Almost two centuries have passed since the mysterious tragedy of the Poseidon's Fury left its entire crew slaughtered without a trace of the assailant. Only a single shred of evidence remains - a cursed scroll clutched in the captain's severed hand...
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With the fast-moving Odyssean sailing across the waters, the companions settled in for their journey. Despite feeling tired from their morning activities, they remained curious and filled with wonder during their time aboard the ship.
As the coastline quickly passed by, Themistonoe and Mnesarete spent a long time asking the sailors about navigation and trading routes while Ikkos helped to fix the sails. Below deck, Dex offered medicines and massages to the tired rowers between their shifts. Chrysomallo diligently searched for landmarks to help with navigation.
Some nights were spent peacefully under the stars, allowing everyone to rest. Other nights were rough at sea, causing everyone to scramble for stability. Throughout it all, the rowers kept up their fast pace, driven by both the whip and the promise of payment.
After several days at sea, lookouts noticed familiar cliffs in the distance. Byblos' shape emerged from the mist, with its old buildings on top of the rocky land.
With the Odyssean dropping anchor in Byblos' harbour, the companions eagerly gathered their belongings. Ikkos saw a rowboat approaching and called out to the person rowing, "Take us to shore, and you will be rewarded for your efforts." The person nodded and threw down a rope ladder.
One by one, the companions climbed down and settled onto the crowded benches. Chrysomallo handed out coins as the person rowed them towards the docks.
Impressive walls by the sea came into view, decorated with old gates. The companions eagerly looked around as they passed between the protective walls.
Buildings filled the rocky land, connected by winding paths and squares. At the highest point of the city stood a beautiful temple, shining in the sunlight with its white marble.
The person rowing skillfully guided them to a worn dock covered in barnacles. With the help of strong arms, they were pulled to shore, surrounded by a mix of different languages.
Merchants shouted about their goods while traders negotiated deals. Sailors unloaded cargo as the companions expressed their gratitude for arriving safely. It was a lively mix of people at this busy island crossroads.
Thanking the person who rowed the boat, the companions put their bags on their shoulders once again. They looked around, thinking about their next move. Chrysomallo suggested, "Let's talk to the traders and merchants – maybe one of them is going to Susa and will let us travel with them."
They walked through the busy docks, looking at things and listening for any talk about their desired destination. Most traders seemed focused on nearby regions, but one caught Dex's attention.
Interested in his mention of Susa, Dex politely asked, "Excuse me, my friend, but did I hear you talk about Susa? We are pilgrims following Apollo's special message, which tells us to go quickly to that blessed city in the east."
The trader looked at their worn-out appearance before talking. "If you don't mind joining my group of caravans, I can safely take you to Susa."
Chrysomallo stepped forward respectfully. "Your safe help would be very good for Apollo's servants, sir. We can help with healing and translation during your journey if you accept that instead of money."
