡¯t really that cold just a tad chilly.¡°Dads thinking of fishing for dinner, wanna give it a try?¡±, Naomi asked.¡°Aww no croquettes thingies tonight?¡±, Minnie complained.¡°I worry about getting sick, poultry can go off pretty quick and we¡¯ve no ice to keep it cool enough.¡± Will explained.Naomi nodded ¡°I¡¯ve seen that when I was young.One of my aunts, on moms side, her youngest sister and her husbands cousins , a once removed one, she cooked a big chicken dinner and one of her neighbours, they invited them all, but one of the neighbours friends had some leftovers.They got very very sick, the physicians said it was very close.¡±.Minnie just looked blank ¡°Got it, leftovers bad.¡±.


    So fish and chips it was.Will had hopes his fishing luck had changed but knew that Minnie and Naomi would pick up the slack.Snapper fishing was different than they were used to, not so much casting and reeling.But more dropping to the bottoms and jigging the hook, they were baited with leftover turkey, hopefully this won¡¯t give the fish salmonella.Will¡¯s first cast was good.And after a few minutes of jiggingon the bottom, he felt a mighty tug, he started reeling in, and felt a heavy drag on the line.In the excitement of actually catching a fish, he didn¡¯t notice that Minnie and Naomi stopped casting beside him, he reeled and reeled until the line had suddenly gone slack, sadly he pulled in a brokenline, but was encouraged to keep trying.In the meantime, while he was rebaiting his rod, he saw that Minnie had pulled in a fine fat red snapper, which was currently expiring from being pulled in from the depths so quickly, Naomi still had nothing.


    They continued fishing for another half an hour, until Naomi hauled in a fish as big as Minnie¡¯s.That and fried potatoes was a fine meal so they called it quits.Again Will had caught nothing but he knew that monster that broke his line was still down there.He was happy to clean the fish.That task only took about two minutes in his experienced hands.Saving the innards in the chum bucket at the stern.You never know when you might need a handful of well aged guts.Naomi and Minnie had stowed the rods and nets and gone below.


    As he turned back to the stairs to go below for the night a faint rumble made him stop a moment.The waters at the stern were bubbling and as he watched a monstrous log surfaced in an explosion of water and mud.As it spun in its own turbulence a rough end clipped their rudder and left it hanging in a mass of broken wood and metal.Just like that they were dead in the water.The Rose had rocked violently at the blow and Minnie and Naomi rushed on deck.Minnie took in the damage to the boat and the now docile log floating nearby.¡°Who did you tick off for that to happen?¡±, she growled.Naomi had gasped at the sight ¡°That must have been what you caught earlier, it just took time to break loose.¡±.Will could see the rudder was slipping free and about to drop down into the depths, unrecoverable.¡°Minnie grab a line!¡±, and he threw his jacket off and dived off the stern into the cold water.When he surfaced he heard a second splash as Naomi also jumped in.¡°Gotta hold onto it and tie it off, don¡¯t want to lose it.¡±.With Will on one side and Naomi on the other they held the rudder in place until Minnie dropped a rope down and they managed to tie it off.Minnie hauled it up easily and placed it to one side, then dropped into the water with the other two.¡°Aaaahhhhhh it¡¯s cold!¡±, she screamed when she surfaced.¡°Why did you jump in for, of course it¡¯s cold¡±, Naomi asked, teeth chattering.¡°I figured if you guys were wet I should be too, only fair.¡±, Min answered, stroking around the side to a rope ladder.Before Will followed her and Naomi he surveyed the damage.The hull was okay, the linkage too.But the fittings had been ripped out of the tough wood, they were gone.¡°I need some rags to seal the holes Naomi, Minnie can you go into steerage and pull those chains in?¡±, he asked, starting to feel the cold leeching in.


    In a few moment Naomi dropped a bucket of rags and then he could see the chains being drawn in.He stuffed rags in the openings as hard as he could until it was packed in like stone.Another check of the area showed no other damage so he joined the others on deck, after swimming over to the ladder.¡°That¡¯s some bad news right there, good thing we¡¯re close, have to steer with a hand tiller tomorrow.¡± Will sighed.¡°We¡¯re only a day away right?¡± Naomi asked.¡°Early start, but yeah, we¡¯ll be there around dinner.¡±, Minnie replied.


    And in Laketown


    ¡°You know brother, they¡¯re going to be here in a day or two and we¡¯ll all be together again.¡±,the voice paused as if listening.¡°I know HE didn¡¯t want to come, but now HE¡¯S the only one there.¡±.As they talked and walked around the lair glistened as if brand new, all the tools on the wall had been cleaned or sharpened, in some cases both.The tool and storage cabinets had been inventoried and sorted, ready for work.It was still very dim but that didn¡¯t seem to bother the two occupants who had worked tirelessly to make it home.At first the constant splashing of water had been terrifying, now they were lulled to sleep.Even if a storm raged over the waters it didn¡¯t reach their cosy nest.The townsfolk were still leaving offerings even if they didn¡¯t know who was the needy ones, and that was just fine with these two.If they were honest with themselves they had never eaten this well, even if the charity dried up the stockroom was full and could last many days.Hopefully it wouldn¡¯t be needed but it gave the duo peace of mind.


    Sleeping early at night, sleeping in the next morning was their usual routine and today was no different.Lazing around all day, eating a bit here or there and soon it was afternoon nap time. It seemed only a few minutes until both were startled awake by a screaming sound, far off but coming steadily closer.¡°Are you awake, of course you are.They¡¯re here, they¡¯re here, what are we going to say, what are we going to do, how will mmmmph.¡±.A hand had been placed over the speakers mouth, ¡°It will be fine.¡±, the voice was scratchy and rough, unused almost.¡°Brother, you spoke!Did it hurt, it¡¯s been so long since I heard you.I know I talk enough for both, but still.¡±.The shriek was very close now along with a rhythmic chuffing that suddenly stopped.


    ¡°Dad I tell you that log came at us like it was aimed, we¡¯ve never encountered that before, someone¡¯s got it out for us.¡±, a high pitched voice was chattering on outside the door.Then a much deeper voice answered, a familiar voice, ¡°Dunno how Minnie, that was a big log.Now if sea serpents are throwing logs at us it might be time to retire.¡±, such a cheery voice.You could hear the smile.There were footsteps on the walkway and the door slid open.


    Gathering his courage the small figure stepped forward to greet the newcomers.¡°Hello father.¡±.

 Family Fun Times Two

    Chapter 53.Family Fun Times Two


    The previous day


    Getting back to Laketown in a crippled ship had taken a good twelve hours.The speed was the same but steering a 25 meter ship with a hand tiller was not easy.The crew took turns but it was mostly Will holding the twenty foot oar in the water and holding the ship on course.Minnie and Naomi had the strength but they had other duties.Minnie was constantly checking the course and shouting out corrections.Naomi spelled them both over the day, for head breaks and so on.If this had happened in stormy weather,Naomi asked what they would have done.¡°Stay anchored in that little bay probably, wait the weather out.Try to repair it on site, we could do it, we still could but it¡¯s a big job out here.We¡¯ve done it before at the dock in Laketown.¡±, Will answered.She looked down at the icy water speeding by and shivered.He laughed, ¡°Me too, the docks nice and covered, not as deep and the bottoms sandy there, in case we drop anything.¡±.She handed him his tea mug, nice and hot.She checked her watch, ¡°I love this, how did we get on without?¡±.Will shrugged ¡°When I first got here my watch stopped working in a day, I got used to eyeballing the sun and guessing.But I sure missed knowing.¡±.She looked at him curiously ¡°Why didn¡¯t you just wind it, I do mine every other morning.¡±.Hmm, he thought, this will be fun.¡°My watch, wasn¡¯t what you and I have now, it was part of my smartphone¡­.An hour later a thoroughly confused Naomi still couldn¡¯t wrap her head around what a app was.And the idea of being in constant contact was awful, ¡°But how can you miss someone if they never leave you alone?¡±, she asked.Will had thought that himself many times, ¡°Just a different world sweetie, remember that map I made, of how big things were compared to here.¡±.¡°I hope that never happens here, in my lifetime anyway, I like the way things are.¡±, she stated and went below to make bread for dinner.


    Minnie yelled out from the wheelhouse ¡°Starboard for a bit¡­good hold it, okay straighten out.¡±.She bobbed back inside then came out to visit for a bit, wheel tied in place.¡°Hey, doing all right?¡±, she asked.Will nodded ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty easy actually. Maybe we won¡¯t bother to repair and just steer like this now.¡±.She just glared for a second the laughed ¡°Nah, you like sitting and drinking tea while steering.¡±.He held up his mug and took a sip.A worried look came over her face ¡°Really?¡±.¡°Nope, too cold out here.¡±, and he rewrapped his long jacket tighter.


    It was a long day but eventually the familiar sights came in view.Minnie was blasting out the whistle and it looked as though the entire population of Laketown was gathering at the quay.Minnie slowed the boat and Naomi skipped off the deck, to let everyone know they were back, a bit broken but everyone was okay.The Rose continued off to the covered dock.It wasn¡¯t far and the Rose was tied up outside while Will and Minnie went inside to open up the main doors.Minnie was talking about the log that damaged them, she was convinced it wasn¡¯t an accident.Opening the doors Will stopped dead, Minnie walked into him with an ¡®oof¡¯ and heard ¡°Hello father.¡±.


    Minnie peeked around dad¡¯s immobile figure, to see a small person, no, two small persons.The closest was staring up at Will with a very determined look on his, her, it¡¯s face.A face covered with long orange fur reminiscent of how Minnie had looked while transitioning into her now mostly human form.They were both quite short, just under three feet.Wearing identical blue shorts and white shirts.Long tails were waving behind them, twitching sharply, they seemed nervous.Seeing Will was a bit stunned, just looking down at the two people, Minnie took a step around him.¡°So who are you guys¡­wait a minute, don¡¯t I know you from somewhere?¡±, she asked the closest one.He, and it was a he, sighed ¡°We used to live together, you were different, just like we were different.Mother left, then we went to live with that person when you and father went away too.We didn¡¯t like it, so we left and followed you.It took a long time but we found where you were.Then he came to us and asked if we wanted to meet you.He was nice, said he¡¯d met you a few times, but you wouldn¡¯t remember yet.¡±.


    Will shook his head at the impossibility standing in front of him.He knelt down to face them at their level.Getting close he could see the familiar details, one had a round face the other more pointed and defined.Both of a like height but one was a bit more rotund.Same soft orange fur he remembered.He reached out and out his hand tentatively on the small shoulder ¡°Is that you Percy, and you too Ron?Are you real?¡±.The little person, Percy apparently, had been trying to stay calmbut at the touch of Wills gentle hand he broke down into tears, ¡°Why did you leave us, mother left and Minnie left with you and we never saw you again!Why?¡±.The other figure came forward and held his brother¡¯s hand, ¡°Let him talk¡±, the rough voice growled out.¡°And another thing,¡±, Percy continued, ¡°He got hurt,¡±, pointing at his brother, ¡°And now he can hardly talk without it hurting, a big scary went after us and he fought, I ran but he saved us.¡±.Running out of breath he looked at Will.Sighing Will sat on the wooden board floor, as he did he noticed how sparkling the place was, another time he thought.¡°I didn¡¯t plan to leave, to leave you guys forever, mom loved you so.I was trying to get back into living and bought that boat.When it broke down¡­are you understanding all this, how long have you been like this?¡±, he gestured vaguely at them.¡°We understand, we started changing as soon as he brought us through, usually when sleeping, go on.¡±, Percy answered.


    ¡°So I bought a trailer and parked it at the campground we always went to, then a boat.But it broke down and Minnie and I were walking back to the camp.I think I was dying , yeah, I¡¯m pretty sure I was passing away under a tree, Minnie stayed with me.¡±.Minnie snorted beside him ¡°Like I¡¯d leave you.¡±.Percy leaned over and sniffed her, ¡°You look different but I know it¡¯s you.¡±.Ron finally scooted closer and did the same thing, it seemed to comfort him and he sat close to Minnie¡¯s side.She looked down at him with a smile, ¡°I remember you a little, we played.¡±.Will went on, ¡°We met up with this little guy called Elaith.He gave us a choice to stay behind and take our chances or come to this world, I chose here.¡±.He looked down into Percy¡¯s earnest golden eyes, ¡°I thought you were all taken care of, happy at our daughters.¡±.¡°It was fine there, lots of food, she was nice but we wanted you.¡±, Percy said sadly.Will looked around, ¡°Where¡¯s the other guy, is he here too?¡±.This time Ron answered ¡°No, he stayed.¡±.


    There was a flurry of footsteps outside and Naomi came rushing in, ¡°Stephen and the others are so happy we¡¯re back¡­oh my, what is this?You¡¯re so cute and fuzzy, come here and let me squish you!¡±.She knelt down in front of the two new people and opened her arms.¡°Watch out sis, they talk.¡±, Minnie laughed.Percy had taken a couple of steps back and Ron jumped in front of him, ¡°Don¡¯t touch my brother!¡±.Naomi fell backwards with a squawk, ¡°They sure do, where did you find these guys?¡±.Will sighed, ¡°Hard to believe but these are our pets, our companions, mine and my wife¡¯s cats from our other world.They were telling us¡­¡±, he trailed off.Minnie took over, ¡°The same guy who brought us here, that tiny guy, they said he brought them too.¡±.¡°Oh, um okay, sorry I¡¯m just trying to catch up, so now what?¡±, Naomi asked, ¡°Are you staying with us?¡±.Percy looked at Will, ¡°Are we, our home here is warm and comfy if you don¡¯t want us?¡±.¡°This is theirs too Percy, if they say no, we have to leave.¡±, Ron rasped, holding his neck, it seemed to hurt more as he talked more.¡°Of course you can stay, right dad?¡± Minnie started, ¡°We know them and they¡¯ve changed like I did, so the lake won¡¯t eat them, I hope anyways, but we still have those spare cabins across from the lounge, not too big, but neither are they,¡± she went on ignoring the glares from the boys, ¡° Maybe they can help around the boat too, lots of stuff to do.¡±, she ran down, patting Percy on his head, ignoring that glare too.Will had been sitting on the floor still, just looking at the two lads.Then standing up, shaking his clothes straight he looked down at the two.¡°Yes, you boys are welcome aboard, you¡¯re family.I didn¡¯t know you¡¯d be coming but it¡¯s wonderful that you are.¡±.He stepped forward and knelt again, in front of the two nervous fellows.Opening his arms and waited, the two looked at each other and then hurled themselves into his arms.¡°I knew you wouldn¡¯t make us leave, I missed you and her so much, we¡¯ll stay forever with you.¡± Percy said as he buried his face in Wills shoulder.Ron didn¡¯t say anything but he did start to give out a rumbling purr.


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Minnie was never one to miss out on hugs so she jumped in too, then Naomi as well.¡°I don¡¯t know you both but welcome, you¡¯re gonna love it here.¡±.¡°Well,¡± laughed Minnie ¡°As long as you like fish, oh and don¡¯t mind getting wet.¡±.The orange duo looked horrified at that.¡°What do you mean getting wet?¡±, Percy asked.¡°Well we do live and work on a boat, most of the time we¡¯re at sea,it right now our boat is broke and we have to bring it in here to fix it.¡±, Will said, pointing to the big doors at the end of the dock.¡°Oh, I wondered what they were for, they¡¯re sure big, when are you bringing it in?¡±, Percy was peering at the doors.¡°Umm right now?Then we¡¯ll relax overnight, you two can pick a room, have dinner, then we¡¯ll talk about everything.¡± Will answered.He was a bit rattled at these events and was sure going to have some sleepless nights over this, but the past months had given him a different perspective.Just roll on with it.


    Minnie and Naomi went back outside and Will started lifting the huge bars that kept the doors tight, there was a winch system so it was quite easy to crank first one up, then the other and then push the right door full open, rush around to the other side and repeat with the left.The stern of the Rose was only a few yards away and Naomi and Minnie waited til Will was ready and hurled two ropes to him.At the far end of the dock were enormous bollards and, passing a couple of loops around them, Will started hauling the Rose into dock.¡°Oh my, that¡¯s big, very big, I didn¡¯t realize what a boat was really,there¡¯s none here, but yes that¡¯s big one.¡±, Percy was saying.He and Ron were perched on a workbench beside Will as he pulled on the tow line.Minnie waited until the first few feet were in then jumped to the dock and took one rope and started hauling away.A few minutes later most of the boat was inside, just a few feet of the bow stuck out.¡°We¡¯re gonna leave more clearance at the stern, need to build a rudder and fit it.We had a bit of an an accident .¡±, explained Will.¡°Yeah,¡±, Minnie called over ¡°A sea serpent threw a log at us!¡±.Percy gasped.¡°Did not Minnie.¡±, Naomi called from the Rose, ¡°Dad did it by fishing up that log.¡±.Gee thanks, Will thought, that¡¯s so much better.


    Rose safely tied up, it was a relief after the last couple of days.Safe and snug for the next few nights.Minnie had pulled the stairs down on the rail and led Percy and Ron aboard.As they were walking along the deck beside Minnie, who was pointing out all the wonders, he could really see how small they were.Minnie was not a tall person but she was head and shoulders over the two boys, one on each side holding her hands.It was amazing how they had made it here, to this world and then to Laketown.The coming evenings meal was going to be interesting.But first ¡°Hey guys, I gotta go see some people, want me to bring back dinner or want to cook tonight?¡±, he asked.¡°What¡¯s that thing again, when you go out and get it?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Take out¡±, Will said with a smile.¡°Let¡¯s do that then, go get take out,¡±, Naomi added, ¡°I loved saying that.¡±.Giving a wave Will left the dock and headed to town.


    As he walked the familiar path to town he saw several people coming towards him, Stephen, Regina, Boris, and an older man he didn¡¯t recognize. ¡°Captain, Will, you¡¯re back, thank goodness your all safe.¡±, it was nice to see friends and for just a few minutes it was hand shakes and hugs.They had been gone for a few months and there was lots to talk about.Continuing to town they of course stopped at the tavern where Will sat by the fire with a sigh of contentment.Regina slipped behind the bar and made a pot of tea quickly, while she did so Stephen introduced Lorenzo, as the last councilman.Will nodded politely.Regina brought his tea over and, with a nod, he took a sip, ¡°So, what¡¯s new?¡±.


    Back on the boat


    ¡°Is it fun living here, while it¡¯s on the water?¡±, Percy asked.Minnie laughed ¡°That¡¯s what we do, we take youngsters to get stuff, we travel and explore.You¡¯ll love it, especially when Naomi flings fish goo in your fur.¡±.They were sitting in the mess having a snack, biscuits and cheese.¡°So what do I call you,¡± asked Naomi, ¡°do you like short names or your full name, dad likes Will but his full name is William.¡±.That made the little guy think, he absently dunked his biscuit in his warmed apple juice.¡°Percy is fine, my full names Percival, and brothers is Ronald, but he likes Ron.¡±.¡°Okay.¡±, she nodded.They had given the brothers a full tour of the boat and they had been fascinated by everything.There were so many places to see, store rooms and holds, the engine and boiler room, the Rose was a wonder.Minnie had also showed them the two empty cabins and the two had been quite overcome when she said they could pick one to share or one each.¡°Can we wait til fathers back, it¡¯s a big decision for us.We were living in the dock for weeks.¡±. Minnie patted his shoulder ¡°Of course, there¡¯s no hurry.¡±.As they had been talking the kettle had boiled and Naomi made a pot of tea, Ron noticed and gestured to see if he could try a cup.Naomi poured him a small cup with one sugar, he sniffed it and took a sip.Minnies face was in awe as she watched him drink the horrible weed water and, even worse, enjoy it.¡°Do you, how could you like it, it¡¯s awful , dad likes it, Naomi what did you do?¡±.Ron looked at her ¡°That really made my throat feel better.¡±, he said in a very different voice, the rasp was mostly gone.¡°The power of tea has fixed him¡­haha Minnie.¡±, Naomi laughed.¡°Blah¡±, Minnie said disgustedly, ¡°I¡¯m going to meet dad.¡±.


    As she walked the path to the village she could hear dad coming near to her.He was singing a bit and when he got nearer and was at the part ¡®What do you do with a drunken sailor¡¯, she leaped out of the bushes, tackled him and joined in ¡°Shave his belly with a rusty razor!¡±.Will gave a manly scream as he was knocked to the ground.¡°Oh you little monster, I think it¡¯s dunking time for you my pretty¡±.Minnie darted back to the dock, Will tight on her heels, she was screaming for help, Naomi ran on deck to see what was going on, accompanied by Percy and Ron.They were amazed to see Minnie running around the deck followed by a laughing Will.She was yelling ¡°Parlay, parlay¡±. Jumping from boat to dock and back again with no effort, at one point she launched from the bow to the stern.Unfortunately for her Will had anticipated and leaped up, snatched her in mid air and landed in a tumble.¡°Are they really fighting?¡±, Percy asked nervously. Naomi shook her head, ¡°No, this is pretty normal, I don¡¯t know what Minnie¡¯s done but it was probably pretty funny.¡±.¡°Oh it was¡±, Minnie managed to squeak out, Will had a good grip and had edged closer to the bow, ¡°Dunking time!¡±.And he jumped in, holding the laughing Minnie.A mighty splash showed he had his revenge.Naomi went to the side and helped the dripping duo up the stairs.¡°You screamed like a little one dad.¡± Minnie said and gave a shake and shared lake water with everyone.


    Percy shrieked in indignation and sprang to the roof of the walkway, glaring down at her.Ron just preened his wet fur back, ¡°Feels nice, smells good to.¡±, he rasped out.¡°That¡¯s the way.¡±, Minnie smiled at him.Will was on deck too, looking at his little family as he towelled water off.A thought struck him, he pulled his watch out of his vest pocket and was amazed if was still ticking away.¡°I thought I ruined it, in the water.¡±, he gasped.Minnie laughed ¡°Nah, I used tree sap, hardened it and worked it around all the edges and the windings.I knew we¡¯d be wet so, yeah, it¡¯s fine.But I¡¯ll check them over later too.¡±.Ron had come over to see what they were looking at and had been instantly fascinated.¡°What¡¯s it for?¡± he asked.Minnie started telling him the concept of time, how this let them know how long to do something, when to quit and so on.Naomi tuned them out and asked Will how the meeting went.


    Will finished off drying with a head polish, ¡°It was just a quick one, hey we¡¯re back, still in one piece.We¡¯re going to have a big dinner tomorrow, barbecue some ribs and steaks, they had some excitement too.¡±.That intrigued Naomi, ¡°Excitement?Here?Only time that happens is when the Rose is around, otherwise the only fun is watching the apples grow.¡±.Will didn¡¯t think that was much fun, but each to their own.¡°For the past couple of months some stuff went missing, they figured someone was in trouble and started leaving things for them.Food, clothes, things like that.Never saw them but one time.Lorenzo swears he saw an orange demon climbing the walls with a cheese in its mouth.¡±.Turning to look at Percy, who had climbed down off the roof, ¡°You guys I assume.¡±.¡°We had to, we were starving and the bakery is so nice.They leave us cheese buns and cakes, the cheese place gives us so good cheese, and the tavern¡­the sausages are lovely.¡±, he said plaintively.Will held up a hand, ¡°They¡¯re not angry, at first a bit maybe.But then they were worried someone was in need and started helping more.Everyone wants to meet you and see if you need anything else.¡±.Will had one more thing to ask, he had just remembered something the boys said, ¡°You said something earlier, when he brought you through, who¡¯s he?¡±.

 Dinner With Family

    Chapter 54Dinner With Family


    ¡°Oh drat it, I dropped dinner when Minnie attacked me, there¡¯s meat pies, baked taters and boiled peas.I¡¯ll be right back.¡± ,Will said.¡°I¡¯ll come too dad.¡±, said Minnie.¡°May I come too, I feel a bit sick on the water..¡±, Percy asked.¡°Oh oh, we live on the water little guy, you gonna be okay?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°I¡¯ll get used to it.¡±, he sighed.Will was in the front as they went back along the now dim path, there the bag was, stood upright thank goodness, dinner.It hadn¡¯t been all that long, the weather was still mostly mild.Minnie retrieved the large sack, sniffed the contents, and grinned ¡°Yum.¡±.


    As they headed back Percy asked Minnie how she grew so big.¡°Dad said it happened while we slept, those first few days aboard the Rose.She¡¯s magic you know.¡±, she told him.¡°We changed while we stayed in the dock, there must be magic there too.I woke up one day and was like this, Ron too, I¡¯d like to be taller though.¡±, Percy said, his stomach suddenly rumbled.¡°Me too, pretty busy day and I¡¯m kinda starving.¡±, Will added.¡°Be busy tomorrow too, fixing and preparing for the littles to come on board in a few days.¡±, Minnie added.They had reached the dock, Naomi had lighted a lantern outside and the light pooled around it.She and Ron were sitting on the edge waiting for the others.¡°What do you mean littles coming?¡±, Percy asked as they boarded the boat and headed down.¡°Well, that¡¯s a bit of a story.¡±, Will answered, ¡°Let¡¯s get dinner on the go and we¡¯ll talk as we eat.¡±.


    Opening the bag found the various packets that Will had mentioned, three large meat pies, two beef, one chicken.Several baked potatoes wrapped in cloths to keep warm, a large crock of peas in butter and two fresh loaves.For a few minutes it was serving out, pass the salt, I need butter, now I need more butter and so on.But finally everyone was happily eating.Will described their life to the boys.How they went from town to town and helped gather the supplies that were needed.The coal runs for both towns, gathering the different ores, copper and iron.Fishing for the sharps and the floaters, so easy to catch and so tasty.Sometimes gathering huge amounts of the mats of weed that grew on the lake surface.Minnie told of the barges that they towed across the lake, how dangerous that was but so much easier.Will mentioned that Laketown had asked for a logging run and they had built two big barges ready to fill, then a coal trip too.¡°We¡¯re going to be busy for a while aren¡¯t we?¡±, Naomi said with a sigh.¡°Yeah, no southern trip yet.¡±, Will replied.


    The two lads were looking a bit overwhelmed at all the stories but had managed to eat their share.Ron had started to doze leaning against Naomis arm.She, of course, held him close so he wouldn¡¯t fall over.Percy was still awake but had tired eyes.Will got Minnie¡¯s attention and waved to the mess door.When they were there he asked Minnie to go to their cabin. Closing the door, ¡°So before I offer those guys a room each, I want to check with you.We only have two spare cabins, do you want your own room, or stay with me still?¡±.She sat on the big bed with a sigh, ¡°I¡¯ve thought about it, I really have.To have my own space, my stuff, my clothes, it would be nice sometimes.But in here.¡±, she tapped her chest, ¡°I¡¯m still part of you, that little doggo mom handed to you.I don¡¯t remember that day, but somehow I do, does that make sense?¡±.She pointed around the room ¡°This is our stuff, just like the memory of that first day on the Rose is ours.It was just you and me.It¡¯s hard for me to imagine being anywhere else.¡±.Will nodded, ¡°One day Naomi might leave us, if she finds someone.They could stay on of course but the people here are different.The fear of the water is deep in their minds.¡±.¡°We¡¯ve talked of that, Naomi and me, when we have a sleepover.Sometimes she¡¯s lonely and thinks of children, hers.But then she¡¯s sad at the thought of leaving us.¡± Minnie said.Will sighed, he saw that coming when she joined and bonded with the Rose.Someday she would leave.¡°How will it work, we¡¯re going to live so long, her too, what about her littles and her partner?They won¡¯t.¡±, Minnie asked.


    Will didn¡¯t know the answers.There was no handbook to being an immortal, no guide for being different.These questions could only be answered by time, and by then it might be too late for some things.¡°I need a cuppa.¡±, he muttered.¡°Oh I forgot to tell you, that weirdo Ron likes tea.¡±, Minnie laughed.¡°I knew I liked him better.¡±, said Will with a snort.And was promptly smacked with a pillow, nearly knocking him off the bed.¡°Jerk.¡± was the response from Minnie.¡°We¡¯ve gone too deep, getting off the question.My feeling is this, if you choose to stay I¡¯ll love it, hearing you breathe helps me sleep, I worry when I don¡¯t know where you are, what you¡¯re doing. But I think I¡¯m holding on too tight, smothering you, stopping you from growing.¡±.Minnie looked sad, ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±.Will agreed, he didn¡¯t know either.Minnie was unique, there was a special bond between a person and their dog to begin with.That bond had only been intensified when arriving here and both of them had started changing.Him younger and younger as they days and weeks went on, new abilities and talents.Her the same, becoming physically different but retaining many of the qualities and characteristics of her simple beginnings as a dog.Unwavering loyalty, constant good humour, hard worker, playful and untidy.


    ¡°Sweetie, I have to be honest.I would get used to you not being beside me, but I don¡¯t want to.It¡¯s you and me first, against everything that life throws at us, okay.¡±, Will said.At those words Minnie hugged him, pretty darned hard too.He could feel his ribs creaking a bit, ¡°Me too dad, I¡¯m staying, forever.¡±.And that was that.After a bit of face wiping they went back into the mess hall.Naomi looked at them knowingly, Minnie went to sit beside her and nodded.Will could see the two little fellows were about tapped out so he asked ¡°Do you guys want to figure out a bedroom for tonight, there¡¯s a couple open.Percy nodded so they went to have a look.The rooms were identical, fairly small and cosy, a porthole in the middle of the outer wall.Radiators to provide heat lined the shared walls, only drawback was no head in this one.For some odd reason Naomi¡¯s was the only one with facilities.While everyone was inspecting and commenting on which was nicer, Will had a look at the temporary crew quarters.There were two bigger rooms side by side across from the mess and the crew lounge.He was calculating if he could give the lads one of these rooms, much better to have facilities.The crew room could have one more bunk set up, perhaps two.Then use the smaller room for a crew recreation room, for the teens to lay about in, relax and so on.The only concern was the girls and boys together, yeah that wouldn¡¯t work.Maybe a small room and the larger, and a shared head.


    Returning to where the rest were he found no decision had been made.Percy and Ron didn¡¯t seem to care and were happy just to have a spot to sleep but only as long as they stayed together..¡°Could we install a head, toilet and sink anyway.The only one with a shower bath is the main cabin anyway.Everyone else uses the bathing room downstairs, and I like a bath more than a shower.¡±, Minnie said.Why not, thought Will, plumbings easy enough and the toilet could just empty to a tank, then be flushed to the lake.¡°Yes we could do that, if you guys are okay in this one closer to Minnie and I, Naomi across the corridor.Or a little further down a ways across from the lounge.¡± Will agreed.Ron looked around at the cosy room, easily big enough for a set of bunks, or two single beds, he nodded at Percy.¡°We like this one, closer to you all.¡±, he said, ¡°But this is a lot of space for us, we were sleeping in a cupboard before.¡±.¡°Well,¡±, said Naomi, ¡°Your not wizards, at least not yet so you have a bedroom here.¡±.The boys looked at each other and shrugged, no idea, but a bedroom sounded just fine.¡°Clear the way!¡±, came a call from the doorway as Minnie carried in a large wardrobe that had been stored in the crew quarters for now.The she went back and brought in one of the spare beds, ¡°Until we get you new ones tomorrow you can sleep well tonight.Naomi got busy and made the bed up with fresh sheets and quilts.Will went below and brought up one of the barrels of unused clothing.¡°There might be something in here for you, and we¡¯ll pick up new clothes tomorrow in the village.¡±, he said setting it down gently.The room had gone from empty to nearly fitted out in just a few minutes.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Do you need anythingfrom the docks for tonight, otherwise I¡¯m going to check on deck then close us up for the night.¡±, Will said.¡°I¡¯m going to put the kettle on, maybe heat some milk up, with honey in it.Minnie loves it, you might too, or have tea.¡±, Naomi said standing after tidying up and headed to the galley.Ron went with her, he had woken up a bit and was fascinated with the galley.He was poking around through all the cupboards, pointing at times to see what it was or how it worked.Percy tagged along with Will and Minnie to pick up some things from their lair.


    Will finally got a good look at the dock and what a difference had been made.Every work surface, every tool and supply storage had been cleaned and tidied and there were quite a few crates neatly stored to one side.¡°Broken stuff.¡±, Minnie said after investigating.Percy nodded ¡°We found lots of stuff like that, just kept for no reason.Was it all you?¡±.Will laughed ¡°Oh no, that¡¯s hundreds of years worth.We tidied a bit a few months ago, looking for something but didn¡¯t do anything like this, you guys worked hard.¡±.The little guy shrugged ¡°Nothing else to do, and it bothered me that things were messy.¡±.He opened the cupboard they had been sleeping in, pulled out a few blankets and two large pillows.Then a bag of food, ¡°That¡¯s all we have.¡±.Will looked down as his newest family member,¡°My man, my dear little man, we are going to spoil you and Ron so much.When we go shopping tomorrow we¡¯ll have to take two shopping carts for everything we¡¯re going to buy.¡±.Minnie laughed ¡°Oh yeah we will.¡±.


    No anchors to check on, no worries about waves or sea monsters, the good strong roof above would protect them all tonight.It was a bit chilly so when they went below Will lighted the boiler, just enough to warm the radiators.He found everyone in the lounge when he came back up from the lower deck.Drinking tea with biscuits, well mostly everyone was, Minnie was explaining how awful it was.Ron was nodding while drinking a nice full cuppa, making sure Minnie saw every sip.Percy didn¡¯t care for it much, preferring the warm milk with honey.The radiators had warmed the room nicely and the smell of the fresh shortbread was wonderful.Two more easy chairs had been brought up from the storeroom but Will was determined to buy new tomorrow.Now that the Christmas tree had been taken down there was more room and the chairs had been arranged in a circle, table in the centre.The hour wasn¡¯t all that late but it had been, to say the least, a busy day. Naomi had drifted off, Minnie was a bit glassy eyed and Percy and Ron were snoring in the chairs.¡°What a thrilling bunch.¡±, he sighed and started waking and shooing off to bed.


    Naomi stumbled off with a ¡°Night dad.¡±.Will gently shook first Percy¡¯s shoulder and then Ron¡¯s and guided them to their room.He sat between the two sleepy fellows, ¡°I¡¯m still not sure how you guys got here, but I¡¯m glad you are.You¡¯re safe with us now, this is your home now.If you need anything you don¡¯t have to ask, whatever I have is yours now.Just don¡¯t go in the boiler room, it¡¯s dangerous okay?¡±.He got a tight hug from both of them.Minnie was standing in the doorway, ¡°Night fellas, I¡¯m so happy to see you again.¡±.Will shut their door, rested against the wall for a minute.¡°You okay dad?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°To be honest, not really.It¡¯s been an odd day, Will probably be an odd week and I¡¯m okay with that but it¡¯s a lot.Just wondering if Elaith has any other surprises in store.¡±, he answered.¡°Let¡¯s sit on deck, drink tea and look at the stars for a while.¡±, Minnie said, taking his hand.He looked at his little companion in amazement ¡°That sounds good, I¡¯m glad you¡¯re finally coming to like tea.¡±.She looked at him ¡°Are you nuts, it¡¯s still yucky, I¡¯m gonna have some more milk with honey, now that¡¯s a nice drink.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Don¡¯t ever change sweetie.¡±.


    Will blinked awake the next morning.Reaching out he only found a cold spot where Minnie had been all night.Now that he was more aware he could hear happy laughter coming through his cabin door and the enticing smell of bacon.Wondering what that was about he quickly dressed and went to investigate.Entering the galley he was delighted to see that some magic had been worked overnight.The boys had changed after arriving in this world, then more while living in the dock, but one night on the Rose had brought more.In one case that is.It seemed Ron had grown a bit overnight and was now head and shoulders over Percy, who looked quite disgruntled.¡°It¡¯s just not fair Minnie.¡±, he was complaining, ¡°He¡¯s nearly as tall as you and I¡¯m still tiny.¡±.¡°Well, ¡°, Naomi added, ¡°From what dad told me it took Minnie a few days to change to what she is now, and sometimes she still grows a bit taller.¡±.Minnie nodded, mouth full of bacon.The tiny fellow sighed then brightened seeing Will.¡°Good morning father, did you see?¡±, he pointed at his brother.Ron stood and showed off his new height, still not too tall but much more than he had been.And as Will just noticed, was wearing much different clothes than before.Their voices had changed a little as well, words were a bit clearer and the feline muzzles had shrunk a bit.¡°Wow, I thought there might be changes, look at you go Ronnie, you too Percy.¡±, he remarked pouring a cup of tea.Naomi stood and went in the galley and brought him out a covered plate, whipping off the top revealing a full breakfast.Will picked up the plate and gave an appreciative sniff.¡°Ah that¡¯s just the ticket, only thing missing is black pudding.¡±.Starting to eat he noticed Minnie looking over, ¡°Yes sweetie?¡±.¡°Gotta know, what¡¯s black pudding?¡±.¡°Certain type of sausage made of oats, herbs and pig blood, sliced thick and fried.¡±.He continued eating for a moment, savouring the crispy potatoes until he noticed it was quiet.Four pairs of eyes were looking at him, ¡°Sausage made of blood, and you like it, ick.¡±, Minnie said for all of them.Shrugging Will continued on ¡°I like it, nearly as good as haggis.¡±.This time Naomi asked ¡°What¡¯s that then?¡±.He waited until he saw Minnie take a bite of bacon, ¡°A sheep¡¯s stomach stuffed with meat and barley then roasted.¡±.¡°Oh yuck dad, you did that on purpose.¡±, she accused him.He nodded ¡°Sure did.¡±.


    After everyone had eaten their fill it was time to plan their day.Will and Minnie planned to clear the remains of the old rudder, start to refit the damaged one.And do a full hull survey.¡°Going to be a wet day.¡±, Minnie sighed.Naomi laughed at her ¡°That¡¯s what you get for being handy, I¡¯m just the pretty one.¡±.Minnie gasped in shock and horror, then laughed ¡°Oh right, where¡¯s your silky long ears, your shiny face fur hmmm?I mean your head hair is very pretty.¡±.Naomi smiled ¡°Thanks Min.¡±, at least until Minnie sneaked behind her and thoroughly messed her carefully fixed hair. A scream like a leaking boiler echoed in the mess and Minnie ran for her life.Percy looked worried and asked ¡°Are they okay?¡±.Will snorted ¡°This happens at least once a week, just what they do.¡±.There was a rush of scampering feet on the deck above them, a high pitched shriek then nothing.¡°Let¡¯s go see Ron,¡± , Percy urged his brother.Will decided to tag along, he needed to go up on deck anyway.The three made their way up to find a dripping wet Minnie and an equally wet Naomi.¡°Hi pop.¡±, Minnie looked up from chatting with the other girl.Will laughed ¡°Told you so.¡±, he said to the little boys.


    Everyone had their plans for the day.Naomi was measuring the crew bunks for the final size of the sleeping bags, then in the afternoon heading into town to the seamstress.Minnie and Will were about to start on the rudder repair, that was going to be a two day job at least.Ron had asked Naomi if he could tag along with her while she went about her day.¡°I just feel more comfortable belowdeck right now¡±, he said in a hoarse whisper.The tea really did help his throat, and Naomi was going to try float weed compresses on the scars on his neck.Percy on the other hand was fascinated by the workings of the boat and volunteered to help with the repair.¡°You might get wet you know, not on purpose but it could.¡±, Will minded him gently.Minnie held her hand up, ¡°Not from me, dad might cause he¡¯s a monster.¡±.Percy laughed, a little nervously. What had he got himself in to?

 Living the Dream, in Laketown

    Chapter 55. Living the Dream, in Laketown


    Two hours later, as measured by his brand new watch, Will and Minnie were jumping into the water to start on the rudder repairs.Percy had been put in charge of tool running and was now perched on the stern railing making sure they had everything.The large lag bolts holding the rudder in place had been sheared off by the log striking in exactly the wrong place.These needed to be cranked out, easy enough but because of working with wet oily metal the wrench slipped off of the square head bolts easily.After dropping it twice and having to dive for it, Percy had been sent for a length of rawhide to tie the wrench to wrists. As the last bolt came out Minnie hefted the iron hardware in one hand and pulled herself up on deck.Dropping the three hundred pound bracket on the deck with a thud she wiped the water out of her ears.Percy poked at the dripping iron, attempted to move it with no luck.¡°That looks horribly wet and cold.¡±, he said with distaste.Will called from below ¡°Get that tar warming, have to seal the new fittings and waterproof the whole area again.¡±.¡°Got it dad.¡±, Minnie replied, ¡°Now don¡¯t touch this unless you wear gloves and have long pants and long sleeves.¡±.She had lit a small brazier and carefully hung a bucket of thick black tar.¡°If that gets on you we¡¯ll have to shave the fur off, happened to me.So no touching okay?.¡±.Percy nodded, the thought of having his fur all black and sticky, then being shaved off, it made him feel faint.Will climbed up the rope ladder on the stern and towelled off.Wearing nothing but shorts and a sleeveless shirt it didn¡¯t take long.


    The old rudder had been brought up from the hold and set on a workbench on the dockside.Unfortunately several cracks ran from one end to the other, it was missing several pieces as well.Will asked Percy if he had seen any wood like this in the many storage racks.He thought for a moment then pointed to the other side, ¡°Second from that side, we sorted all that out by thickness.¡±.Minnie popped over and retrieved the long thick boards and lay them on the bench besides the old one.The small forge in the corner had been lit and the coal piled high, it would take a while to soften the thick wrought iron bands that held the wood rigid.As Will ripped the braces and different sized bands and corners from the damaged wood Minnie placed them on racks nestled among the coals of the forge.The thick planks of white oak were sawn and then planed into an exact copy of the rudder.When the iron was hot enough Minnie hammered the bent metal straight and true again.As needed the iron was heated white hot and re-wrought to give strength and flexibility again.The wood was treated with many coats of linseed oil to water proof as much as possible and then the coal tar was applied to all the joints.Under the iron as well.A long process but made easier by Will and Minnie¡¯s enhancements.No need to rest while using the blacksmiths hammer and tongs and the wood cut easily under the relentless saw blade.What might have taken two days for two average workers to complete was done in hours.The longest part was waiting on the linseed oil to properly soak into the wood fibres.Percy helped where he could, keeping work areas clean, sharpening tools as needed and the most important job of all¡­fetching Wills tea.As he did this and that he thought back, before the Rose had returned.How worried they had been, of not having a place, a home.And here they had been given the greatest gift of all, a family.The freedom to do as much or as little as he wanted, in fact Will had taken him aside and asked him to take it easier.¡°Doesn¡¯t have to be done in one day, and don¡¯t forget to get some of that honey milk you and Ron like, growing boys can never have too much milk.¡±.


    All that was left to do was a few more soaking coats of the oil and fitting the new rudder in place.¡°Tomorrow for that though, now we have a much more important task to do.¡±. Will said as they finished cleaning up.¡°Oh yeah, my favourite thing of all.¡±, Minnie cheered.¡°Eating cheese?¡±, Will asked.


    ¡°Nope¡±.


    ¡°Sleeping in?¡±.


    ¡°Wrong¡±.


    ¡°Piloting in a storm?¡±.


    ¡°That¡¯s fun but not it.¡±.


    ¡°Crazy Eights?¡±.


    ¡°Wrong again.¡±.


    ¡°Barbecuing ribs.¡±.


    ¡°That¡¯s on my list but nope.¡±.


    ¡°Drinking tea and watching the sunrise ?¡±.


    ¡°That¡¯sall you dad, not very good at guessing today are you?¡±


    Naomi came up the stairs ¡°It¡¯s shopping but if you think I¡¯m going to be seen in my hometown with you three messy trolls you have another think coming.All oily and sawdusty and you smell like the lake and tar and coal, and what did you do to poor Percy, his furs all which way.Get below and get cleaned up and clean clothes too.¡±.Again Will felt about nine years old as he went down to his cabin, followed by Minnie and Percy.A very tidy and clean Ron was heading up to wait with Naomi but took one look at his brother and nearly fell over laughing.Then he picked out clean clothes for him and helped brush his fur until it was sleek and orderly again.In their cabin Will and Minnie were nearly done as well.¡°It will be a while before I don¡¯t smell like tar, that gets into everything .¡±, Will sighed as he tied his shoes.Minnie nodded as she finished brushing her ears, she too had clean clothes and looked very fresh again.This time in white shorts, a blue shirt and her yellow boater.Will again in shorts and his usual short sleeve shirt.¡°Ready pop?¡±, Minnie asked.Will replied with a nod and up they went.


    Naomi gave them a once over and nodded her approval.Will was reminded by Minnie that they were shopping and needed the carts, so back down he went.Finally ready to be off they went to where Laketowns Main Street started.While nowhere as big as Newton, with all their fancy churches and many wonderful shops, Laketown was not as small as Will thought.But the first stop was the tavern, lunch was needed after the hard working morning.And hopefully a couple of council members would be there but if not they would be here for dinner this evening.


    Will pushed one cart, Naomi the other.Minnie was, of course, riding in Will¡¯s.Ron was asked if he wanted to ride along too but he shook his head, there was too much to see, to explore in the daytime.Percy however did take up Naomi on her offer but didn¡¯t like the bumps as much as Minnie did.The path from the Roses dock was not very travelled, no one would dare to go into a structure actually built over the water.Will stopped for a minute and made a quick note to get the path graded and vegetation cut back.Then, spying a lovely bump ahead, grasped the handles and took off towards it.Minnie saw what was coming but had no choice but to hold on tight, as they hit the cart seemed to leap three feet off the ground and land with a mighty crash and an ¡°Eeeek.¡±, from Min.¡°You hit that one on purpose.¡±, she yelled, ¡°Sure did!¡±. Will laughed.Naomi avoided the bump as Percy looked at her with pleading eyes.That was the last of them and the Main Street was ahead.


    Fairly busy today, carts and wagons abounded, coming and going from the areas farms.Loaded with late season fruit and vegetables, grains and livestock as well.Busy with people as well, and as soon as the crew was noticed, more people flocked out of homes and businesses to welcome them back.As they were near the tavern Regina came out to see what all the fuss was about .Seeing the crowds around Will and the others she also came over to hear what Will was saying.¡°We¡¯ve had many the adventure since last docking here and tonight, if you all are agreed, we will meet up at the quay and tell the tale.At the hour before dinner, and thank you all for welcoming us back.¡±.Minnie had disappeared into the crowd greeting many of her friends, mostly the gather crew members.But a few older people as well, Owen the carter and family and others Will didn¡¯t recognize.As the crowd began to disperse the crew headed to the tavern for a quick meal.


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    Now, Regina hadn¡¯t noticed the two newest crew until now.She actually did a double take after waving Will and the others to their usual table by the fire.¡°Aha, this explains everything, and who are you two.¡±, she asked.Will gave a quick explanation and promised more at dinner this evening. Regina seemed satisfied for now, but gave Naomi a look that the young girl knew well.A detailed account was required, sooner rather than later.She sighed ¡°I¡¯ll get sandwiches for lunch, everyone okay with that?¡±, getting two yes and two what¡¯s a sandwich she went to the kitchen.Regina was waiting, not idly but preparing their meal.Naomi gave her more information quickly and went back out with a tray.Not just the sandwiches but plates of pickles as well.Every fell to with a Will, the mornings work had given everyone a good appetite and the tray emptied quickly.Even though the food was new to them, the idea of bread holding meat and cheese was delightful, and both lads managed to eat a couple each.


    Minnie was tapping her foot, waiting was not her strong point, but finally the last crumbs were gone, the last tangy slice of beetroot, the last slice ofcheese gone, all gone.¡°Can we go shopping now, please please, you¡¯ve eaten all the food, drunk all the tea, even eaten all the horrible purple things, we got stuff to buy.¡±, Minnie was getting worked up.¡°All right, all right, let¡¯s go.¡± Will laughed.Waving to Regina, telling her they would see her for dinner the crew started up Main Street.


    The carts were filling fast as the shops were visited.There was more to Laketown than appeared, not as many shops as Newton but there were enough for their needs.The town was also spread out more, the space between buildings was greater, no dark alleys here.


    The first stop had been a cabinet makers workshop, Will had ordered two single beds, two new easy chairs and two dressers.Those large items would be delivered tomorrow.Now the iron monger was just beside the cabinet store and it was here Will picked out the items for building a head in the boys bedroom.Then it was the tailoring shop.Naomi had the measurements for the sleeping bags for the temporary crew, the tailor, Travis, was enchanted with the idea.He was going to create them out of quilts ¡°I can pick those up from the crafters cottage and sew them up in no time, three days from now sound fair Captain?¡±.Will agreed and signed the credit slip.It was still a marvel how there was no physical money in this society, like it had been planned.Now that Travis had mentioned a crafters shop that was their next destination.¡°Dad, I saw a candy store back there, why do we have to go to the boring old crafters, and there¡¯s a nice clothing place too, there¡¯s hats in the window.¡±, Minnie complained.¡°I know but Naomi wants more wool and a few bolts of material, we need some strong thread and canvas, lots of things.¡±, Will answered.The brothers had been quiet, but had gotten some odd looks from people as they walked along the wooden sidewalks , ¡°Father, can I ride in your cart, my feet are sore now.¡±, Percy asked plaintively.¡°Of course, hop on up buddy.¡± Will stopped while the little guy climbed aboard.


    Ron was already riding on the other cart, being pushed by Minnie now.She was being very careful not to hit bumps, and was talking away with the quiet brother.Telling him of their adventures in the far north, how cold it was and how much fun they had.Hunting and fishing, playing in the snow and making snowmen.He was hanging on every word.Percy asked ¡°Was it really that bad, will we be with you when you go back, you are going back to that awful place?¡±.Naomi answered ¡°Of course, we made friends up there and we have a big project in mind but not for three months.¡±.¡°Oh good.¡±, Percy sighed. The next stop was the bookstore, leaving the carts outside Will could smell that unique odour all bookshops have.Combination of paper, dust and ink, always brought up memories.Today though Minnie and Naomi were talking with the owner, to see if she would be interested in their travel book.Will added a few comments here and there but this was their show.Percy and Ron were leafing through the large tome, in awe of the pictures.But unable to read the descriptions of where, when and so on.¡°Of course we¡¯re interested.¡±, Phillipa said.An older person with a non nonsense attitude.¡°What I would suggest is bring one book out a year, the continuing voyages of the steamship Rose.¡±.Will covered a laugh with a cough, she actually said that, he thought.


    It took a while to work out the details, payment arrangements and so on but it was done to everyone¡¯s satisfaction.All the credit was for Naomi and Minnie this time and forever.Will had picked up a few simple books, planning to use them to help the lads to read.It seemed so long ago that he had done this with Minnie, her ¡®becoming¡¯ helped too.There was knowledge embedded into her while she was changing, sleeping early and waking late as the magic worked.It had been a wonderful thing to see, changing from one day to the next.If the boys experiences were anything similar then the next couple of days would be fun.


    A few other books had been chosen, some historical, some fiction that piqued his interest.Several reams of blank paper, a few dozen notebooks, pens and ink, a binding press and glue.Now it was to the wool store so Naomi could resupply her supplies.A small store, stuck on a residence near the far edge of town.Plain white exterior but full of some of the brightest colours Will had ever seen.Vibrant orange wools, spools of eye-watering blue thread, bolts of rich coloured cloth.Naomi was quite enamoured but seemed taken aback as well, the prices were more than she wanted to pay.¡°Remember, we have enough credit to buy anything, go wild¡±. Will whispered to her.The smile on her face was reward enough and the pile on the counter was growing.Oddly enough Ron was also looking at some wools and gently touching the smooth bright colours.¡°Do you want to get some too?I¡¯m sure Naomi will teach you how, Minnie has no patience for it, and I¡¯m a bit busy to knit.¡±.The little man was a bit startled but soon was showing Naomi the colours he liked, she in turn was selecting a knitting needle kit for him, all the accessories he would need.Percy seemed unimpressed with the whole store and was sitting in a shopping cart outside with Minnie, talking about screwdrivers.Will shrugged, whatever makes him happy.


    Several bulging shopping bags were on the carts now, packed with all sorts of crafting goodies.Looking at it made Will think of trips to craft stores over the years, all the different projects.One that stuck in his mind was little animals made of pipe cleaners, they just made him happy for some reason.Speaking of happy, as he had gripped the shopping cart handles earlier he noticed they had been improved upon, given a grip pattern so his hands wouldn¡¯t slip.A series of happy faces had been engraved into the hard wood, different shaped eyes, different grins.When he had pointed this out to Minnie she just shrugged ¡°I was bored one night.¡±.¡°Well it¡¯s amazingly cute, good job sweetheart.¡±, he replied.


    A few more stores waited, one of particular interest.It was an offshoot of the physicians office, a drug store on one side and, wonder of wonders, the candy store Minnie had spied earlier, on the other.As they came close the design of the building seemed so familiar from somewhere but it evaded his recall.This store had a special item today, a hard candy stick but hollow and filled with rich nougat.The crew bought a few dozen after tasting a sample from the jolly candy man who was, oddly enough also one of the town dentists. It didn¡¯t seem that any of the crew would ever need his services though.Wills teeth had de-aged when the rest of him had and were in the best shape of his life.In fact, when Minnie had cracked a tooth a few months ago, on a arrowhead left in a game bird, the tooth was repaired the next morning.So the candy held no fear for them. There were marzipan creations and nougat rolls.A few sugar plums and pounds of candied fruit and vegetables, tree nuts baked in salts and syrup, boiled sweets and lollipops, so many lollipops.Reginald, the proprietor mentioned he was look forward to the talk at the dock, Will checked his watch.Yes, that time was coming close.


    Will and Minnie ran the carts back to the dock, the other three headed to the dock.Everything was still so new to Ron and Percy, their heads turned at every new thing, every sight and sound.A group of children spied Naomiand the boys and come over to walk to the quay with them.As they walked nearer and nearer to the lake the sound and the sight of the gathered crowds became clearer.Will and Minnie joined them to the boy¡¯s relief, Naomi was not a tall person and at times she was getting lost in the people.Will set a beeline for her and the crowd cleared out, Minnie in his wake.¡°Hi there.¡±, he said, ¡°Miss us?¡±.Percy nodded, ¡°I thought they were going to crush us, so many of them, everyone looking at us.¡±.¡°They¡¯re all just interested, the Rose is a pretty big deal here.¡±, Minnie told him.The Laketown folk had congregated at the end of the quay, the crew passed through them and set up a few yards in.Will looked around and saw a couple of barrels on the quay, about halfway down.Minnie saw what he was looking at and hopped over to get them.Rolling them to Will down the boards with a rumble, he caught and set them up for a seat.¡°Well, since we were last here we¡¯ve had many adventures.New friends, freezing weather¡­cold like you couldn¡¯t imagine, attacked by sharps, a damaged boat.¡±.

 Explanations and More

    Chapter 56.Explanations and More


    ¡°And that¡¯s how the rudder got broken, a sea monster threw a log at us.¡±, Minnie explained.A hubbub of voices were asking questions, did it follow you, how big was it, did you kill it, who are those little guys?The tale telling had wound down and people had been enthralled by the stories.Their small world had been opened, just a bit,it was realizing there was more out there, and more to life than the day to day.The young folk, ones that had gone gathering on the Rose, were acting like this was an every day thing.It always happened and we dealt with it, aren¡¯t we cool.There was no one to set the record straight anyways, let them have their fifteen minutes.


    After checking the time Will found it was getting close to the council showing for dinner.Seeing Stephen talking with a couple he didn¡¯t recognize he waited until noticed, ¡°Sorry to interrupt but um, how to put this, are we doing a potluck thing or are you providing?¡±.Stephen laughed ¡°No worries, we¡¯ll supply everything, if you can cook it for us all.I¡¯m interested to see the famous grill in action.And what¡¯s a potluck?¡±.Minnie rolled her eyes at Naomi, why were all the men fascinated by cooking outside.But with that question answered, and the talk just about over it was decided to head back to the Rose.Just in time for the little fellows, they hadn¡¯t like the attention much, Ron had whispered to Percy ¡°So many people, but they¡¯re all nice right?¡±.Percy hadn¡¯t answered just held his brothers hand, only to find Wills large hand on Ron¡¯s shoulder.Just as Naomi was standing close to him, as he stood on the barrel.It was comforting in a way he only half remembered but still appreciated.


    The crowd dispersed as the hour was getting late, ¡°Are they about to roll up the sidewalks?¡±, Minnie asked Will.He laughed ¡°Looks like it, we better get back to the Rose or we¡¯ll get rolled up too, come on lads!¡±.Leaving the dock, waving to the townsfolk still near, the race was on.¡°Last one there¡¯s a rotten egg.¡±, Will called out.Not really knowing what was going on but still somehow compelled to run everyone took off.It wasn¡¯t too far but Minnie was the winner by a nose and only because she made a mighty leap and flew the last thirty feet.Naomi had as well, much to the astonishment of Percy and Ron.Will strolled up, ¡°Yup, I¡¯m the loser today, I¡¯ll do dishes tonight.¡±.¡°How can they jump like that, and you¡¯re all so strong, will we get that way too?¡±, Percy asked.Will shrugged, ¡°We¡¯ve been on the water for a long time now, changed from what we were.You probably will too.¡±.That was reassuring to him, but the the question came up, did he want to change, would it be better?Will could see he was worrying so he sat with him for just a moment on the deck benches that were along the railings.¡°I can¡¯t say don¡¯t worry, the future can be scary.But Minnie turned out okay, mostly.¡±.¡°Gee thanks dad.¡±, Minnie snorted as she came aboard.Will laughed and went on ¡°I think the way the magic works is by being on the water, the Rose helps too, the magic is strong on her as well.¡±.¡°Will we change til we aren¡¯t us anymore, I like being me, Ron too, he doesn¡¯t want to change either.¡±.Will reached and hugged his littlest friend ¡°You¡¯ll still be you, just a little different, maybe taller, maybe stronger but still Percy.My smallest of friends but always the bravest.¡±.


    ¡°Now,¡± he said, ¡°I need to pull the Rose out a bit so the bow is more outside, in the air, cause sometimes the barbecue smokes up a bit.¡±.Looking around everyone else was conspicuously not there.Sighing he held out a long oar to Percy, ¡°Try to steer us a bit, hold that in the water behind the boat and just keep it straight , if it sticks let go, you don¡¯t want to fall in.In fact, put this life belt on, just in case.¡±.Will went to the bow, tied a long line to the anchor hitch and jumped the twenty feet to shore.Shouted at Percy to keep us straight and gave a mighty tug.The Rose shot forward about twenty feet until the prow hit the rocky bank outside the covered dock. ¡°Oh, that should do it.¡±, he mumbled, and jumped back aboard .Percy waved from the stern ¡°How was that?¡±.Will gave him a thumbs up and called ¡°Good job.¡±.Minnie had come on deck in a hurry to see what was up and just shook her head at the shenanigans. ¡°Hey Min, is there still room to put out a gangway for our guests, inside the dock?¡±, Will asked from the bow.She did a quick survey ¡°Yup, I¡¯ll set that up now.¡±.She pulled open a hatch and dropped down into the aft hold, and returned a few moments later, then lifted the long railed gangway up and out.And quickly fitted it in place.Ron had come up as well, to see what all the fuss was, he saw Percy holding the long oar and ambled over to see what his now diminutive brother was doing.¡°I steered.¡±, Percy said proudly.


    After dropping anchor, just in case, Will started bringing up the chairs and tables used for entertaining and eating on deck.He hmmmed for a bit then brought up three potbelly stoves as well and a couple of full wood boxes.Minnie was at the workbenches with the lads, inspecting the new rudder.¡°Nice and dry pop, it¡¯s ready to install.You want to do that now, or tomorrow?¡±, she called over.¡°What time is it?, he returned.¡°It¡¯s half past five, maybe tomorrow then huh, we¡¯ll get wet, and probably icky with the weedies and lake goo.¡±, she answered.¡°Yup, tomorrow, let¡¯s clean up the deck a bit, light some lanterns and set up this lot..¡±, Will suggested.¡°Yeah, then Naomi said to come get some respectable clothes on, me too, those guys too, she¡¯s been primping for a while now, changed clothes about threehundred times and fixed her hair twice.Oh and teas ready too.¡±.Will looked at Ron who nodded and took off belowdecks to return in a minute with a fresh cuppa.¡°Oh that¡¯s the ticket.¡±, Will sighed taking a good sized sip, ¡°Thanks.¡±, and patted Ron¡¯s shoulder.Finding a couple of brooms he set the new guys sweeping while he and Minnie lined up the stoves along the port rail like three iron dwarves.Then the tables and chairs set up in the mid decks under the lantern.Minnie fiddled with the ignition setup until it sparked to life and brought a warm glow to the dimming surroundings.


    Then they all trooped belowdecks to change.After a quick wash, just to get a bit of dust and grime off Will changed into a long grey robe.Then changed his mind and put on khaki shorts, collared shirt and flip flops.Minnie had changed into a caftan, looked at him and laughed, ¡°Why not a robe tonight?Be warmer if a chill comes up, and I think the little guys are wearing matching robes too.Naomi laid their clothes out earlier.¡±.¡°Maybe not grey then, yours is green and white stripes, I should go blue maybe.¡±.So a dark blue belted robe was tried on, ¡°Nope, just not feeling robey tonight, going back to the shorts.¡±, Will decided.A knock at the cabin door, Minnie looked at him, Will nodded and she opened up.There were two people wearing matching green caftans, belted at the waist with an orange sash.¡°Ooh, looking good bros.¡±, Minnie said.Ron nodded his thanks, Percy was a bit more vocal, ¡°We do look nicer than usual, the tailor man found these for us today.¡±. Talking and walking to the mess they found Naomi waiting.She appeared to have gone all out and was wearing one of her high/low dresses that she favoured.Very high, and very low.While giving their talk today Will had noticed that no other young lady was wearing anything like her usual outfits.He had gingerly mentioned it, in a very roundabout way, she had laughed, told him not to be so nervous and there was only one Naomi in the world.And she would dress the way she wanted.


    Hearing muffled voices coming closer Minnie alerted Will and the others that company was coming, after a final check they went up on deck to greet them.


    A knock was heard on the dock door and , at Wills called ¡°Come in, come in!¡±, the door open and quite a few people came in.Will recognized Stephen and the other councillors except for one smaller man, and six others who might be significant others or aides.Nope, they¡¯re aides,following and carrying several wooden crates.There was a bit of a scrum as everyone boarded, introduced themselves.The entrees and side dishes were taken to the bow to be set grilling, frying, boiling as needed.Will and Minnie helped relocate the stoves to the bow when he saw two of the young people struggling to lift one.He and Minnie lifted one each easily, then Will came back to get the last.Minnie had discovered the young aides were teens that had come along on their first trip, so long ago.So she was chatting with them for the next while.


    After everyone was set, tea or coffee poured, or in some cases wine or an ale, Will had an introduction to make.He stood and gestured to where Percy and Ron were waiting patiently in a shadowed section of the deck and beckoned them forward.¡°I understand you had a bit of excitement over the past few weeks, things going missing.These two are my friends from my former world.They were brought here by the same being that helped Minnie and I.We would like to thank you all, and the townsfolk for helping my¡­well the only way to think of them is my children.¡±.As he had brought them forward the last member of the council, a man called Lorenzo had gasped and said ¡°I told you I saw a small furry orange person, you all laughed but there they are.¡±.A few questions flew at once but Regina shushed everyone and asked the brothers if they were okay now and that they were sorry for the way the town had first reacted.¡°That¡¯s my big sister, she¡¯s awesome.¡±, Naomi whispered to Will.


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    The council had brought the makings for dinner, and had they ever.Minnies favourite beef ribs and steak, a hot potato and vegetable medley, fresh rolls and cheese buns.At the sight of those Ron had elbowed his brother and managed to rasp out ¡°Our favourites.¡±.A cheese tray was also unwrapped causing Percy to gasp with happiness , ¡°Oh I love those little cheeses, thank you for bringing them.¡±.Lorenzo was delighted to make the brothers acquaintance and offered a few of his newest cheese attempts, all delicious.Minnie had rejoined after making sure the ribs and the steaks wouldn¡¯t be over cooked, ¡°Remember, nice and rare.¡±, she called to the teen cooks.Regina laughed, ¡°They¡¯re very good in the kitchen, they run the tavern for me most days.¡±.Naomi picked up on that, ¡°Are you away from the business a lot lately?¡±.Regina shook her head ¡°Later, okay?¡±.


    Will had been deep in conversation with Stephen, Boris and Margaret, about Laketown¡¯s needs.The barges had been built and were ready for testing.The crews had followed Magnus¡¯s plans to the T, so they were exact duplicates of the ones used by Newton.¡°So one filled with coal and one with lumber?Are you sure not two coal right away, winters coming.¡±, he asked.Stephen nodded ¡°Our coal need is not as great as Newtons, but we really need lumber.This way we can get two fish with one arrow.¡±.What an odd twist Will thought.¡°Okay, can do.We will finish repairs tomorrow, resupply oh and we¡¯re waiting on some new things for the gathering crew from Travis.¡±.¡°Ah good man, hard worker.¡±, Boris added, ¡°He¡¯s my son-in-laws business partner.Tailoring and skinning.¡±.As he mentioned that Will remembered the dozens of bales of hides and pelts still stored below.¡°Something on your mind captain?¡±, Margaret asked.Will nodded, ¡°Those people we reconnected with, the burrowers we called them, they gifted us with a huge amount of furs, and leathers of all kinds.Something the town might be interested in.¡±.Boris looked interested and soon Will took him below to the hold where the skins were still stacked.¡°Oh my, these are prime pieces, things I¡¯ve never seen, if the town won¡¯t trade I¡¯ll buy them personally.¡±, the man said excitedly.


    Coming back on deck they found everything was ready, ribs and steak cooked perfectly, same with the other dishes.The one empty table was loaded up so all the guests could fill their plates then get the beef from a happy Minnie at the bow.When Will came up for his she told him she had tested the beef and found it okay.¡°That¡¯s good sweetie, I know it¡¯s a sacrifice.¡±, he answered.The little boys were staying close to Will and when he settled back at midships to eat, they sat beside him.Not eating much in the way of vegetables but they did enjoy the ribs and cheese buns.Seeing small Percy and Ron clutching a huge beef rib in both hands and attacking with gusto brought a smile to Wills face.Eat up boyos, he thought, you¡¯ve got some growing to do.Minnie joined him after leaving the now warming meat in the capable hands of Regina¡¯s cooks.¡°Pretty yum dad, been a while since we had ribs.¡±.Will did a quick calculation, ¡°it¡¯s been like four days since we had fresh beef, a very long time indeed, I¡¯m amazed you survived.¡±. She nodded ¡°I know, it¡¯s been hard.¡±.Sometimes he couldn¡¯t tell if she was kidding or not.This time though, with the side eye grin she was definitely kidding around.From the look of her loaded plate she was pretty happy now, with the food, but something was eating at her.Will looked over at Naomi who was sitting close to Regina, aha he thought.¡°Something going on there you think?¡±, he whispered to Minnie.She nodded ¡°oh yeah, want me to listen in?¡±.¡°Nah, if Naomi wants us to know she¡¯ll tell us.¡±.Percy heard them talking, looked over at Ron who had taken on a plate of ribs and was now working on a rare steak.He knew what was going on, had overheard Regina a few days ago talking about things with Stephen.Yet as father said, it wasn¡¯t his business.And there was cake, he poked Ron who had just finished and pointed at the cakes.Slowly and stealthily they crept in the shadow, slinking from chair to table until the treasure was close within reach, he reached a hand out until¡­. ¡°Hey, a big piece or a small one, one of each kind, that¡¯s what I do, pie too if you¡¯re a pie guy, I am a pie gal but cake too.There¡¯s whipped cream too and that¡¯s like the best thing ever except for bacon, and cheese and milk, oh don¡¯t forget the milk, so yes?¡±, he looked up as he heard Minnie¡¯s voice. ¡°Don¡¯t need to sneak around no more, unless it¡¯s for fun, then it¡¯s okay.¡±, she laughed.


    Seeing that Minnie had a handle on the two would be burglars Will looked over at his other girl, sitting beside Regina she looked sad, her sister too.Should he go and make idle talk until someone gave in and told him what was up?He didn¡¯t like to interfere in family matters but this was his concern as well.Naomi had chosen to live with them on the Rose, was this the concern, then Stephen caught his eye and motioned towards the bow.Snagging a piece of cake and one of apple pie he followed him to the crews usual area, he found Minnie and the little guys already there.¡°I saw you thinking about talking to Regina, that might not end well.¡±, Stephen started.Will shrugged ¡°Her hurt feelings aren¡¯t really my concern, Naomi however is.Do you know what¡¯s going on, seems fairly serious.¡±.Sighing, Stephen nodded ¡°She¡¯s leaving Laketown for the mountains, selling the tavern to her uncle.Told me she thought Naomi would be running it but that won¡¯t happen now.¡±.¡°I thought it might be something of the sort, her and Naomi were pretty close til we came along.¡±, Will said.The other man held up his arms helplessly ¡°Things happen for a reason, our ancestors knew this, we do too if we¡¯re not caught up in things too much.You were meant to be here, just as Naomi was meant to be waiting for you both here.¡±.¡°Dad said it like that too, she was the daughter of his heart, waiting for us here.¡± Minnie added.Stephen agreed ¡°Regina knows that too, she¡¯s not angry but being here is too much, reminding her of what¡¯s changed.After all.¡±, he went on, ¡°You¡¯ll be coming and going for many many years, unchanging and seeing that will be hard as well.¡±.Will gaped for a moment ¡°Ah, I didn¡¯t realize you knew about that.¡±.Stephen smiled ¡°I didn¡¯t know for sure until just now, but I suspected for a while now, the council did, that is.¡±.¡°We didn¡¯t mean to conceal it, but it¡¯s not something you bring up over tea and cakes in the back yard, oh by the way we¡¯re going to live forever, one lump or two?¡±, Will said.


    Naomi looked around and saw dad, Minnie and Stephen were deep in conversation at the bow of the ship.I can imagine what, she thought.After the talk she and her sister had just gone through, it might be time to lighten things up a bit.She quickly ran belowdecks and retrieved her fiddle and Minnie¡¯s penny whistle from the lounge.Then to the bow where she handed Minnie her instrument and looked at Will.¡°Galway Gal, and show these friends of ours how to do a proper singalong?¡±.Minnie was overjoyed and started the intro right away.Will knew what was up but was always good for a tune and a song, and if it helped then even better.The sounds of the fiddle and whistle drew everyone to the bow as Will started with the opening, clapping hands in time ¡°I took a walk down the old long walk¡­¡±.And they were off.A couple of hours later the two players sat in tired heaps, some songs had been repeated several times and had become instant favourites.It was comforting to think that the unicorn song and Puff would live in this world now.


    As the evening broke up and the councillors began to drift off to home Will checked the time and found it was only a couple of hours til sunrise.¡°Right, I officially declare a lazy day.¡±, he announced.Minnie gave a weary cheer as did Naomi, Percy and Ron were long asleep.After the teens had cleaned and packaged everything up, and the deck of the Rose was as it had been, the weary crew made their way below.Will saw the young people off and thanked them for the hard work put in for everyone¡¯s benefit.¡°Happy to do it captain, least we can do for all you do for us.¡±, the oldest said.Making sure no stragglers had fallen asleep on deck Will finally joined the others below.Naomi was lingering by her cabin, ¡°We¡¯ll talk tomorrow okay, thanks for letting it go tonight.¡±, she said, giving him a tight hug and going into her cabin.Will sighed, then went to check on his other two lads.Minnie had carried them below and they were sound asleep in their new beds that had been delivered.One on each side of the room, snoring away.He knelt besides the beds and made sure they were warm and tucked in, ¡°Night fellas, see you in the morning.¡±.


    Checking below that all lanterns were out, stoves cool and boiler on low Will finally made it to his and Mins cabin.There was a single candle lit in a glass safety holder on the nightstand close to him.Minnie was already huddled in bed, a blanket mound with eyes.¡°Hey, took your time hmmm?¡±, she murmured as he came in. ¡°Always lots to do before bed, at least I don¡¯t have to put the dog out now.¡±, he laughed.¡°Har har har, fun night huh.¡±, she answered.¡°Yeah it was, why haven¡¯t we done that before, singing and stuff, I loved it.¡±, he asked going in to the head.He could hear through the door ¡°I dunno, cause you¡¯re old and forgetful?¡± Minnie muttered.Coming out he climbed under the covers before a chill hit, the heavy quilt so comfortable.He blew out the candle and reached for a small hand, and as he found it he could feel his eyes and mind dropping off, ¡°Night Min, sweet dreams.¡±.


    He slept the darkness away and by the light coming in the port it was well into morning.Hearing ¡°Dad, dad, you¡¯ve got to see this!¡±, had him tumbling out of bed in a hurry.Throwing on a robe and flinging open the door he could see Minnie standing in the open door of the boys room.

 Change for the Better?

    Chapter 57. Change for the Better?


    Minnie and Naomi were standing at the boys room looking in, when Will arrived he looked in to find that there had been changes overnight.He thought there might have been and expected something.Minnie had started the day they arrived but the process had only taken about a week for her to change into what she was now.Mostly at night then getting used to the changes, both mental and physical, during the day.Testing her limits.The boys changes were different but just as profound, going from house cats to what they were now had taken much longer, and from what he was looking at now, much quicker.As he looked overtop of Minnie as she stood in the corridor in to the boys room, Naomi was there too, trying to stop the giggles coming out.What he finally saw was quite different than the night before.Ron had grown until he was nearly as tall as Minnie, maybe a couple of inches shorter, his thick orange fur had shortened and thinned.Their faces had changed too, less muzzle and more face, but still with whiskers.Hand and feet had straightened more and become like, well like hands and feet.Their paw like form had disappeared and as Will gently held the little hand, there were still claws somehow. Will sat down on the bed beside him, ¡°How do you feel Ronny, hurt anywhere?¡±.Ron shook his head ¡°No, just feel kinda strange.¡±, his voice was still deep but not as raspy and painful it seemed.Will turned to check on Percy next who was sitting on his bed cross legged.¡°Hi guy, how are you this morning?¡±.


    Percy stood up in front of him, hands on hips ¡°Oh I¡¯m fine, just fine.¡±.Will had to admit he looked much the same as Ron, hand and feet changed, still catlike but not as much.Shorter hair too.Only difference was in height, he was still quite diminutive, ¡°Tiny, quite short, small.¡±, Minnie said helpfully.Percy glared at her, ¡°I grew a little bit, look over there, I marked the door yesterday and today I¡¯m this much bigger.¡±, he held out two fingers to show how much.¡°Well that¡¯s something, more than Minnie did her first days.She was becoming faster, you guys have been here a while so it might be different.¡±, Will replied.¡°But I wanted to be bigger, or the same as Ron at least.¡±.He tried to walk and tottered a bit on unsteady legs, but quickly balanced.¡°You will be, don¡¯t worry, we have all the time in the world.¡±, Naomi told him, ¡°Now who¡¯s for breakfast?¡±.That perked the two boys up and with a bit of help they tottered to the galley, each step with more confidence.


    An all out breakfast today, to give the growing boys strength.Bacon, potatoes, eggs and toast, tea and coffee.Ron still enjoyed his tea while Percy and Minnie were looking at him in horror, ¡°How, why, it¡¯s so revolting.¡±, Minnie shook her head.Ron shrugged ¡°It makes my throat feel better and I like the taste, besides father likes it too so there.¡±.Mentioning his sore neck always made Percy sad, so he tried the tea again, just to keep his brother happy.Minnie was watching him as he raised the mug and took a big mouthful, her eyes widened as he held it and swished it through and around.¡°Bleargh, ack, no still horrible, I can taste the weedies and the dirt and bug poop, yuck.¡± he managed to choke out.Minnie clapped him on the back, ¡°That¡¯s my boy.¡±.Will had to laugh at the antics, he knew Minnie was trying very hard to make the little fellows feel at home.¡°How about some coffee then?¡±, Naomi asked, bringing in the percolator that had been bubbling away on the hob.¡°Minnie hates that too, but you never know.¡±, she added.¡°Can I just taste yours, don¡¯t want to waste it if I don¡¯t?¡±, Percy asked.She pushed her full mug over, ¡°I take it with lots of cream and sugar, dad likes it black though.¡±.¡°Well of course, then it tastes like coffee, not whatever you put in it.¡±, Will said.Raising the mug to his mouth he took a sip, then another hit pulled away, ¡°Nope, oh yuck, it¡¯s horrible too, no thanks.¡±, he pushed it away, back to Naomi.¡°Told you so.¡±, Minnie said.


    After breakfast the days tasks were decided.As much as they had planned a lazy day for today there was just too much to do.¡°Tomorrow, I promise, a nice do nothing lazy day.¡±, Will said, over a last cuppa.¡°I¡¯ll check on Travis and see if our, what are they called, sleeping sacks?See if they¡¯re ready.¡±, Naomi offered.¡°We have to get that rudder on, the Rose doesn¡¯t like being broken.¡±, Minnie added.¡°Yeah, that won¡¯t wait and it shouldn¡¯t take long, mount it, connect the chains, go for a test run, easy peasy.¡±, Will said.Ron tapped Naomi¡¯s hand and pointed at himself, ¡°Want to come with?¡±, she asked.¡°Yes please.¡±, he whispered.¡°Okay, you can push the shopping cart, we got lots of stuff to get, Percy?You coming too?¡±, Naomi added.Will could see he didn¡¯t like being separated from Ron, but after a second or two ¡°I¡¯ll help father and Minnie with the repairs, that¡¯s more fun than going in a bunch of stores¡­Hey watch it!¡±.His brother had flicked a toast crust at him and it bounced off his nose, ¡°I¡¯ll get you!¡±, the smaller brother yelled and chased his much larger relation out of the mess and up and out on deck.A wild clatter of feet could be heard and Minnie couldn¡¯t resist and ran out to join in the chase game.Will sighed, finished his tea and began to gather dishes.Between the two, the galley and mess were sparkling clean in a short time.Then it was off to work.


    Will hauled the shopping carts out of storage and tied a line from a hoist in the main hold, then went up on deck.He found Minnie panting in a chair, boys on either side puffing away as well.¡°Quick little guys, I still won but, yeah good fun, right bros?¡±, she wheezed.¡°Only reason you won is cause you jump like a frog.¡±, Percy griped.Ron patted Minnie¡¯s arm and nodded.¡°As long as no one fell in the lake,¡±, Will said, ¡°Hey we¡¯ll have to teach you to swim, just in case.¡±.Percy looked down at the dark cool water and his tail puffed out and his ears flattened, ¡°No thanks, maybe Ron likes the water but not me.¡±.¡°Crew has to be able to swim, we all wear lifebelts when we¡¯re at sea, but you still have to learn, it¡¯ll be fun.¡±, Will told him.Minnie tried to cheer him up ¡°When it¡¯s really hot and we¡¯re all yuck, we just jump in and swim down down to the bottom, then dad chucks us around, it¡¯s wheee and crash in the water, so much fun.¡±.Naomi arrived on deck and joined in ¡°I didn¡¯t like going in at first but now I love it, I¡¯m sure you will too.¡±.Percy still wasn¡¯t convinced but cheered up when Will told him not today, ¡°Work first, sorry.¡±.


    Ron happily pushed the shopping cart down Main Street beside Naomi, just taking in the sights and sounds.It was very different to be out in the daytime and not slinking along in the shadows searching for food.They had checked in with the tailor first thing, he had told them their order would be ready today and he would deliver it himself.And if it wasn¡¯t too much trouble could he come aboard?He had only arrived in Laketown a few years ago and had only ever seen the Rose from a distance.¡°Of course, I¡¯ll give you the grand tour, what your working on for us will save us so much work!¡±, Naomi replied.¡°I was going to talk to you about selling the sleeping bags, what would the captain want for a share of the profits?¡±, Travis asked.¡°You¡¯d have to talk to dad, but he¡¯s a very generous man, don¡¯t worry.¡±, as she was talking she noticed Ron had been examining a embroidered pillow case, his gentle fingers running over the heavy stitches.Travis saw as well ¡°My wife does that, takes a long time but so worth it.Customers give her an idea of what they like and it usually takes her a month or two to complete.¡±.Ron whispered to Naomi ¡°I¡¯d like to do that.¡±, pointing at the picture made of thread.¡°Oh that would be wonderful, I knit and crochet all the time, keeps my hands busy, it would be nice to have someone else interested.¡±, Naomi gushed.Travis, seeing an opportunity, was busy gathering supplies, threads of every colour, packets of needles, hoops and frames, the thick fabric to sew in, everything a beginner would need.Including a handwritten pamphlet , a ¡®how to¡¯ guide his wife included when she found out it was for a crewman.¡°Better put more thread in, we¡¯re gone for long times, and running out in the middle of a project would be bad.¡±, Naomi remarked.Eventually they ended up buying all of the floss Travis had in stock, he was ecstatic at such a profitable day.¡°Between this sale and the sleeping bags, it¡¯s been the best day I¡¯ve ever had.¡±, he told Naomi.¡°Well, we need twenty more sleeping bags, how does that sound?¡±, the young girl asked him.¡°Oh my, that¡¯s amazing news, wait til the weavers hear, I used most of their stock for this job.¡±, Travis answered, ¡°But why somany?¡±.¡°Spares in case of damage, and to send the used ones ashore for washing when the gatherers leave.¡±, Naomi replied.


    The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    After Naomi and Ron left Will organized the rudder repair.Again Percy was on tool duty and was presently dangling a bucket with the mounting hardware inside over the stern.Will was holding the rudder in place while Minnie was struggling to fit the top fitting in place.¡°You gotta keep it straight, I got the bearing pintle on but the upper retaining pintle is giving me grief.¡±, she nearly yelled.¡°Hey Percy, can you pass me a little round washer thing, with raised edges, about the size of your thumb?¡±, Minnie called up a moment later.He dumped the bucket contents on a towel in front of him, to keep things from rolling away, found the needed piece and lowered it down on a hook.Minnie carefully took it and placed it on the retaining bolt and then tightened the fitting.¡°Done, that¡¯ll hold it.¡±, she said.¡°Good job, was just a bit of a pain, the waters a bit colder today.¡±, Will chattered, ¡°Coming up to get warm for a minute.¡±.Climbing up the rope ladder and grabbing a towel, then his tea flask, he sat on the deck beside the other two.¡°Why is it the rudder that always gets broke, this is the second repair job since we¡¯ve been here.¡±, Minnie asked.Will shrugged ¡°I think it¡¯s the only other moving part outside of the hull, except for the prop.And the heartwood¡¯s strong but the weak point is the fittings, have to be flexible.¡±. Minnie looked over the side, ¡°Just have to fit the steering chains and we¡¯re finished, I can¡¯t imagine doing this to the north, in that icy water.¡±.Will shook his head ¡°We¡¯d have to dry dock somehow, beach her maybe.¡±.He stood, ¡°Let¡¯s finish up.¡±.


    Will jumped over the side and waited to hook up the chains, Minnie went below and made her way to steerage, a small compartment at the stern.Percy sat on the railing looking down, waiting to see what anyone needed.He saw the chains being fed out and Will hooked up one side then the other.¡°Hey Percy, run up to the wheelhouse and spin the big wheel one way , then the other okay?¡±, Will called up.¡°All right.¡±, Percy answered and ran down the deck and went into the wheelhouse for the first time.Gripping the wheel tightly he cautiously turned, finding it surprisingly easy to move.One way, then the other and his sensitive ears picked up Wills shouted ¡°Good one Perce, come on back.¡±.Carefully shutting the door he hurried back to the stern.¡°Hey, there should be a couple of big u-bolts, need both please,¡±, was called up.Looking around he found them in the parts pile on the deck and lowered them down.A few minutes later Will climbed back up, dripping wet but with a happy grin, ¡°All done and we¡¯re mobile again, let¡¯s go for a test run.¡±.


    Naomi and Ron were heading to the crafters cottage when they heard the steam whistle sing out, ¡°Oh good, dad and Minnie got things fixed and we¡¯re back in business, I just hope Percy didn¡¯t get mucky again.¡±.Ron just snorted, ¡°He likes it really, just likes to complain too.¡±, he whispered.


    On board the boiler was lighted and making steam, deck cleaned up and tools put back in the stores until next time.Will had changed out of his wet clothes, so had Minnie and were both dry at least, maybe going for a bath later.But this was good enough for now.They were all sitting in the wheelhouse watching the pressure gauge, just waiting to engage the engine.Will reached down and tapped the glass, ¡°Looks good, I¡¯ll go lift anchors, take us out as soon as I give the word.¡±. The windows of the wheelhouse were open so there was no problem with Minnie hearing him when he called out ¡°Good to go!¡±.Hitting dead slow on the throttle the Rose slowly pulled out of the dock and made a slow turn out to the open lake.This was Percy¡¯s first time being out on the water and he loved it.Dashing from one side of the bow to the other, taking in all the sights and sounds.The deep thrumming of the engine belowdecks, the stack chuffing out black coal smoke, the wind had picked up and was whipping and cracking the pennants on the guy wires.As she picked up speed the bow was lifting then dropping as they climbed the waves, not rough at all but the spray was cold and invigorating.¡°Wow, this is fun, and we do this all the time?¡±, the little guy asked Will.He nodded ¡°Let¡¯s go back inside, a little dryer.¡±.They entered the wheelhouse and Percy gave a shake to remove the spray. Minnie put the boat through a series of sharp turns, cutting hard to port then starboard.At times the Rose was heeled over so much the railing was close to the waters.Then heaving to while Will again dove in to check fittings for any loosening, but their work was solid with no problems.As soon as he was back on deck Minnie started up, full speed back to Laketown.


    They cruised along the shore, just a few dozen yards out then turning to tie up at the long quay.Safely tied off Will went below to turn the boiler to low for the night.They were expecting a resupply wagon or twothis afternoon and were going to laze on deck until they showed.Will had a mug of fresh tea, Minnie had poured her and Percy a glass of milk, they were enjoying their drinks and a few biscuits at the bow.¡°Would you explain what you do, for the village, they all love you so.¡±, Percy asked.¡°Can we wait until Ron¡¯s here?Then we don¡¯t have to explain twice.¡± Will said.As they sat and enjoyed the day a sharp whistle came from the land, there was the two carts with their resupply.Minnie sprang off of the Rose with a tremendous leap and landed a quarter way down the quay.She scampered the rest of the way and hopped up on Owens loaded wagon.¡°Is all this for us, that¡¯s a lot of food.¡±, she laughed as he started backing down the quay.¡°Oh yeah, I heard your going to be busy for a while.Logging hmmm?¡±.Minnie nodded ¡°We haven¡¯t done that before, sounds more dangerous.¡±.They had reached the Rose and Will came to meet up with them, followed by Percy.¡°Hello captain, it¡¯s been a few months, how are you?¡±, Owen called.Will assured him they were fine and were looking forward to the next trip out.¡°Older crew this time, logging can be dangerous work and I don¡¯t want the young ones hurt.¡±, he told the large driver.Owen nodded ¡°I worked in the far mountains when I was younger, logging.Good forest there but so far, it¡¯s a month there and a month back.¡±.¡°Well, we¡¯re going to trawl along the coast tile we find a gathering spot, for coal and has good timber. Set the youngsters going with the coal and the crew will manage the felling part.¡±.¡°Yeah!¡±, said Minnie excitedly, ¡°Going to take a tree down in one hit, choppy choppy!¡±.Owen laughed, but then remembered how easily she had lifted the supplies aboard last time, and that amazing jump to meet him.They set to unloading, which didn¡¯t take long and then Dave was backing his heavily loaded wagon down the quay.His wagon was also unloaded in a short while and the two drivers waved goodbye and headed out.


    Will and Minnie emptied the hold of the supplies, but just left the galley items in the mess hall.Will knew Naomi was quite particular about what went where and didn¡¯t want to mess up her system.Besides, he had another task to work on.Putting facilities in the boys cabin.They had roughed out where the walls were going, and had made sure there was enough material for that.The commode, sink and fitting had been included in this supply delivery so there was no reason not to start work now.Below the cabin, was just supply rooms, the main tool room, that kind of thing.Nothing mechanical or vital, but the one redeeming point was that the supply lines for Wills cabin were right there, as was the drain and sewer line. So, after draining the system and flushing the tanks, Will had the fun job of installing a T fitting into all four, hot and cold, sink and commode.Minnie helped by staying well back, she had nearly been sprayed emptying the tanks a while ago and since them avoided that task.It didn¡¯t really take long but he had to cut and thread the galvanized iron pipe for the waste pipes using lamp wick to seal the joints, and then cut and solder the T into the copper water supplies.Without a handy gas bottle for the soldering he had to use the lamp flame and brass pipe method for heating the joints enough for the solder to hold.Finicky but not bad once you get the hang of blowing the flame on the area you want.But two hours later the bare pipe ends were sticking up in holescut in the boys roughed out head.It was times like this that Will really missed rubber, washers, toilet seals¡­you name it.He was getting by with various mixtures of wax, pine tar and clay as a binder.But he sure missed the simple rubber washer.


    By this time Naomi and Ron had returned from the day out shopping, carts full of treasures.Minnie and Percy helped unload as well as find homes for everything.Ron¡¯s goodies were in two wooden chests, one in the crew lounge by his chair and another beside his bed.Percy was a bit disgruntled, he still hadn¡¯t found a hobby, Will assured him he would find something to do in his spare time, eventually.¡°Well what do you do father?¡±, he asked.¡°I write, stories that I remember from the old world, music, I like to fish but lately my luck is not so great,.Minnie and Naomi play instruments, violin and the penny whistle., Minnie also tinkers in her work room, not sure what all she gets up to.¡±, Will answered.¡°Point is, you¡¯ll find something.It doesn¡¯t have to be what we do, what someone else think you should do, something that brings you joy when you do it.¡±, he continued.The little fellow still didn¡¯t look too happy but time would solve it, besides the gathering crew was coming tomorrow, there would be lots to do then.

 On the Waves Again, I Just Can鈥檛 Wait.

    Chapter 58. On the Waves Again, I Just Can¡¯t Wait.


    To the far north


    The burrowers had slowly adapted to life in their new home.The caves and dugouts were familiar and this helped, but the environment helped more.With wood closer and much more abundant the families could spend more time living and growing, as compared to a few months ago.The temperature was warmer here, more snow but less ice, the folk hadn¡¯t realized what a difference this was.Now that the winter equinox had come and gone the days were lighter longer, just making things better.The fence around the burrow area was strong and high now, watch posts looking over the compound gave an unparalleled view of the surroundings.In time the fence would be extended as needed, more caverns dug out of the limestone below.Still though there was a concern.The ground shakes had subsided but never really ended.Several families had constructed above ground dwelling¡¯s now rather than the traditional burrows.Rock walls piled high and interlocked, a thatched roof reinforced with solid logs.Harder to build but giving security from possible cave ins.This hadn¡¯t happened yet, but the threat was here and most families were not willing to risk their future on a hope.


    One such family was the Obbs.Katya and Therd were not willing to take any risks with their children and had been one of the first to build the above ground dwelling.The cottage was still partially dug into the ground with the foundations dug 6 feet down, Therd felt that even if there was a bad shake and collapsed the building there would still be a good chance of survival, and being below the frost line meant the cottage was warmer.The older boys of the family were coming and going from the far camps, by the mountains.Tens of days travel from here to there by sled, risky in bad weather, even for these experienced people.Tor had just come home after a arduous trek, he and Arno¡¯s oldest daughter Giselle had been on the trail for the past month, they brought news of the camp.How the herds were doing, any accidents, that sort of thing.¡°Do you get over Jeri?¡±, Katya teased her son.He rolled his eyes, ¡°Mother, Giselle could come back at any time.She¡¯s good friends with Jeri and knows I was just being silly then.The only one that girl will ever be interested in is the captain, even after these months.¡±.His mother sighed ¡°How romantic.¡±.


    ¡°How were the earth shakes near the mountains, they were bad here, but then stopped?¡±, Katya asked.Tor shook his head ¡°They were awful for a while, we couldn¡¯t stay in the caves but had to build shelters outside, caves started collapsing.Then it stopped, moved on maybe?¡±.¡°Well I¡¯m glad it¡¯s over, we can enjoy living again, now tell me more about Giselle.¡± Katya teased.


    Laketowns busy days


    The Rose was a bit of a beehive of activity, crew quarters being readied, supplies stored and menus readied, the boys room construction was nearly done, just needed the head door fitted on.¡°I don¡¯t want to be weird guys but.¡±, Will was addressing the two lads.Sitting on their beds, he was cross legged between them.¡°You do know what a bathroom is, what the toilet and sink are for right, I only ask because the last time I saw you guys you were using a litter box.¡±, how embarrassing he thought but had to ask.Ron nodded and took a sip of his tea, ¡°We just knew all of a sudden, when we were growing still.¡±, he gestured at Percy to continue.¡°We came here as cats, but started changing soon after.Starting to talk, think, stand up.From where he brought us through, then to here was a while, we don¡¯t know how long.But then we just knew things, to wear clothes, and yes father how to use a toilet.¡±. ¡°Even if we didn¡¯t have one¡¯ and had to pee in the bushes.¡± Ron added.There was a knock on the door and when Percy opened it he found a grinning Minnie, ¡°All done your private talkie, about knowing how to pee properly?Dad had to ask me the same thing, don¡¯t worry.I told him I use his shoes, like I always did.¡±.Ron had to laugh hearing that, so did Percy.Will just sighed.


    Now that was out of the way there was another meeting to be had, deciding what role the boys would have on the boat.Ron had decided early on that he was more comfortable belowdeck, helping Naomi with her tasks and duties.Percy had thought to be more on the running of the boat, repairing and maintaining systems, learning to pilot.An assistant and aide to Minnie and Will.So with a little ceremony on the bow, complete with a cake and tea, the two boys were made official third mates of the steamship Rose.Will showed them his palm with the tattoo of a rose etched deep into his skin, Minnie and Naomi held theirs beside his.¡°We¡¯ll have another ceremony after this gathering trip, to bond with the Rose, it¡¯s a tradition now, we would do it now, but I¡¯m not sure how you¡¯ll react.¡±, Will said, ¡°Minnie and I passed out, I woke up pretty quickly but Min was out for a while, Naomi stayed awake but was tired for a few days. So we¡¯ll wait.¡±.


    Travis had dropped off the sleeping bags and had a tour of the boat.What seemed so small on the waters was massive up close.The broad sweeping main deck, with various benches and tool boxes, storage lockers and so on, then below to the quarters, galley and mess,then the lowest deck.The engine and boiler room, coal bunker, and the cavernous fore and aft holds.Supply and tool rooms, cold weather gear storage, emergency supplies and more.¡°Thank you captain, I never went on a voyage and I¡¯m getting on, feeling nervous getting near but I loved to see all this while I still could.I hope the bags work out, I have the next batch ready when you return.¡±.Naomi saw him up and out, escorted down the quay to his wagon and she returned quickly.¡°That was okay, wasn¡¯t it dad, that I asked him to make more sleeping sacks?¡±, she asked.Will nodded ¡°Yup, you¡¯re in charge of this, if you want them made her and not Newton that¡¯s fine with me.¡±.Minnie had a thought then, ¡°Hey did you find out if that equipment is here, the piling driver?You were going to ask Stephen.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Nope, completely forgot.Maybe we¡¯ll go to the tavern for a meal tonight, he¡¯ll probably be there.Regina might know too, how does that sound?¡±.The consensus was overwhelmingly yes, so a few more things were going to be finished off, them cleanup and out.


    Will finished hanging the facility door on the hinges and tested the fit, straight and true and shut well without binding.He had built a closet area on the side of the small water closet, for any kind of storage they might need, and looking over his handiwork he patted the hull of the boat, ¡°Did the best I could sweetheart.¡±.Packing up his hand tools and cleaning up a bit of shavings and dust he exited the small room.Walking down the corridor on the mid deck he could see into the gathering crew quarters.The bunks neatly made up with the sleeping bags resting on top of the sturdy mattresses.Should save us some work, it was getting a bit much washing all that bedding, he thought.Checking the radiator valves were open, in case of cooler weather, Will did a final check, yup this rooms ready.Taking a look at the identical room across the corridor he did the same in opening the radiators up as well.The galley was fairly bursting with supplies, the larder and pantries full as can be.¡°Just need the fresh stuff, we¡¯ll get that when we get the kiddies though.¡±, the words made him jump a bit.He hadn¡¯t noticed Naomi come in behind him.¡°Oh yeah.¡±, he nodded after recovering, ¡°This could be a longer trip.¡±.He looked at the calendar, today was January the fourth, ¡°We¡¯ll take tomorrow off, it¡¯s part of the weekend anyway, and leave on Monday.Sound good?¡±.She nodded ¡°Fine with me, I¡¯d rather be on the water anyway, I don¡¯t like the feel of dry land too much anymore.¡±.Truth be told, Will felt the same way.When they were on deep water everything just felt better, he slept sounder too and had a better appetite.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Wandering around the boat he was looking for everyone, he knew where Naomi was but had no clue where Minnie and the boys were.No one on the lounge, he knew their cabin was empty, his and Minnie¡¯s were clear too.Lower deck was the same, engine room was empty, storage and workrooms, nothing.Must all be upon deck, doing what though?Climbing up the stairs to the deck he could finally hear voices, coming from the bow.¡°When you cast you have to flip this thing back, hold it with your thumb then release it casting forward, like this.¡±, Minnie said.Walking quietly he saw all three standing near the bow, rods in hand.They were practicing casting, and looking pretty good.He was just hanging back, looking at his little family when it happened.Percy made a mighty cast but forgot to let go of the line and followed the lure into the lake. ¡°¡±Eeeeeeek.¡± came a high pitched scream followed by splashing and gurgling.Minnie was off and into the water like a shot, seconds later Percy was tossed back on the deck like a wet bag of fur.He landed on his feet and looked around in shock.Will was happy to see he was wearing his lifebelt, Minnie popped back on board beside the drenched little guy.¡°You have to remember to let go of the line or that happens.¡±, she said kindly.Will couldn¡¯t help it, his stifled laugh broke out.Ron joined in, even as he handed his angry brother a towel to wrap around.A clatter of feet behind announced Naomi¡¯s arrival, ¡°Dad, what did you do to Percy?¡±.¡°Wasn¡¯t me.¡±, he laughed, ¡°Total accident, someone forgot to let go while casting.¡±.¡°Oh, well we¡¯ve all done that.Remember Minnie?¡±, she said.¡°Nope, no idea what you talking about, nothing happened, wasn¡¯t me it ever did.¡±, Minnie countered.


    After drying his fur, and getting into dry clothes the fishing lessons started up again.As they sat or stood by the rail casting away the two boys were getting the hang of things.Wills luck was getting better, he had caught and released a couple of little guys, Minnie had done the same but hers were a better size, same with Naomi.Ron let out a squeak of excitement and was fumbling with his rod as a fish bit his lure and bit hard, then started pulling hard.¡°What do I do, just pull and pull?¡±, he screeched.Will held the rod steady, for just a moment, ¡°Crank the reel, pull up a little, then crank and pull until you see the fish in the water, then we¡¯ll scoop it with a net.¡±.At that same time Percy had also had a bite and it was a strong one, the rod pulled and shook in his little arms.Naomi went to help him, just a bit though.He was bracing his foot on the rail and hauling back on the rod as hard as he could.¡°Wonder if it¡¯s a sea monster?¡±, Minnie asked helpfully.Will shrugged ¡°Might be one of those huge sharps, remember?The ones that tried to eat us up north.¡±.The look on the little guys face was amusing, but Will knew it was nothing of the sort, he had seen the silver floater threshing in the water.Ron had brought his in, a good sized floater.Holding it proudly.Percy finally managed to bring his close and Minnie snapped it with the net.¡°Wow, that¡¯s a big fish Perce, nice catch!¡±, she said admiringly.Nearly as tall as he was and fat.¡°Do you see it, I caught it Ron, my fish is bigger, hahaha I got one.¡±, he was dancing around with glee.¡°Good job boys,we can keep them for dinner if you like, have fish and chips.¡±, Will asked.¡°Yeah let¡¯s do that guys, eat their first catch, with nummy chips.¡± Minnie answered for them.And it was decided, the others started fishing a little more seriously, needed more fish.Will didn¡¯t bother, he had more fun watching his little family having a great time.And someone had to clean them, might as well be him.


    The fish bucket had filled fast and after an hour they had plenty for dinner, probably enough for third helpings for all, and that was fine by Will.While he was waiting for more fish,he had cleaned and prepped the grill.Fresh wood instead of charcoal, big pot of oil clamped to the burner besides, batter mixed, two big cast iron pans for the fish ready to go.A mountain of chips had started frying to golden delights, battered fish doing the same.Minnie and Naomi had dashed below for plates and silverware.Ron and Percy were still practicing casting, but that turned into a mess around splash game that no one won.Looked like it was a bath night tonight.


    The sun was dropping fast, even though it wasn¡¯t cold here the days were still shorter than the endless summer ones.Will lit the bow lamp and pulled his sweater on, his Christmas present.Ron had been sitting close, sorting through some floss for his first attempt.He sniffed at Will sweater, ¡°Smells nice, like sheepy, saw them before when we first came here.¡±.Dinner being ready he asked Ron to ring the dinner bell, everyone had kind of scattered to wash off fishing goo.Ringing the bell with glee the missing crew stampeded on deck, apparently starving now.Filling plates and settling to eat took a few minutes.¡°One of my favourites you know, along with shrimpies, I love them the most I think.¡±, Minnie said through a mouthful of fish.¡°What are shrimpies?¡±, Percy asked.¡°Little slimy sea bugs, we catch them a couple of times a year, good spot a few hundred miles from here.¡±, Will answered.¡°Sea bugs, are they crunchy, cause I likes a crunchy bug now and then.¡±, Percy said as Naomi looked at him in horror.¡°We fry them in butter, or deep fry in batter, or boiled and cold with spicy sauce.¡±, Minnie replied.Will had a question for the boys, ¡°Can you tell me anything about the person who brought you here?Elaith is how I know him, did he give you a name?¡±.¡°No, we weren¡¯t really us then, he was nice though, smelled good too, like tea.¡±, Ron answered, his voice soothed by a cuppa.Percy went on, he was resting between his second helping anyway, ¡°One minute we were nosing around, smelling you and Minnie, then he was there and we were different.He asked what we were doing, told him looking for you and he brought us to this place.¡±, he took a sip of his milk.Then went on ¡°It was nicer here, where we came from it was so cold, and we were so hungry all the time, but he just snapped his fingers and there was no snow anymore or ice, our feet hurt all the time, and my ears were sore.¡±.He was getting a bit upset and Minnie sat beside him and put her arm over his shoulder, ¡°You¡¯re safe now little bro, never gonna be hungry like that again .¡±.¡°That¡¯s right, you guys are home now, and forever.¡±, Will said, raising his glass, ¡°To Elaith, wherever you are, whatever you are, thank you for bringing our family here, and thanks again for the life you gave to Minnie and I.Cheers!¡±.


    In a place that is not on any map


    A certain being felt a thought coming to a facet of their mind, a facet they had developed to enjoin with anyone lesser than them, and to be honest, every other person in existence was a lesser being.But immortality gave him/it/she/them an appreciation for everything and was grateful to beremembered/worshipped/thought of in a nice manner.


    Their evening continued on, the fish and chips a fond memory now.Naomi and Will had whipped up some sticky gingerbread and that too was disappearing fast.They had tried cards but were too full to concentrate and were now just sitting, watching the stars.Leftovers and scraps had gone over the side to feed the fishies and the dishes were quickly done.Will was pointing out various constellations that really only made sense to Minnie, their navigation skill was tied to the stars.Naomi had a bit of the talent but hadn¡¯t developed it too much and to the two others the stars were just a beautiful mishmash.They were both dozing in the comfortable chairs and eventually Will picked up Ron¡¯s limp form and Naomi carried tiny Percy.Carrying them down to their warm bedroom he tucked them into bed, ¡°You¡¯re safe and sound here my boys, never going to be hungry or cold, here your loved.¡±, he murmured as he looked at their sleeping forms.¡°They¡¯re gonna be lots of fun dad, wonder what they¡¯ll be when they grow up.¡±, Minnie asked as they readied for bed.¡°I think there¡¯s a lot of growing coming soon.¡±, Will answered as he hit the head.Coming out he saw Minnie was sitting on the bed with a blank look, checking her Menu apparently.Hmmm, Will thought and clicked that mental switch.


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 41/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 48/50


    Stamina 48/50


    Affinitiesfor gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboatRose


    Minnie Harris


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Intelligence 22/25


    Strength 24/25


    Vitality 24/25


    Stamina 24/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry,mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    *The tinker skill has been upgraded*


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 38/50


    Strength 43/50


    Vitality 40/50


    Stamina 44/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Ron Harris


    Was once a cat, changing from day to day.


    Affinities for needlework and tailoring.


    Third mate of the heartboat Rose


    No skills.


    Percy Harris


    Was once a cat, changing from day to day.


    Affinities for gardening.


    Third mate of the heartboat Rose


    No skills.


    ¡°Hey, I got your last name finally, like officially from the menu thing, the boyos too, nice huh.¡±, Minnie chortled happily.Yes, it was pretty nice indeed.

 Last Day Off in a While

    Chapter 59. Last Day Off in a While


    The morning dawned fresh and clear, Will was sitting on deck with a mug of the special tea.Spiralling up from the cupo were the most amazing aromas, he couldn¡¯t even find the words to describe them, but he sure enjoyed the tea.The sun was rising, lifting and blowing the night clouds to nothingness, stars fading and lifting the gloom on the boat.¡°Ahh the best time of day indeed.¡±, he muttered.¡°You said that about sunset last night though.¡±.Will nearly jumped over the side at Minnie¡¯s voice beside him.Sitting up on the rail swinging her feet over the cool water below, she smiled up him, ¡°Morning.¡±.How was she doing this, sneaking so easily around him?Those thoughts were quickly tossed from his mind as a sudden gust started whipping the water up so much that the Rose rocked back violently for a moment, then all was clear again.¡°That was weird, felt like when we bouncing around a while ago.¡±, Minnie said, now standing on the deck beside him.¡°Yeah it did, it was always windy there though, dunno it that¡¯s part of it.¡±, Will answered.¡°But now I need another cuppa, this one went for a swim.¡±.


    Going into the galley they found a yawning Naomi, woken by the boats antics.¡°We in one piece?¡±, she asked.The kettle was on again, and starting to sing.Minnie nodded at her ¡°Another weird bump thing, got really windy then nothing.¡±.She had poured a pan of milk and was warming it on the hob.¡°Any movement from the boys yet?¡±, Will asked, finally pouring another tea, regular this time though.The other two shook their heads, ¡°Nope.¡±, Minnie said, ¡°I listened at their door and could only hear breathing.¡±.Hmmm, Will thought, still early though.¡°Well, we got everything ready yesterday, for the crew.So todays our last day off, easy day then.¡± he mused, blowing on his cuppa.Naomi was all for that, when the teens arrived her life got much busier.All of theirs did, but being belowdecks more, she dealt with the kiddies nearly twenty four hours a day.


    Minnie noticed Will had his notebook open and was doodling quite intently, working on something.She casually sat across from him but couldn¡¯t see well, then sat on the table next to his book.Craning her head around until it was beside his own, she had a look.¡°Yes, interested are you?¡±, he asked with a snort of laughter.She might have thought she was being sneaky, but when someone nearly climbs on top of you it¡¯s kinda obvious.¡°Just wondering, it¡¯s not a secret is it, cause that¡¯s over for a few months, then we can start again, but wha ya doing?¡±, Minnie asked curiously.¡°I¡¯ve been making notes of the weather, the earth shakes, weird waves and so on.Trying to see if there¡¯s a pattern, but nothing so far.¡±, he answered.¡°Is it dangerous for us, or the shore people?Is it those tsunamis we were talking about before?¡±, Naomi looked worried.Will sighed, ¡°There¡¯s just no way to predict when it could happen, if it¡¯s going to happen, nothing to be done really, maybe mention to start coast watching.¡±. ¡°Have waves hit here before, bad waves and why would this be happening now?¡±, Minnie asked Naomi.She shrugged ¡°We don¡¯t really pay much attention to the water anymore, only when the Rose is here.There¡¯s been big waves washing ashore before but we don¡¯t build too close to shore.¡±.¡°We noticed that, just the dock here by the water.¡±, Will was interrupted by calls from the cabin down the corridor, ¡°Hello, is anyone around, hello, are you still sleeping, hellloooooo?¡±.¡°Sounds like Percy¡¯s awake.¡±, Minnie laughed.


    Will went to see what was up today, not really expecting any big changes in the lads.But then again, he thought, walking down the corridor towards the cabin section, I don¡¯t really have any guide to this.A small head was peering around the door frame, ¡°Hey Percy, morning morning.How¡¯s my little lad today?¡±, as soon as the words left his mouth he saw he had been a bit wrong.Percy had finally grown comparable to Minnie and Ron.They weren¡¯t tall by any means but at least three and a half feet, to four in Minnie¡¯s case.¡°Look at me, I¡¯m huge father, just huge.¡±, he was so happy he was jumping around their cabin.Ron was just lounging on his bed, awake but still in that blinky just woke up stage, bright coloured quilt tucked under his chin.¡°Mind if I come in?¡±, Will asked.Percy gaped at him, ¡°It¡¯s your boat, you don¡¯t have to ask.¡±.Will laughed ¡°This is your space, of course I have to ask.¡±.Percy grabbed his hand and dragged him in, ¡°Then yes, come in come in.Mark my height on the door.¡±.He pointed to the door frame where several marks were, each on the side the beds were on.Handing Will a stub of pencil he stood proudly while his mark was made, ¡°Look Ronny, nearly as tall as you, not as fat though.¡±, he crowed happily.Will smiled down at the happy little man ¡°You know, it might have been the lake water yesterday, when you fell in, made you grow.¡±.Well, that made him stop for a moment.¡°You think so?¡±, he asked.Will nodded, ¡°I do in, in fact, Hey Minnie, Minnie, go get a bucket of nice cold lake water, let¡¯s give these guys a good splashing.¡±.Percy and Ron both were looking at him in horror and when they heard Minnie¡¯s voice with a cheery ¡°Okay dad, be right there.¡±, they both darted out of the room in a flurry of bedsheets.He heard Naomi squawk with laughter as they went to hide in the galley.


    Settling down for breakfast, a light one today, toast and of course jams.Will was delighted to find a few jars of marmalade had been sent with the resupply wagons, along with the regular strawberry and raspberry.After several pieces of thick buttered toast liberally slathered with marmalade he asked what everyone was doing, or planned anyway.¡°Well what are you doing dad, cause I usually do that too.¡±, Minnie answered first.Good point, ¡°I¡¯m going to find Stephen, got a couple of things to ask about.¡±, Will answered.Naomi was going to spend a bit of time with her sister, Percy asked if he could tidy the tool room and parts storage, because it was a terrible mess.He didn¡¯t think it was that bad but Will told him to go ahead, Ron whispered that he was going back to bed and cuddle his pillow.¡°There we go, day planned.Now just one more cuppa and I¡¯ll be off, anyone else?¡±, Will asked, holding out the teapot.Ron held out his mug, Minnie sadly shook her head.


    Before he and Minnie left Will had to make sure the boys could be alone on the water, they had lived in the dock for weeks but that was very close to shore.With Minnie at lands end and him at the Rose he asked them to walk back and forth a few times, away from their influence.They appeared to be okay, no urge to jump in the water and swim away.He was still a bit nervous so Naomi volunteered to stay with the boat until he and Minnie returned.¡°Thanks sweetie, I just¡­¡±, he started.¡°I know, it¡¯s fine.I¡¯m in no hurry.¡±, she laughed.But when Percy and Ron found out they were going to poke around the various warehouses and storage of Laketown they were excited to go with.¡°Of course you can, I don¡¯t think we¡¯ll need a cart this time, will we?¡±, he asked.They both shook their head, ¡°We won¡¯t get so tired this time.¡±.Will hoped this wouldn¡¯t be ¡®famous last words¡¯, but off they went, cartless and care free.


    A fine day, and considering how warm it was Will was having to think about where they were.If this world really was an analog of their old world, or something different, yet the same.The temperature was easily in the low seventies, so it couldn¡¯t be the upper west coast.That area was nowhere near as warm as this, at this time of year anyway.The walk to the bakery took twenty minutes or so, continually stopping to look at this store, that kiosk, chat with passersby.But when they did finally get there word of the crew in the town had spread and Stephen came out to meet them.¡°Well well, so finally come in the daytime hmmm?¡±, he joked with Percy and Ron. It¡¯s of the boys had met him before so they knew he was just joking.Minnie was examining the glass display case with glee, where all the most delectable cakes and tarts were kept.When the clerk asked if she wanted anything today, she broke into a smile.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    ¡°Now let¡¯s see, I¡¯ll take three of those strawberry cream things, all of those iced little yellow guys, Ron¡­hey, you want anything, how about you Perce?Yeah we¡¯ll take a few of those thick donut things too, and maybe two pies, that yummy apple one and the rhubarb strawberry guy, in the back there.Yup, that¡¯s the one, should be enough for now.Hey dad, we¡¯re gonna go eat out in the garden k?¡±, and with her order of baked yummies the three went to sit at a table in the small bakery garden.¡°So, what can I do for you Will, cheese buns maybe or a fresh rye loaf, just came out of the oven.¡±, Stephen asked.Will held up a hand with a smile, ¡°No thanks, well actually yeah, those cheese buns look amazing, but I did have another question.¡±, he replied.Stephen was packing up a dozen of the fresh buns, looked over¡°What¡¯s up my friend?¡±.


    ¡°When the quay was built, what happened to the piling driver, it¡¯s not in Newton, and I thought it might be stored here.¡±, Will asked.Stephen stopped packaging up the loaves and thought for a moment.¡°It¡¯s been a long while since I thought of that, I mean the quay and dock were built long before me.But my great grandfather helped with the construction, he told my father the story¡¯s.¡±.Will nodded ¡°Must have been a huge job, hard on the builders.¡±.¡°Oh it was, I think some were taken by the waters.But the equipment, what would have become of it I wonder.¡±, Stephen mused.¡°Bob!¡±, he called out, ¡°Bob¡­where is he, Bob!¡±.A young man came running in the front door, ¡°Sorry uncle, I¡¯m running a bit behind on deliveries.¡±.Stephen waved his hand at him, ¡°Never mind that for now, go get a cart and get back here, we¡¯re going exploring.¡±.The young man ran out again, it seemed to be the only speed he had.A few minutes later he drove up in a small cart, not a hauler but with several comfy seats.¡°You driving uncle?¡±, Bob asked as the group met him.Stephen nodded, ¡°Oh yeah, I don¡¯t get out enough, let aunty know I¡¯ll be back.¡±.Minnie smirked at Will hearing him say that, ¡°He¡¯ll be back.¡±.Gathering up the sticky third mates who had managed to eat all the donuts by now and the iced cakes, they all piled into the carriage and trotted off down the Main Street.¡°We¡¯ll check the warehouses nearer the water first, then work our way out.¡±, Stephen said, over the clatter of hooves and the rattle of wheels.Minnie looked decidedly curdled over spending time near the horses, Will knew she didn¡¯t think much of this type of travelling, ¡°It¡¯s quicker than walking you know, and we might be at this a while.¡±, he said as they hit a particularly vicious bump.¡°Oh I know,¡± she gritted out, ¡°But horses are kinda bleargh, they smell bad, they¡¯re dumb, and too tall.¡±.Percy was hanging on to the edge of his seat, it looked like he shared Minnie¡¯s feelings.Ron however was sitting beside Will and Stephen and it appeared he was enjoying the ride very much.


    They reached the warehouse area soon, tied off the horse and went inside the oldest looking building first.Mostly filled with broken wagons, carts, old tack hanging on the walls but not what they were looking for.The day waned on, as they searched warehouses, sheds, outbuildings and found nothing.The boys did enjoy scampering around the old places, it was here they had searched for a place of their own when arriving.The search moved from the town to the farms and orchards closer to but still nothing.¡°Well, it looks like we¡¯ll have to construct our own.¡±, Will finally admitted after six hours of fruitless searching.¡°Sorry captain, I thought for sure we would find it, such a big piece should be hard to miss..¡±, Stephen said.¡°It shouldn¡¯t be that hard to carve the driver head, just need a nice big stone, really big though.¡± Will replied.¡°The frame won¡¯t be difficult to construct but we can¡¯t make it on the Rose, those support beams are too long for us to carry.¡±, Minnie added.She was sitting with the lads, having a cool drink of apple juice, from a friendly farmer.Sitting on a big rock, a really big flat rock, a really big heavy carved rock.¡°Uh, hey dad.¡±, she called as she noticed,


    A few minutes later the remains of the retaining frame had been located as well, however they were not salvageable.¡°They weren¡¯t made of ironwood,just oak, couldn¡¯t last the years lying here.¡±, Stephen remarked.¡°I¡¯m not familiar with ironwood, is it common, will we be able to find some when we leave tomorrow?¡±, Will asked.¡°I hope so, that¡¯s what the pilings are, last forever in the waters, second only to heartwood.But there was ever only one of those.¡±, Stephen answered him.Hmmm, thought Will, maybe not, but said nothing.¡°So we¡¯re going to need at least thirty ironwood¡¯s to be able to build another quay.¡±, Will said to Minnie.¡°Well, we can bring this back to the dock, then build a frame that will fit on a barge, that''s the easy part.¡±, Minnie replied.Stephen looked at the huge piece of granite, he couldn¡¯t imagine how much it weighed but by how deep it had sunk in the ground it must be considerable.¡°I¡¯ll get a team out here, and one of our toughest carts, probably needa crane or something to lift¡­¡±, he stopped in mid sentence as Will slipped his fingers under the side and he and Minnie lifted the immense block, first on its side, then off of the ground completely.¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty heavy.Five hundred pounds if it¡¯s an ounce, probably lighter if you two clowns would jump down.¡±, Will pointed at Percy and Ron who were still perched on the block, examining it in detail.They hopped down, Ron pointed at indents on the sidestep seemingly carved, Minnie nodded ¡°He figures that¡¯s how it¡¯s held and lifted, can you imagine if it dropped in the deep though?¡±.Will ran his hand over the surface, thick dirt had dried and crusted over the years but he did find another indentation, poking at it with his pocket knife he found it went all the way through, ¡°Aha, run a chain through here, safety line.¡±.Stephen looked at the sun, Will at his watch, ¡°Getting kinda late, shall we pick this up tomorrow,?¡±, Stephen asked.¡°No need, we know where it is, we don¡¯t need it for a few months.It¡¯s fine here.¡±, Will answered.¡°Can we go home and get some dinner, pretty hungry we are.¡±, Percy asked plaintively.¡°A very good idea, me too.¡±, Stephen laughed.Piling back into the carriage it was top speed back to Laketown and hopefully supper.


    Naomi had visited with her sister most of the day, and now it was coming on to early evening, ¡°Where are those guys, gone all day and not a word.¡±.Regina shrugged, they were sitting at the crews usual table in the tavern.¡°If they were searching the town it could take a while, and then the area¡­lots of places to look, things get forgotten over the years.¡±.A clatter of hoofs and wheels, whoops of joy and maniacal laughter came through the taverns open doors.¡°Oh there they are.¡±, Naomi laughed.And in the door tumbled all the missing crew members, wind blown, sunburned and dusty.¡°Hey sweetie, hi sis, hello hello,¡±, they greeted her.Regina had to laugh as well as the ragtag bunch came in, Percy riding on Minnie¡¯s shoulders and Ron on Wills.The two new crewmen looked so tired and so hungry that Regina beckoned one of her servers over and asked her to start bringing out todays special.Thick sausages sputtering in the pans, golden buttery fried potatoes, Brussels sprouts fried in mustard and syrup and of course Stephens cheese buns.The sight of the food brought cheers from the hungry bunch and without much fuss started devouring.


    Naomi joined in and once the edge had been taken off their hunger Will started letting her know of their day¡¯s adventure.¡°So you did find the thing, the pile driver is it?¡±, she asked.Will nodded, ¡°Minnie found it, just the pounding head survived though,.We¡¯ll have to build a new frame and so on, but not yet.After the gathering trip.¡±.¡°Yeah but we need those logs, the ironwoods, thirty or more big ones for the dock pilings, don¡¯t forget.¡±, Minnie added.¡°The children are looking forward to going, at least the older ones are.Some of the younger are a bit annoyed you changed the age, but the parents are glad.¡± Regina said.¡°I missed the choosing didn¡¯t I, darn it, I always enjoy that.¡±, Stephen sighed, ¡°But fourteen summers is good, older and wiser.¡±.¡°These are good sausages dad, and the guys seem to really like them.¡±, Minnie said to Will.¡°They sure are, let¡¯s remember to get a bunch of these on our supply wagon tomorrow.¡±, he replied.


    Seeing that the lads had finished and were nearly asleep beside him it was time to pack up and head for the Rose.A busy day tomorrow.

 Prepare to Log in

    Chapter 60. Prepare to Log in


    They had arrived back at the boat quite late last evening so it was straight to bed for most of them, Will had to do his usual check but afterwards went to his cabin.Minnie was already in bed looking very cosy and warm, ¡°Everything good for the night?¡±, how well she knew him.¡°Yup, all secure and safe.Looking forward to tomorrow?¡±, She nodded, ¡°Oh yeah, lots of fun with the youngsters, and nice hard work, I get kinda bored sometimes you know?¡±.¡°Me too sweetie, me too.¡±.Hitting the head, changing in to his sleep clothes he was getting bleary indeed.If needed he could go for a couple of days without rest, but that needed to be pushed.Normally a day like today was enough to guarantee a goods night sleep.Slipping under the warm covers, feeling that heavy quilt was very comfortable.Finding Minnie¡¯s hand reaching for his own he fell into that place, the one just before the nothingness of a dreamless sleep.A feeling of utter contentment came over him and he was gone.Next thing he knew was a hand patting his arm.


    ¡°Father, father, are you awake?¡±, it was Percy.¡° I am now, what¡¯s up?¡±, he whispered.¡°I¡­I had a bad dream.Can I sleep in with you, just for a minute, I didn¡¯t want to bother you, but Ron was snoring and I didn¡¯t want to wake him either,¡±.He could tell the little guy was very upset and felt/heard that tears were close.¡°Come here.¡±, and he lifted him up and over and placed him between Minnie and himself.¡°There we are, all safe and sound now.¡±, he rested his arm over the small figure and was happy to hear his breathing slow down into sleep in just a few minutes.Not long after he fell asleep again as well.The next time he woke it was still dark, but something had changed, in the air, maybe the weather.Sighing he quickly threw on a robe and left the cabin as quietly as he could.Closing his door he was surprised by Naomi in the open doorway to her cabin, ¡°Did you feel that too dad?¡±.¡°Yeah, but I don¡¯t know what it was that woke me up, just something had changed.Going up on deck.¡±, he yawned.¡°I¡¯ll come along too, it was a weird feeling.¡±.Climbing the stairs up to the deck and cracking open the door, Will didn¡¯t really know what to expect.Heavy snow, or ice, maybe rain and high winds.But there was nothing, just the glorious stars sweeping over their heads.He checked the dock lines, davits, everything was secure.The village was dark and quiet, no lights in windows.The Rose was just rocking gently, nothing crazy, in fact nothing at all was happening.They sat for a moment, just sitting and looking at the heavens, an occasional shooting star was flitting over for a second or two.¡°Well I dunno what it was, but I¡¯m back to bed.¡±, he muttered. ¡°Me too, it¡¯s pretty late.¡±, Naomi agreed.Headed back down, a whispered good night and Will was climbing back into his still warm bed.Minnie opened an eye, ¡°Everything okay?¡±.He should have known she¡¯d pick up on it too, but noticed Percy was clutching her hands in his sleep.¡°It¡¯s all good, just a gremlin I guess¡±, he whispered back.And quickly fell back to sleep.


    Next time he woke light was streaming in the open porthole, the wind was whistling in and through the cabin, bring those wonderful scents.Salt and sun baked wood, tar and fish, just all the smells of their life.Minnie and Percy were gone but there was still a bit of warmth left so it hadn¡¯t been long at all.Today was a busy day so he had a good wash, shave and clean work clothes on.Prepared to face his day he entered the mess to find all hands present and looking good.Naomi popped her head out of the galley, ¡°Morning dad.¡±, the others three had their heads together, plotting maybe.But when they noticed Will was there they greeted him happily, ¡°Hi dad, morning father.¡±, a wave from Ron.There appeared to be no changes to the lads this morning so it seemed they might have settled now, perhaps a slight refinement in the face.Not so catlike maybe, he pondered.Percy seemed to still be complaining that he wasn¡¯t taller than Ron, ¡°I could get a bucket of nice fresh lake water, splashy splashy, make you grow!¡±, Minnie asked him.¡°No thank you.¡±, Percy answered, not sure if she was serious .


    Oatmeal today, with bacon of course.It seemed the two new recruits hadn¡¯t had porridge before and were not sure about it.The bacon, well that went down no problem,.The oatmeal was another story.Minnie liked hers thin, more gruel like with syrup, Naomi¡¯s was thicker but still had syrup.Will like his thick with a tiny dollop of jam.Ron was fascinated with dropping it from spoon to bowl with a plopping sound, but did eventually have it the same as Naomi¡¯s.Percy however liked it thin, and dipped his bacon in, to Minnies horror.Will had his usual strong sweet tea, Naomi and Ron joined him in enjoying it too. But the other two had warmed up apple juice, ¡°I dunno dad, it¡¯s like Perce says, I can taste and smell the dirt and the plant bits and the bug poop, it¡¯s just so ewww.¡±, Minnie informed Will.He took a big drink and smacked his lips with delight, ¡°Busy day for us, supply wagons coming with extras for the gatherers.Gotta check their coal equipment, boots and stuff.Then we have to make sure saws, axes, hooks, wedges and so on are sharpened, I think Minnie and I¡¯ll do that, it¡¯s pretty dangerous.¡°We have to plan the route too,¡±, Minnie added, ¡°We¡¯ve gathered here a few times, but I don¡¯t remember if there were much trees near the coal shore.¡±.¡°Don¡¯t forget we have to pull the barges offshore too dad.¡±, Naomi said, ¡°That¡¯s a new thing for Laketown, pretty proud of them too.¡±.Will laughed ¡°Yup busy busy.First thing we¡¯ll pull them both out and anchor them, easier to pick up when we get going.¡±.Minnie was excited hearing that, ¡°Yay, so much fun jumping to them, don¡¯t trip sis.¡±.Seeing everyone had finished up Ron started clearing the table andwashing dishes, Will lent a hand and in a few minutes the galley was sparkling.Minnie had gone to start the boiler, Naomi was figuring where to stick the extra supplies.¡°Even with my management skill it¡¯s pretty tough to put it all away, especially the fresh stuff.¡±, she sighed.


    Getting out on deck you couldn¡¯t ask for a better day, water nice and smooth, just a bit of a heave.Not much wind, blue sky and warm sun, yeah, thought Will, lower west coast for sure.Minnie popped up on deck, trailed by Percy, who was asking what the gauges on the boiler represented.She was telling him about psi, boiling temperatures, water purification, scaling and how bad it could be.¡°All ready to go pop, boilers up.¡±, she told him on the way to the wheelhouse.¡°Okay, I¡¯ll untie and you take us out.¡±, Will replied.He hopped to the dock and waited for her to signal on the whistle and untied fore and aft lines, gave the Rose a mighty shove and jumped aboard.Minnie pulled away and started the Rose heading to the beach where the barges had been constructed.The beach was sand and mud where the two brand new barges rested, having been built right there.There was a good drop off seven or eight yards from shore so Minnie could get the boat quite close, one of the reasons this spot was chosen.Will rowed over bring a tow line with him and connected to the first.The Rose turned until her stern was to shore and started pulling the barge into the deeper water.Unwilling to move at first, it took Will braced on a rocky point and shoving the barge with all his considerable strength.It moved a few feet, then a few more until it finally dipped into the water and was finally floating.Minnie towed the first out further and slowed to a crawl while Naomi leaped the few feet and pulled the tow line off and dropped the anchors.She jumped back as the Rose passed by at dead slow and Minnie steered for shore to get the next.The second was hooked up much the same but was refusing to move, stuck not on friction alone.More mud under this one had created a suction effect and it was not budging.Will managed to get a beam under the hull and using a boulder as a pivot point, broke the suction and it finally slid out to sea.There was a cheering behind Will and, turning, he noticed quite a crowd had gathered.Giving a friendly wave he stepped back into his small boat and shot towards the Rose.The second was anchored a good distance from the first and the Rose steamed back to the quay, waiting for the wagons and the crew.


    ¡°Time for a cuppa I think.¡±, Will stated when they were docked.Percy and Ron had been poking around the deck, exploring the wheelhouse, generally finding their way around.Spying the grill and smoker on the bow Ron seemed quite excited to be able to cook outside, ¡°Seems like a lot of work, and there¡¯s a perfectly good galley downstairs you know.¡±, Percy whispered to him.Will had gone below to make his tea and arrived back on deck with a nice hot mug for himself and one for Ron.Just sitting and enjoying the tea and biscuits before getting to the other chores.


    Will and Minnie sought out the logging equipment.He knew it was in a certain storeroom as he had inventoried it months ago, but wasn¡¯t sure of the shape it was in.It was where he thought it was, but in rougher shape than he liked.Dull and rusty were too words that sprang to mind, ¡°Old and crappy are two more.¡±, Minnie grumbled.After a couple of hours however, the axes had been filed sharp again, so had the crosscut saws.Long two person ones.Naomi had set Percy and Ron checking the gathering supplies and bringing up the coveralls out of storage.Checking boot laces, gloves for holes, hats weren¡¯t moth eaten, the straps on the canvas bags and a dozen other details.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Minnie and Naomi were having a stare contest but there was quite a bit of cheating going on, water being splashed around, things being chucked at each other.Will could see how it was going to end and it surely did, Minnie lost her temper and launched at Naomi, who handily dodged and took off down the quay.Followed by an irate first mate.¡°Are they really mad again?¡±, Percy asked, cowering behind Will.¡°Nope, just having fun.If you watch they¡¯ll end up in the water to cool down in a minute.¡±, Will replied.Sure enough two splashes on the side of the quay and happy shouts and laughter.¡°Is swimming fun dad?¡±, Ron asked, his usual whisper a little better from the strong tea.¡°Oh it¡¯s wonderful my man, we often jump in and have a cool off.After a long day working, or if we¡¯re gathering everyone has a splash around in the shallows.¡±, Will continued.¡°Won¡¯t our fur get all icky and clotted.¡±, Perce asked with a shiver at the thought.¡°Minnie had the same problem at first¡±, Will started, but then was interrupted by the little girl herself, ¡°What problem was that?¡±, she asked.


    All three jumped a bit at her unexpected question.¡°How did you, weren¡¯t you just over¡­never mind.¡±, Will stammered.¡°I was asking if your fur got matted from the water and father said it did at first.¡±, Percy answered for him.Minnie nodded sagely ¡°Yes my young apprentice, back in the old days, way back in the early times, I was a bit of a mess.¡±, then burst out laughing at his gobsmacked expression.¡°I think my fur is shorter and thinner now, still beautiful and shiny, but feels different than it used to, more like the old guys hair, when he used to have it that is.Being in the water changed me, will you too you know, won¡¯t be so stubby, or so¡­round hmmm?¡±.Giving a mighty shake she spattered lake water all over.¡°¡±Hey, hey you guys, the wagons and kids are coming,¡±, Naomi called from the quay.She had been drip drying near the end but came on board now and gave Minnie a shoulder punch, ¡°I still won by the way.¡±.Minnie looked doubtful, ¡°I dunno, we better go again.¡±, she scrunched her eyes up and glared at Naomi.¡°Sorry guys, hate to interrupt but we have to get to work.¡±, Will said, pointing at the incoming horde of teens, parents, what looked like the council, and two overstuffed carts.


    With a whoop Minnie took off down the quay greeting everyone in her high pitched voice, Percy and Ron looked at each other for a moment then scampered after her.Will held his arm out to Naomi ¡°Shall we?¡±, and together they walked a little more sedately towards the crowd.Minnie was already organizing which cart went first and sat up with the massive Owen to escort him. The two lads were sitting on top of the load, just watching all the goings on.Will met the cart, while Naomi continued towards land.¡°Morning captain, beautiful day for a voyage.¡±, the large man said, shaking Wills hand.¡°That is is my friend, that it is.Any family coming with us this time?¡±, Will asked.Owen nodded ¡°Rosie is but not Larry, he¡¯s learning on the wagons now.Dave¡¯s little one Bree¡¯s coming along too, thick as thieves those two are, better watch out.¡±.Will laughed ¡°The more the merrier.¡±.Pulling over a crane he started off loading the skids and nets of supplies, then dropping them on deck.It didn¡¯t take long to empty and then just wait for Owen to leave and Dave to back up, again escorted by Minnie, who was talking a mile a minute to the rather quiet man.Asking about his family, the town, driving a cart, he just answered with nods and shrugs.Again, it only took a few minutes to unload this cart as well and he was on the way back, this time with all the crew catching a ride.


    There were close to a hundred people waiting for the crew to show up at the lands end, and when they dismounted the cart a cheer rose up.¡°Everyone seems more excited usual today.¡±, Minnie whispered to Will.Naomi overheard ¡°It¡¯s the barges, we¡¯re going to be gone much longer, and bring back so much more.¡±.The two new third mates were sticking very close to Will as the people surged and talked over them, to them and it seemed, through them.Noticing the hesitation, they all stepped back a bit, taking advantage of the people¡¯s natural timidity at nearing the water, and gaining a bit of clear space.Stephen also noticed and began his, as he had called it a day ago, speechifying.¡°It¡¯s not that I mind, and my wife always says I can yap on and on about just about anything, but I worry if people get sick of hearing me.¡±, he had explained.¡°Well folks, here we are again.Our children are picking up where we cannot.Sacrificing a couple of weeks and going into what could be dangerous¡­all for the good of our town and people.We trust the good captain and crew with our future, for what else are our children but that.So let¡¯s hear a good cheer for the children, the crew, oh and as importantly the craftsmen and women who worked for months building these barges.Well done everyone, very well done.¡±.As he finished the townsfolk did indeed raise a cheer.


    The twelve teens said their goodbyes to their families, the two older chaperones, Wilbur and Grace, started taking up their duties right away and started herding everyone on to the dock.Minnie handed out the yellow lifebelts that they would all wear for the next couple of weeks, simple tied on over vests with cork in the front and back.Everywhere they went on the boat, above deck, below deck, sleeping, taken off only to wash or when ashore.Will made a point of wearing one, as did Minnie and Naomi.Percy and Ron were already in the habit too.The crews were more of the PFD type and were colour coded now, bright red for Will, Minnie and Naomi.The two lads were had been given yellow at first, but it was a putrid faded yellow that did not go well with their orange fur, especially Percy.So Minnie had relented and given them red as well and, serious for once, had instructed them to always wear them, always.¡°Why don¡¯t you guys wear them too, when it¡¯s just family on board, why just us?¡±, Percy had asked earlier.Will answered that one, ¡°We should, and if the weather worsens we will.But we are all very strong swimmers and could easily catch up to the Rose if we had to, and yes if we did get knocked out and thrown in it could be bad.¡±.Minnie jumped in ¡°We¡¯re pretty tough, a big sharp couldn¡¯t bite dad enough to hurt him when he jumped in to save Naomi, hmm did we tell you about that yet?¡±.Ron shook his head slowly so for the next hour Minnie had regaled the brothers with tales of the sharps, pointing out the gashes in the deck where the huge fish had been killed.


    ¡°So when the gathering crews on board we all wear them, to set a good example.After you learn to swim, and I mean swim well, it will be your decision.But only in good weather, bad weather pops up then on they go.¡±, Will concluded.


    So the teens donned the jackets they were handed and started the walk down the quay towards the Rose.Cries of ¡°Good luck, hurry back, we miss you already.¡±, followed them.Led by Minnie and Naomi you could tell which children had gone before, the old hands were excited to go.The first timers, while just as eager and ready, were noticeably chary of the waters.This was the forbidden zone, the place their parents had warned them of since they could remember.A few had braved the dock at night, a bit of a rite of passage.Who could make it out the furthest, who could scratch their initials on the ironwood pilings.Sneaking out in two or threes, thinking they were rebels, doing what no one had done before.But even the most foolhardy among the towns teens realized one thing, that if there had been any kind of accident, there could be no help.And besides, the fun had gone out of the game for most when the bravest of them had made it halfway out, a crowning achievement, the envy of his peers.He had pulled out his pocketknife to mark his name into the tough wood and discovered his fathers name and his grandfathers scratched there.It had been an eye opener, that the old codgers had been there and done that, long before he was born.Sighing he had made his mark and returned to shore, told his friends what he found and went home.


    So as they walked down the long quay to the waiting ship that would be home for weeks it was a moment these people would remember forever.A growing up moment, one of those times when you realize that the world is much bigger than you thought and you just might not be the centre of it.Reaching the Rose Minnie asked them all to have a seat and started laying down the law as deck boss.What you can¡¯t do, where not to go, that sort of thing.Naomi added her rules and asked for two volunteers to help with kitchen duty, ¡°It¡¯s not easy work, keeping different hours.But there¡¯s seventeen people to feed three meals a day to, not the usual three of us, I mean five of us now.So who would like to be my helpers?¡±.The two girls, Rosie and Bree looked at each other and raised their hands, ¡°We will, our pa¡¯s said to give you a hand if you asked.¡±.


    Will had talked to the parents for a couple of minutes after the others left.He assured them that he and the other crew would take care of the children as if they were their own.He concluded with a cheery ¡°See you all in a couple of weeks.¡±. After a quick word with Stephen about how wonderful his speech had been, they shook hands and started for the boat.He could see Minnie and Naomi had made their usual impression on the kids.Everyone looked eager and ready to go.¡°Okay crew,¡±, he started, ¡°And yes that¡¯s everyone of you from now on.Crew, a funny word but it¡¯s family, friend, matey all rolled into one.For the next while we¡¯re in this together, succeed or fail, it¡¯s on all of us.Some of you have come before, gathering or fishing.This time we¡¯re logging too, more dangerous but your town needs to grow so we do what is asked of us.There¡¯s a bit to do on board, then we leave. So all hands on deck!Let¡¯s go.¡±.

 Cut and Run, Oh What Fun

    Chapter 61. Cut and Run, Oh What Fun


    With all the willing hands the final loads of supplies had been quickly put away.Then it was everyone lined up at the railings to watch Laketown get a little further away as they left dock to pick up the barges.Will was at the helm as Minnie and Naomi prepared to pick up the anchored barges.Going dead slow he passed close to the first and Minnie leaped over the fifteen feet easily, pulled the anchors and tossed the heavy tow rope to Naomi who hooked it over the bollard.Waiting on the now slow moving scow, she again jumped to the second when it was in range.Anchors up and on the tow in a matter of fifteen minutes, then leapfrogged back to the Rose.¡°Such fun, we need like ten more, we could play crazy tag out there.¡±, she laughed.The watching children were in awe of what had just happened, they knew the crew were different from the shore people but this really showed it.


    After checking the barges were towing well, no bits falling off, not going off on a tangent Will increased speed to three quarters and turned the ship until she was on course.No specific location in mind they were simply heading to where they had successfully gathered coal a while ago.From there a decision would be made.Fill one barge with coal, then search for a good logging site.Leaving the coal vessel behind, secure at anchor, or bring it along.Hopefully a nice deep spot could be found close to shore, made it easier to load.Only time would tell.Minnie came in to the wheelhouse to bring a cuppa and a biscuit or three.¡°You know, I was looking at the barges and I wonder how long they¡¯ll last.¡±, he mentioned after thanking her.¡°Whadya mean?¡±, was mumbled through biscuit.¡°I think the lake will eventually destroy the barges, Newton¡¯s and Laketown¡¯s.Only one boat on this ocean, and we¡¯re on it.¡±, Will answered.That gave her something to think about, but couldn¡¯t talk about it right now, Naomi whistled up, needed to round up all the crew.Meeting in the mess apparently, ¡°I¡¯ll fill you in later pop, see you later.¡±, and she was off.Being alone in the wheelhouse was fairly normal, there really wasn¡¯t any need for two or more.


    The belowdeck meeting was about menus, bathing arrangements, meal times, many more do¡¯s and don¡¯ts.It hadn¡¯t taken long and the crew were cut loose, just free time until they reached their destination and began work.Several things were planned for the day, the traditional first day meal for one.Naomi and her two helpers were busy already, when she told them it was a lot of work she wasn¡¯t kidding.¡°One of the most important things we do is make tea and bring it up to the captain, whiles he¡¯s in the wheelhouse that is.¡±, she told the other two, ¡°If Minnie¡¯s up there she doesn¡¯t drink tea, but she likes milk.¡±.The taller girl, Bree, made a face at the thought ¡°Yuck, how does she like milk, it¡¯s all white and oozy.¡±.Her friend laughed ¡°You never liked it, cause you got sprayed once when we were milking the cows at home.¡±.That would do it, Naomi thought.She had been boiling the kettle while letting them know what was to be done, now it sang away and she poured into the teapot.¡°Here you go, up to the captain please, and don¡¯t spill.Oh, put your lifebelt on, he¡¯s very strict on that.¡±.


    Will was writing away, to do things in one notebook, stories in another, maps spread out on the table.Just futzing around while the Rose churned on her way.The side windows were open and a warm breeze was flowing through, ¡°I could sure use a cuppa tight about now.¡±.He was startled by a knock at the door, through the glass he could see one of the teens with a tray.¡°I¡¯m a wizard!¡±.Opening the door he recognized the young girl as Bree, daughter of Dave the quiet wagon driver.¡°Hello captain, Naomi sent this up.She said you were probably thinking about tea right about now.¡±.He took the tray and set it on the map table, ¡°Thank you, and thank Naomi too please¡±.She nodded and left in a rush, either eager to get back to work or terrified to be up here.The waters were smooth so Will tied the wheel in place and sat out on the bow to enjoy his tea.The skies were a bit dark ahead and he could see something was coming,


    Minnie came bouncing up, completely happy it seemed.¡°Hey pop, pretty noisy huh, the lil guys went to lie down for a while, and I told anyone that goes near our end will be in trouble, they¡¯re pretty good kiddies though, looking forward to this I guess, Gracie and Willy are good guys, they got this.¡±, she rambled.¡°Another Willy huh, does he like it or¡­¡±, Will asked her.¡°Nah, he thought it was funny.¡±, she laughed.¡°Do you want me to con for a while, get a break in before¡­¡±, she gestured at the west horizon, the dark clouds had be one a bit more pronounced, ¡°Gonna get a soaking soon yeah?¡±.Will nodded ¡°Sure are, hour or so.A good one I think.Or bad one, depending on who you are.¡±.He gave a stretch, ¡°Yeah I will go down for a while, I¡¯ll let Naomi know to batten down.We might have to find a harbour soon, don¡¯t want to mess around too much with the kids on board.Maybe head closer to shore see what you can find.¡±.She gave a smart salute and climbed up to the wheelhouse to check the course and see if they had any useful maps, doubtful but never hurt to check.Why the previous captains made any helpful maps was a good question, she figured they knew the route so well they didn¡¯t need em.¡°Bunch of weirdos.¡±, she muttered.She looked out the door so make sure the old man made it below safely, it was like he knew she was watching as he turned and waved, what a guy.So going back to the maps she found nothing, looks like going close to shore was the way to look for a safe place.Giving the whistle a toot she spun the wheel and headed in.


    Will heard and felt the course correction, he was changing clothes into something warmer in case of inclement weather, he could feel that was coming too.¡°Yup, I¡¯m a wizard.¡±, he said aloud.Laughing to himself he had a quick wash up, and left in search of Percy and Ron.Knocking on their room there was no answer but he found them in the lounge.¡°Hey guys, how you handling all the extras on board?¡±, Ron shrugged but pointed at Percy who was sitting in his new armchair.¡°All I said was there¡¯s so many of them and they like to touch my fur, it gets messed up easily you know.We¡¯re not all short hairs.¡± Percy answered.Will nodded, ¡°lots of changes, coming faster and faster huh.If it does become too much, just relax in here til you are up to it again.Remember, this is your home now, they¡¯re just visiting.¡±.Percy seemed to cheer up a little and asked where Minnie was, when Will told him she was at the wheel he asked if he could go see her.¡°Of course, but don¡¯t forget your lifebelt, and take your rain gear.It¡¯s going to blow soon.¡±.He looked at the other brother, Ron seemed very comfortable curled in his chair.¡°Not going up huh?¡±.That lad shook his head and stretched ¡°I¡¯ll go help Naomi in a minute or two.¡±, he whispered.


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    Heading that way himself he ran into, literally, several of the teenagers.Coming and going from mess, to quarters, upon the deck, down again.Just exploring it seemed.While not exactly afraid of him, he was given a bit of a wide berth.Finding Naomi is the mess, talking with Wilbur and Grace he let her know they were seeking an anchorage for the duration of the storm.¡°If and when we do I¡¯ll need your help to anchor the barges off.We could keep going, if we don¡¯t find a safe spot we will have to, we¡¯ll see I guess.¡±.The children had been listening and several seemed worried at the thought of a storm.He quickly assured them that they would be fine, but as he spoke the words the Rose gave a bit of a lurch.That told him the waves had increased and Minnie could use a hand.¡°We¡¯re fine, just might have to wait to cook outside, I¡¯ll let you know.¡±, and he left to get on deck.Grabbing his rain jacket from the closet beside the stairs he tucked it under his arm and continued up.


    Sure enough the stormy weather had caught up to them.Wind blowing harder, sky overcast and getting darker and the previously calm waters had started developing high waves, nothing like the north but still enough to be concerned.He checked in with Minnie, who had things well under control with Percy¡¯s willing help.¡°I¡¯m going to clear the decks and check the tow, I¡¯ll be back.¡±.As he left he heard Percy ask ¡°Why does he say that, like that, all deep voice and weird.¡±.Laughing to himself he set off, bow first.All secured, chair''s locked down, grill covered and strapped up, all the wheelhouse windows were tight, windshield wiper was ready as it could be.Midships was good, hatch and hold covers in place.He shooed an adventurous trio belowdecks, they weren¡¯t doing any harm, just sightseeing in the walkway.Safe enough but not a good idea in a blow.¡°Off you go, I know it¡¯s a fantastic sight isn¡¯t it?¡±, he told them, ¡°You¡¯re not in trouble at all, I love seeing the weather too but¡­¡¯When the stormy winds do blow, you¡¯re generally better off below, and seek the seclusion that the cabin grants, and so should your cousins and your sisters and your aunts.¡±.The three laughed at the odd captains song but scampered down the stairs.


    Finally at the stern he made sure all the davits were tight, safety chains in place too.The tow bollard was solid as a rock but he always worried about the line snapping and kicking back at the boat.That¡¯s why this area was off limits.The chop had really come up now but the Rose was handling it with ease, his only concern was the untested barges.Made from the same plans as the Newton models so all should be well.Those three scows had been through some epic bad weather and came through fine.And here came the rain, lashing down hard, the temperature must have dropped fifteen degrees in as many minutes.The combination of wind and water made it a bit unpleasant on the open deck, standing under the walkway was better but still chilly.Minnie blew the steam whistle to get his attention just then, so he hurried inside.¡°Look up ahead, off starboard bow.¡±, she pointed.They were coming up to an area with high cliffs, no beaches just wave beaten rocks leading up to dense forest.¡°Good logging area huh.¡±, she said.Reminding Will of the Oregon coast, beautiful and rugged but still nowhere for them to anchor while the storm passed.¡°We¡¯ll have to continue on, at least while the storms raging.¡±, Will said, ¡°Besides, we still have nearly a full days travel to the nearest coal shores.¡±.Percy looked on the map, ¡°Where are we?¡±.Minnie showed him and when he saw how far they still had to go he looked a bit scared.¡°What¡¯s up little guy?¡±, Will asked.¡°It¡¯s just so far to go still.¡±, he replied.¡°Has Minnie told you the stories of our travels yet, how far we went.¡±, Will asked him.¡°A little bit dad, but not too much, I figured one night when we¡¯re sitting in the lounge would be a good time.¡±, Minnie replied for him.Will nodded sagely, ¡°A good idea, but I will tell you one thing.A little while ago we left Newton and steamed north for nearly forty days, without stop.Don¡¯t worry my man, I¡¯ll do my best to keep us safe.¡±.At that moment the bow dipped and a good sized wave crashed up and over onto the deck.Will and Minnie whooped with excitement, she was standing on her stool holding the wheel with a grip of iron.Will was relaxed in his chair, Percy standing beside him just looking at the green water sheeting down the glass.¡°That looks cold, brrr.¡±, he said.¡°Cold?Let me tell you about cold Perce.¡±, and Minnie was off with a tale of the burrows.


    Below decks it was a bit rough now, the stoves were off for safety reasons.The crew quarters were full of teens trying to get comfortable and just waiting for the storm to end and the waters quiet.Naomi was in the mess, a few teens were worried and she was easing their fears.¡°Minnie and the captain are in control and we will be fine.¡±, she repeated for what seemed like the tenth time.Ron was sitting beside her, he was a bit scared too and had told her he was still pretty frightened of the water, no matter how much better it made him feel.¡°We¡¯ve been through some nasty weather, I¡¯ve seen sixty foot waves and the water freezing on contact with you.Dad kept us safe, always will.¡±, she told the gathered kiddies and one little cat guy.She took out her fiddle and began to play, tunes that she learned as a youngster in Laketown and then some she had picked up from Will.The music, always upbeat and jolly, helped everyone relax a bit.The unicorn and puff were heard through the ship, and even reached the wheelhouse faintly.


    Storms never last and this one was no exception.It had never gotten truly out of control, bigger waves had appeared occasionally but hadn¡¯t threatened the safety of the boat.Eight hours after leaving Laketown Naomi was finally able to light the stoves again and start whipping up a meal for the starving crew.The traditional cheeseburgers would have to wait for first day ashore.Tonight was scrambled eggs on toast and fried ham, devoured by everyone.Rosie had brought a loaded tray up to the wheelhouse for the trio there.Will had managed to make tea and they were well supplied with biscuits so they hadn¡¯t starved.But the appearance of real food was very welcome.¡°So quiet up here now,¡±, Rosie said after dropping off and standing at the railing.¡°Like a different world hmm?¡±, Will commented.And it was. The high seas and roar of the wind, the spray from the bow and the driving rain, all gone now.Calm water, hardly any wind, just from their speed, chuffing of the engine.A beautiful picture.In the now very dim evening Will had lighted the deck lanterns and let Naomi know it was okay for the crew to come on deck again.Minnie and Percy, especially Percy, had gone below after being stuck in the wheelhouse for hours.Minnie had braved the weather and taken a break after the first four hours but Percy had stayed in the entire time.He had not wanted to get the least bit wet.


    As the first day wound down Will was still at the helm, the crew had gone to their bunks, delighted with the sleeping bags.Minnie had gone for a few hours sleep, and made sure Percy and Ron were safe and sound in their cabin.Naomi had come on deck, to cool down and unwind from the bustle of earlier.¡°We¡¯ll find the coal shoals tomorrow morning I think, lunch time at the latest..¡±, Will said sitting out on the bow.They were proceeding on the same course as the last couple of gatherings so it was safe to travel at night.¡°I¡¯m off dad, see you in the morning.¡±, Naomi said and just like that Will was alone.He went back inside and sat in the great chair behind the wheel.One hand holding the ship steady on course, the other with a fresh cuppa.

 I鈥檓 a Lumberjack

    Chapter 62. I¡¯m a Lumberjack


    In his wildest dreams Will never thought he would actually be cutting down trees.A long time ago he and his family went to a Christmas tree farm and cut down a tree, and he¡¯d split his share of firewood in their camping years.But that was the sum of his knowledge about the subject.Lucky for them Naomi had an uncle who cut firewood for a living.¡°No kidding, how many uncles do you have?No wait, we only have an hour til breakfast, tell me later.¡±, Minnie laughed.Naomi very sensibly stuck her tongue out at Minnie and went on, ¡°Regina told me the older kids, Wilbur and Grace are from the eastern families and have been around loggers their whole lives.¡±.Well that was good news.¡°Hopefully they¡¯ll show us what to do, I¡¯m just worried about someone getting hurt doing this part.Worse you can do gathering coal is drop a lump on your foot.¡±, Will replied.


    They were still making good time, probably reaching the gathering area by noon, providing no more excitement in the way of weather. They had decided to beach the empty barge, the one for logs, then pull it off shore when they were ready to load it. ¡°All depends on if there good trees here, what kind, how big and so on.¡±, Will thought aloud. The area on the coast was kind of familiar, they had been this way a few times now. He had vague plans of constructing a forward base here too, a camp that would be used on gathering voyages. To not stress the Rose as much and to not stress the kiddies by staying off of the water. Just an idea for now. The same plan as the camp where they gather for Newton. Several outbuildings, bunk houses, kitchen, storage. Not difficult to build and would be much easier to house the teens. Living and working off of the Rose still worked though, so it was just a thought, noodling around in his brain. For now.


    As it happened Will was at the helm, steaming along the coast when he caught sight of the black line that was the shoal.He blew the whistle and the crew streamed on deck to see where they would be working for the next couple of weeks.Minnie at the front of the crowd, keeping the youngsters in line, the two boys at the back of the line.They made a beeline for the wheelhouse, Percy knocked politely and waited until Will beckoned them to come in.¡°You guys don¡¯t have to ask permission to go anywhere you know, no where¡¯s off limits to crew.¡±, he reminded them as they sat on the captain¡¯s chairs.¡°Well maybe Naomi¡¯s room, she might be a bit upset if you go rummaging around, and my crafting room, but yeah, anywhere else is fine.¡±, Will spun around hearing Minnie¡¯s voice and was startled to see her leaning in one of the open windows.¡°We just don¡¯t want to get in the way, you all work so well together.¡±, Percy said as he tidied up the map table.Rolling charts, putting pencils in their jars, closing Wills inkwell, he just naturally fiddled with stuff.¡°You¡¯re not in the way boys, you¡¯re family.This is your home and you¡¯ll find your place.¡±, Will said, surveying his now clean area with satisfaction.¡°Our laundry needs doing, and the heads a bit hairy, dunno why, and big hair clots in the bath tub but that¡¯s Naomi¡¯s fault.¡±, Minnie added to the conversation.Will raised an eyebrow ¡°Oh is it, who took a two hour bath the other night and used most of my lavender soap?¡±.¡°Yeah that was me¡±, she admitted, ¡°But I needed a bath, I smelled like dirt and weeds, and your stuff was pretty nice.¡±.Ah my girl, he thought.¡°Never change Minnie, never change.¡±, he laughed, ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to do laundry and clean up.We¡¯re going to be anchored soon and then the fun begins.¡±.


    Will brought them around and went dead slow.Naomi and Minnie ran, jumped and landed on the barges.One being anchored fairly close to shore for coal loading, the other was going to be beached until needed.The children were still amazed at the abilities of the crew, but being from Laketown they were more used to seeing them working.It was still amazing for Will, growing up reading science fiction and fantasy books about people with fantastic skills.They weren¡¯t super by any means but they were different, superior in some ways.But that way of thinking was dangerous.The whole ¡®I¡¯m smarter or older or richer, so I know better, am better than everyone else¡¯, that way of thinking could easily go down a dark path.However if you really are superior, stronger and faster, tougher and longer lived, aren¡¯t you actually better?Scary indeed.Shaking his head, the better to get these cobweb¡¯s out, he turned back to the business at hand.


    Sounding the water as they cruised slowly to shore they were finding it very deep, there must be a sharp drop off close to the rocky beach, which was good for them.Anchored close made loading easy, however the plan of beaching the unused barge was scuttled.Pushing the empty scow onto these sharp rocks would damage the hull.So it was anchored off shore as well, the Rose a short distance from the two.No gathering would be done today, however certain things were going to be ferried ashore and set up.As the engine was stopped, boiler blown down the boat was resting easily for the next couple of weeks.Their next plan was to set up several of their large canvas tents.Cooking, dining if necessary, storage, all that was going to be done ashore.Maybe not the weekend meals, and certainly not tonight¡¯s.Sticking to their traditional meal tonight, cheeseburgers and chips.That was a few hours away but the galley crew was already hard at work.A light lunch was being served in the mess now, then bread was to be baked, biscuits and cakes were in the making too.Will and Minnie, with a willing hand from Percy and Ron, had loaded the dory with all the gear for shore and were preparing to head off.Having two more crew was making things easier already.Getting twice the work done was nice, but Will had a quick word with Minnie not to overdo it.¡°You and I can go for days, lift and tote like champs, but not the boys, not yet.Keep a good eye out okay sweetie?¡±.


    With an ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡±, to Naomi, Will and the other three took off in the loaded dory. Rowing hard to shore took just a few minutes, arriving on the beach with a spray of salt water, helped by the waves. ¡°What a boring place this is.¡±, Minnie pointed out. And it was, the beach was rocky, leading into an prairie scrub land. Not much in the way of trees, just a few isolated copses spread out. In the far distance, signs of a river could be seen, more vegetation in a line ¡°Fresh water that way.¡±, Will said happily, ¡°Won¡¯t have to move the Rose to fill up.¡±. They began to set up the tents on the highest ground they could see and still be fairly close to the coal. Minnie was still a bit short tempered when it came to setting up and nearly hurled the tent poles into orbit when they snarled up and bopped her on the ears. ¡°Dad, dad, can¡¯t we just build log cabins here and not have these stupid tents that make me lose my marbles.¡±. Will looked around at the severe lack of log cabin materials, ¡°Yeah sure.¡±. And went back to showing Percy how to hammer in the foot long spikes to secure the tent. ¡°Grrr,¡±, she growled, ¡°I¡¯m going for a walk, come on Ron.¡±, Ron looked at his brother ¡°We¡¯ll be back.¡±, in a whisper and he joined Minnie looking for crabs.


    It hadn¡¯t really taken long to set things up and Minnie had come back to help, after a few minutes of stomping along the beach throwing rocks at the water, then searching for crabs.¡°Still nothing, just two tiny guys that pinched Ron¡¯s finger and made him squeak.¡±.Carrying the stoves, tables and chairs to the tents took a little while longer and soon they were all back in the boat and rowing hard to get over the waves and out to open water. Coming alongside the Rose Minnie jumped on deck and threw the davits to Will.The other two climbed out and onto the deck then the boat was lifted into place.¡°Mission accomplished, get an early start tomorrow.¡±, Will told Naomi, who had joined them on deck.¡°Things are a lot smoother than my first voyage.¡±, Naomi said, looking over at the shore.Will shrugged, ¡°Took us a while to work the bugs out, I like to work smart, not hard.¡±.


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    After the away crew had a bite to eat, Will gathered all hands on deck ¡°Safety meeting.¡±, he started. ¡°Does that mean if no one works, no one gets hurt, cause that sounds good!¡±, Minnie interrupted. Laughing he continued ¡°Sorry but no. However because we are gathering coal and logging we need to get a few things straight. When we get to the logging part none of you will be touching or using an axe, saw, hatchet, nothing. Too dangerous, maybe in the future we will have a trained group of lumberjacks to come with, but you all know why that might not work.¡±. Pausing for a tea break, he went on. ¡°Grace and Wilbur¡­¡±, he heard Minnie whisper to Percy ¡°call him Willy, he loves it¡±. Grace and Will..bur¡±, now she had him doing it. ¡°Your chaperones are from the eastern part of your country and they and their families are experienced loggers. They¡¯re going to be showing the crew¡±, he indicated the five of them, ¡°showing us the right way to do things.¡±. After fielding a few questions from the teens, what are we doing while you cut down trees, there¡¯s no trees to cut here is there, how far are we going to be travelling, things like that. It took a while but they had all afternoon and evening to waste now, a good dinner, early bed then to work.


    ¡°Dad I have a question.¡±, Minnie was sitting beside Will at their spot at the bow of the Rose, just doodling in her sketchbook.¡°What¡¯s that sweetie?¡±.She looked at him ¡°How come we could bring the burrowers guys on board, the fighter guys, then the rest of the families and then even the older ones and they didn¡¯t go nuts.¡±.Will looked around to see if anyone had heard that.Seeing just themselves and two sleeping furry lumps he answered her.¡°I think it¡¯s because there were three of us.In the past only the captain was immune to the waters effects.He or she couldn¡¯t protect older people like we can, or pass that immunity on like we did to Naomi.¡±.He could see her thinking that over, ¡°Did we make her okay, or was she already kinda okay, just waiting for us to finish her?¡±.He shrugged ¡°We¡¯ll never know that but can you imagine how much our life would change if we could start ferrying people around? Bringing logging crews here and there, coal and ore gathering all the time.Picking up and dropping off, every day.¡±.She shivered a bit ¡°Sounds a bit horrible, that¡¯s not fair or much fun.¡±.¡°It wouldn¡¯t be.¡±, Will agreed, ¡°Another problem is, what if the lake immunity didn¡¯t last.People would start running amok on board.¡±.¡°It was tried in the past,¡±, they both jumped as Naomi spoke from behind.¡°It didn¡¯t end well then and probably wouldn¡¯t end well now either.¡±.¡°So it has to be the children?¡± Minnie asked.The other girl nodded ¡°Sadly yes, it¡¯s just the way things are here, we¡¯re used to it.¡±.


    The afternoon went on, beautiful weather and perfect water conditions too.Will had been talking with Wilbur, about logging In general.A dangerous task indeed.Family members had been killed, injured severely, disabled permanently over the years and generations.The elders, mothers and grandmothers, did all they could to discourage their children from following the family business.It had sounded strange at first, to hear Wilbur say that.Grace had explained further, there was a high birth rate in the extended families and there was always enough of the next generation to keep the business going.For three out of four children to leave and seek their fortunes or future in other parts of the land was encouraged, sometimes all the children of a family would go.¡°There¡¯s always some who want to stay, live by the axe and saw.I will be, with Grace.¡±, Wilbur said, holding her hand.¡°We just wanted to see more of the world while we could and when we heard about the logging trip, that suited both of us.¡±, Grace added.Naomi sighed sadly, she had just joined them, taking a break from the heat below.Baking bread was a hot job.


    ¡°How long have you been together?¡±, she asked Grace. ¡°It seems like forever, our families are close, not related but have always worked and visited with everyone.¡±, she smiled at her intended who was showing Will the right way to hold the long crosscut saws. ¡°We were always thrown together as kids, after a while I just knew he was the one, when we get back we¡¯ll be hand fasted. Then married in planting season.¡±. Minnie was listening in, not really on purpose but it was the way her ears worked. She heard everything but only certain things made her pay attention, this kind of conversation was one of those. She and Naomi had many late night talks about relationships, marriage, children and while Minnie had no interest at all and was satisfied with her life, sometimes Naomi wanted more. So hearing the two talking about that touchy subject was cause enough for her to focus in. Now Grace was asking Naomi if she had a someone waiting for her, if she wanted children. Honest questions from a genuinely nice young person but questions that were stirring a pot thought to be long settled. A good thing that Rosie came on deck to ask if Naomi wanted her to start another set of buns baking. ¡°Saved by the bread.¡±, Minnie muttered, garnering a look from Will. ¡°Tell you later.¡±, she told him and started paying more attention to Willy and his lumberjack lessons.


    As the afternoon turned into evening it was time to start dinner, the traditional meal for the first day together.Will lighted the grill, placed the racks over the charcoal and started cooking.Toasting buns, grilling the burgers to perfection, adding sliced cheese when they were nearly ready.The galley gang started bring up the first lot of golden crispy chips and the teens loaded their plates, then off to the bow for a couple of the cheesy goodness waiting there.Tables had been set up and it was a good time indeed.For afters it was several kinds of pie and clotted cream, the pies supplied by Stephens bakery to Ron and Percy¡¯s delight.They had heisted several over the weeks spent hiding out and it was a familiar treat for them.Ron whispered to Percy that he preferred pumpkin over apple, Minnie overheard ¡°Eww, really?It¡¯s up to you but that¡¯s like dad drinking his tea, oh wait you like that too don¡¯t you, I knew I like Perce better!¡±.She picked him up and gave him a thorough hugging, just to let him know she was kidding around.


    The daylight was all gone by the time everyone had eaten their fill, deck lanterns casting warm light on the boat. Several of the crew had brought musical instruments and were playing away, nothing too loud though. After clean up was over Will made a point of thanking the four hard working galley crew. Besides Naomi and her volunteers Ron had decided that helping with cooking and preparing was what he wanted to be part of.


    Eventually all the teens had succumbed to the events of the day and had gone to bed, it was just the five of them on deck now. The boys were completely done in as well and stumbled below, Naomi too. Early days ahead for all of them, but Will and Minnie were still talking over a couple of things. She had let him know about Naomi¡¯s talk with Grace, he had sighed ¡°I don¡¯t know there¡¯s much to even think about, it¡¯s her life right.¡±. Minnie was sitting beside him, leaning up against, much as she had done in their previous life, ¡°I don¡¯t like change, well some is good like the guys, they¡¯re fun, but people leaving just when you get to know them and love them, nope I don¡¯t like that.¡±. ¡°Me either sweetie, me either.¡±. A few minutes later, after Will did a final check on deck they went to their cabin. Minnie had readied quickly for bed and was tucked in her side, looking very comfy. Will cleaned up and changed, then after lay down clicked the switch in his mind¡­


    Menu


    William Harris


    Age 35 (stabilized)


    Intelligence 41/50


    Strength 50/50 Maximum level.


    Vitality 48/50


    Stamina 48/50


    Affinities for gardening, cultivating, fishing, knitting, swimming, mariner ,


    Captain of the heartboat Rose


    Minnie Harris


    Best dog of all


    Age 17


    Intelligence 22/25


    Strength 24/25


    Vitality 24/25


    Stamina 24/25


    Affinities for fishing, swimming, husbandry, mariner


    First Mate of the heartboat Rose


    *The tinker skill has been upgraded*


    Naomi 0¡¯Malley


    Age 18


    Intelligence 39/50


    Strength 44/50


    Vitality 41/50


    Stamina 45/50


    Affinities for cooking, fishing, gardening, swimming, mariner


    Second Mate of the heartboat Rose


    Ron Harris


    Intelligence 10/25


    Strength 5/25


    Vitality 5/25


    Stamina 5/25


    Was once a cat, changing from day to day.


    Affinities for needlework, tailoring and homemaker


    Third Mate of the heartboat Rose


    No skills, yet.


    Percy Harris


    Intelligence 10/25


    Strength 5/25


    Vitality 5/25


    Stamina 5/25


    Was once a cat, changing from day to day.


    Affinities for gardening, husbandry and organization


    Third mate of the heartboat Rose


    No skills, yet.


    ¡°Hey, the guys are on the menu now, third mates and pretty low level so far, but there they are.¡±, he told Minnie happily. ¡°Well that¡¯s pretty neat, going to tell them tomorrow? And all the other stuff that goes with it?¡±, she said sleepily. Oh right, ¡°Um, might wait on that a bit.¡±, the other stuff was a lot to bring up. Climbing in the cold sheets, blowing out the safety candle, pulling the heavy quilt up to his chin, moving until comfortable, this ritual always took a few minutes. He felt for Minnie, held her hand until he dropped into a deep sleep.

 Skills to Pay the Bills

    Chapter 63. Skills to Pay the Bills


    As was his usual habit, Will woke early.He crept quietly to the galley, past all the cabins, and made a quick pot of tea.Then on deck to get a sense ofhow things were going to go today.Was it raincoats and hats, shorts and light shirts, winter jackets and boots, hopefully not the last one.Sure enough it was a sparkling day, warm for the time of year, very light high clouds and just a bit of wind.Going to be an easy day to collect coal.As he sat and drank his tea, he could hear the Rose coming to life below him.The light smoke coming from the galley chimneys got a little heavier as more wood was added.Sounds of running feet, laughter, Minnie¡¯s voice calling out to someone, saying something about bacon.He patted the handrail ¡°Busy days coming sweetie, better get to it.¡±.


    Below decks was a bit more chaotic than the tranquil main, but he was well used to this and made his way to the mess hall where he found everyone.Minnie, Naomi and the boys were at the crew table having a good nosh on bacon, eggs and toast. ¡°Hey pop, morning father, hi dad,¡±, everyone greeted him, a wave and pat on the arm from Ron.He had been doing better with talking, poultices of float weed soaked in lake water relieved the symptoms in his neck, and to Minnie¡¯s horror, tea really helped too.Will poured a fresh mug from the waiting teapot and thanked Bree when she put a plate with fresh eggs in front of him.¡°Everything okay today, no sea monsters throwing logs, or giant sharps, floating weeds?¡±, Minnie asked.¡°Couple of whales stopped by, asking if I knew someone named Minnie, seems she was searching for crabs in all the wrong places.¡±, he replied, ¡°They¡¯re going to stop by later so they can take her bobbing along, bobbing along on the bottom of the beautiful briney sea.¡±. ¡°Arrgghh, why did you doit, that will be stuck in my head all day now.¡±, Naomi glared at him.¡°You mean that song, the bobbing along, bobbing!¡±, Minnie was eyeing him evilly as well and had clapped her hand over his mouth.¡°Yes, that one.¡±, she thanked him.


    It seemed everyone had finished eating, so Will knocked on the table to get everyones attention, joined by Minnie and Naomi.All the teens were looking over at the crew table with varying degrees of nerves, anticipation, and when Will called out ¡°All hands on deck!¡±, there were whoops and cheers and everyone scattered, Minnie yelled over the noise ¡°Don¡¯t forget your lifebelts.¡±.Thanking the galley mates for breakfast Will headed on deck too, and yes, he had on his red life vest.So did Percy and Ron, trailing along in his wake.¡°Going to shore now?¡±, Percy asked, ¡°We¡¯re coming right?¡±, ¡°and Naomi¡¯s coming too?¡± Ron said in his small voice.To these questions, and a dozen more they asked on the way up Will answered patiently.After all, you don¡¯t learn if no one helps you.


    On deck Minnie was in her element, bossing people around.To be fair, she wasn¡¯t really being mean or unfair about things, she was however very firm.She took her job as deck boss very seriously, especially when the youngsters were involved.Keeping them safe and sound, keeping the ship safe, getting the job done, those were her priorities.The fun loving prankster, the lazy sleeper, the cuddly friendly buddy, all of those had been replaced by a razor sharp focused sailor.Any tomfoolery was clamped down on pretty quickly and the ones to blame were told off in no uncertain terms.Dropping all three boats and bringing them to the stairs took a few minutes, then loading nervous teens a few more.Naomi had several crates of foodstuffs for todays on shore meals and loaded those into the skiff she usually rowed.¡°Hey dad, can we name the little boats?¡±, Minnie asked, ¡°Make it easy to say which one to go in.¡±.What a good idea, he thought, ¡°Yup, let¡¯s do it, give me some names, no wait, I can¡¯t write them down now, keep thinking and we¡¯ll do this ashore.¡± Will laughed.When all three boats were loaded and bobbing beside the Rose, Will took a moment and checked the anchors, all tight, he hopped back into the dory and started for shore.


    Getting set up into crews took a few minutes, Minnie¡¯s ¡®Happy Face¡¯ crew, and Wills ¡®No Name¡¯.Naomi had started her aides, Percy and Ron too, getting ready for lunch, mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks, and of course dinner.Easier to bring the fixings with rather than go back and forth.Wills vague plan of building a permanent camp was still swirling around in his mind, but there was not much to build with here.But that was for a later time, it was gathering time.The shiny black rocks were everywhere and easy to pick up, again Minnie and Will spent time smashing larger nodules into smaller for the teens to pick up, they filled bags too mind you.As they walked and smashed and picked and filled, names for the boats were discussed.¡°Happy, or Cheeseburger, or what about Pie, they¡¯re all good names dad.¡±.¡°They are but not very boaty, Petal, or Thorn, maybe Leaf.¡±.


    ¡°Bleargh, sounds revolting.Daisy? Or Pansy and Lily?.¡±


    ¡°Nah, shrimp, crab and lobster?¡±.


    ¡°Or lightning, thunder and rain?¡±.


    ¡°Just call them big, medium and little?¡±.


    ¡°Dark brown, medium brown and light brown?¡±.


    ¡°Aha, got it¡­Oak, Ash and Cedar?¡±


    ¡°I kinda like that dad, let¡¯s check with Naomi, and the little guys, see what they came up with.¡±.Before that was done there were quite a few canvas bags of coal ready to dump into the barge.To the teen¡¯s disbelief Will carried all the bags his crew had filled in the last hour and dropped them in the dory in two trips, while Minnie did the same for the ones her crew had filled.¡°Might want to make it look hard next time dad, I heard a grumble that if it¡¯s so easy for them, why do we do it.¡±, Minnie said to Will as they rowed out. ¡°Well I can address that later, over dinner, to be honest they weren¡¯t that heavy.¡±, Will replied.


    The first lumps of coal were dumped into the vast empty hold.The clean wood would never be the same, but this is what it¡¯s purpose was.Looking around at the solid oak, massive beams held in place with iron bolts, it was hard to think this wouldn¡¯t last too long.The waters would take it.¡°Let¡¯s go, tea time I think.¡±, Minnie said as he hopped back on the dory.She started rowing for shore and the boat had quite a bit of speed and had to slow way down to avoid tearing the bottom out on the tough rocks.Hopping out, they pulled the dory out of the water and checked on their crews.A few more bags had been dumped in the loading area, but as Will bent to fill a few he heard the peal of the dinner bell, signalling a break.Wandering back to the tents with his crew, Minnie and her crew raced by with a ¡°Nyah Nyah.¡±.Of course this could not be tolerated and the race was on.The teens took off at top speed and were neck and neck with the others.Minnie was a few feet ahead and nearly at camp.Will gave a mighty leap and flew and landed beside Minnie as she was running.She gave a squawk of surprise as he took off and made it to camp before her.¡°Not fair, not supposed to show off remember?¡± She squeaked indignantly., waving a tiny finger.


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    ¡°True, but if I hadn¡¯t I wouldn¡¯t have won, so Nyah Nyah yourself.¡±, and sat on his chair at the end of the table.The children made it back and quickly washed up with the buckets and towels.This was just a quick break, twenty minutes or so, and there were plates of biscuits, cakes and carrots.And of course, Laketowns finest apple juice.Will could smell lunch being prepared in the cook tent, and could see Percy and Ron toiling away peeking and chopping.Looked like stew was back on the menu.Naomi and the boys joined them for a break and had some names to try out.¡°What do you think of titan, giant and monster¡±, or ¡°Salt, pepper and onion.¡±.¡°I like one, two and three.¡±. And to be honest Will was leaning towards just numbering them.Easiest of all, but still describes them perfectly.¡°Maybe go with colours, yellow, red, blue.¡± Percy said beside Will.Ron nodded, he liked that idea too.¡°We¡¯ll see, we won¡¯t make a decision yet, maybe when we¡¯re done with coal and we¡¯re heading for lumber.¡±.Standing up, he gave a piercing whistle and the two crews got back to work.¡°See you all at lunch.¡±, and he was on his way back to the shoals.


    He and Minnie got two more loads dumped in the barge before lunch and four more after.The amount seemed small, but they were experienced enough to realize it couldn¡¯t be done in a day, maybe not even a week.Many hundreds of tons would be in here eventually, each piece picked up by hand.Supper was being prepared ashore, the cookstoves drifting smoke, lantern poles had been set up to light the area up.When the sun dipped down it was full dark right after so the goal was to back on board by then.¡°Might not happen tonight though, nice night for a ride in the dark hmm?¡±, Will asked Minnie.He was drinking a before dinner tea, while the finishing touches were put on dinner.The teens, tired from a busy day were in small groups, just chatting away.¡°I wonder if we took a crew from here, when we go build the dock for the burrows, and another crew from Newton, if they¡¯d get along.¡±, Naomi said as she sat beside Will after she and the gang had brought out baked hams, camp taters and fresh baked bread.¡°Good question, you know, we should do that.But that¡¯s in a while, after this trip it¡¯s southbound for us, right?¡±, he answered.


    Percy had sat down when Naomi had, looking fairly tired.¡°Long day huh?¡±, Minnie asked him.He just nodded while filling his plate, Ron much the same.It had been a tiring time, but soon they would board the boats for a good nights rest aboard the Rose.But first, Will stood and addressed the teens. ¡°A good first day, lots of coal for Laketown already.We¡¯ll be full before you know it and homeward bound.It¡¯s a good feeling to be working for your town, and you can be sure that all the hard work you¡¯re doing is appreciated by your families.¡±.He heard Minnie snort softly beside him as he went on.¡°Remember, it¡¯s better to earn something than just being given something, you will value it more.Yes, the crew could do the gathering for Laketown, maybe easier and maybe quicker.This is the way it has always been done, I¡¯m not about to change things.¡±.He sat and started eating.Naomi looked down at the quiet teens, ¡°Did something happen today, you don¡¯t usually come on so¡­strong.¡±.Minnie helpfully started ¡°A couple of the kids started yapping about that if we¡¯re so strong and tough, and it¡¯s so easy for us to lift and carry that we should do all the work.¡±.Naomi looked indignant ¡°That¡¯s not how things are done, never have been.I¡¯ll let the two gossips know about this, they¡¯ll put an end to any more talk.¡±.¡°Are you talking about Bree and Rosie, they seem like such quiet girls.¡±, Will said.Percy stifled a laugh, Ron didn¡¯t even try to hide his and motioned his brother to explain.¡°They talked about everyone and everything in Laketown.I know what colour socks the baker has, how his wife takes her tea.¡±, he said.Naomi joined in ¡°I thought Minnie talked a lot¡±, she ignored the indignant ¡°hey¡± from her sister and went on.¡°They didn¡¯t stop talking all day, not being mean or nasty but just going off on every subject you can imagine and then some.So if I ask them to put the word out, they will.¡±.


    Dinner over, Will organized a dish washing and camp cleanup crew and things were done in a short time.Packing the stoves, tables and chairs back into the tents for the night, loading the boats and back to the Rose.Rowing over the still waters to the dark bulk of the boat, the lanterns on the smaller boats the only light for hundreds of miles around.Minnie hopped up on deck and quickly lighted the midships lantern.The warm light always gave a cosy homey feeling to the ship.One by one the crew climbed out of the boats and headed below, guided by Wilbur and Grace.Washing up and changing clothes for the night.Will and the boys clipped the boats to the davits and cranked them aboard, raised the steps and locked them in place.He then showed them how to check the anchors and do a good tour of the upper deck for the night.¡°You do this every night, don¡¯t you father?¡±, Percy asked as the walked along the railing.¡°Yup, let¡¯s me sleep better knowing everything is safe and secure, and helps me get a feel for the weather too.¡±, he replied.And speaking of that, a bit of a cold wind had come up from the north, they hadn¡¯t noticed on land because of tents, trees, natural blocks.But now on the open water there was a different feeling in the air.


    Belowdecks it was quiet, the teens were relaxing in the mess or crew rooms.Some had braved the deck, finding a quiet area blocked from the cool north wind.¡°As long as your being safe it¡¯s fine, just no horseplay please.¡±, Will admonished them.Minnie came up, brrred and went back down, ¡°Nope, no cold for me thanks, had enough of that for now.¡±.Will was standing at the bow, looking north.He sighed and went to sit at the bow, Percy came with him but Ron went below.¡°Bad weather coming?¡±, Percy asked.Will nodded ¡°I think so, feels like change.The smell, wind, lots of different things.Might not hit for a while, I hope we can get the coal before.¡±.As they sat, talked of this and then that, Will was idly scribbling in his notebook.He looked beside him and saw that Perce had fallen asleep and had snuggled up to him.Looking fondly at his tiny friend, he took off his jacket and covered him.Will had his woolly sweater on as well and it was remarkable at keeping him warm.He sat for a while longer, keeping an eye on the deck but then, after checking his watch, saw it was getting quite late for a work day.He woke Percy up and sent him down to bed, rounded up the few teens left on deck then went below himself.Walking down the stairs he felt the Rose suddenly rock a bit, as if from a rogue wave.But when he quickly ran on deck, followed by Minnie who had also felt the sudden movement, there was nothing.Just the usual gentle rocking, a bit of animal noise from the shore, nothing else.¡°That¡¯s happened a few times lately, what do you think dad.¡±, Minnie asked.She could see he looked a bit worried.¡°Dunno Min, I just don¡¯t know.¡± Will replied.


    Far, far, very far to the north.


    The mountains were at it again.The relative peace of the last couple of weeks was gone.Shakings and rumblings were knocking boulders down the slopes, trees had no chance as done of the rocks were the size of wagons, even the size of the Rose.The trail of destruction was incredible, but as no one was there to witness, did it even happen.The far camp of the burrowers had survived, no collapses or casualties.But the shaking had terrified the young people there, so much so that the caves had been abandoned and above ground dwellings had been constructed.


    The trail of earthquakes and shakes had followed the mountain range as far south as Newton and then Laketown.The farms near the mountains in both communities had been shaken, the residents had never had anything like this happen.It brought up unpleasant thoughts, of the past.No one was still alive from those days, it was hundreds of years ago.But some signs remained for those that looked, most preferring not to.It wasn¡¯t a head in the sand thing, more like a hoping it never happens again thing.As the farms and small towns dug out and cleaned up after the latest it was clear something had changed.It was also clear that no one knew what.