We were kregoinye. When it came to push of pike we shared our possessions, and made the best of it. At the moment, Pompino held the money and goods; ergo, he outfitted me.I wore a decent blue tunic, and grey trousers cut to the knee. I went barefoot. I had a red scarf tied around my head. I swung a thraxter from a broad leather belt. If we got into a fight I would have the choice of Pompino’s armory to arm and armor myself.The days passed sailing along the coast. We sighted a few other vessels, and all was well.Tuscurs Maiden rolled along, breasting the swell with a deal of white smother from her forefoot. The breezes blew and the weather remained fine. To keep from idleness was not difficult.Pompino himself supervised the handling of the mercenaries, the marine component of the ship’s complement.Captain Linson, the master, kept his seamen well in order. They were a bright bunch, and the sails went out and came in in a handy fashion.The Ship-Hikdar, the first officer, knew his duties and played a mean game of Jikaida.
