Ravenshire's Bustling Docks

As they emerged from the forest, the salty air and sound of seagulls filled Scorch's senses, and she could see the sprawling port town of Ravenshire spread out before them. Eira's eyes widened in awe as she took in the sights and sounds of the bustling docks, her gaze darting from the fishing boats to the merchant vessels and finally to the town itself. Scorch smiled, remembering her own first time in a port town like this. It was a place of excitement and possibility, where the air was thick with the smell of salt and seaweed and the sound of merchants hawking their wares. Sir Valoric led the way, his horse's hooves clattering on the cobblestone streets as they made their way through the crowded town. Scorch and Eira followed close behind, taking in the sights and sounds of the town. They passed by rows of warehouses and inns, the smell of fresh bread and roasting meats wafting from the kitchens. Eira's stomach growled audibly, and Scorch laughed. "Time to resupply, I think," Sir Valoric said, reining in his horse outside a large warehouse. "We can stock up on food and gear here, and then look for a ship to charter." Scorch nodded, swinging down from her horse and stretching her back. "I'm starving. Let's get some food first." The three of them spent the morning gathering supplies and gear, Scorch and Eira sampling the local delicacies and marveling at the exotic goods on offer. Eira was fascinated by the colorful fabrics and spices, while Scorch was more interested in the selection of dried meats and cheeses. Sir Valoric oversaw the whole operation, his practical eye picking out the best gear for their journey. With their packs replenished, the group set out to find a ship to charter. They made their way to the docks, where a bustling crowd of sailors, merchants, and ship captains vied for attention. Scorch and Eira watched in awe as the sailors hawked their wares and the captains touted their ships' speed and reliability. However, as they approached the dockmaster's office, a sense of unease settled over the crowd. Whispers spread quickly, and Scorch caught snippets of conversation about pirates on the seas. She exchanged a concerned glance with Sir Valoric. "...attacking merchant vessels left and right," a sailor was saying. "No one's safe out there." Scorch's heart sank. They had been hoping to find a ship to ferry them across the sea, but if pirates were on the loose, that might not be possible. Sir Valoric approached the dockmaster, a burly man with a thick beard. "Excuse me, good sir," he said. "We're looking to charter a ship. What's the situation like on the seas?" The dockmaster's expression turned grim. "It's not good, friend. Pirates are everywhere. We've had reports of attacks on merchant vessels, and even some of our own ships have gone missing. I wouldn't recommend setting sail unless you're prepared to take a great risk." Scorch's heart sank. They had been counting on getting across the sea quickly and safely. Now, it seemed, that might not be an option. She glanced at Eira, who looked worried, and then at Sir Valoric, who was frowning thoughtfully. "What do we do now?" Eira asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Scorch shrugged, her mind racing with possibilities. They had to find a way across the sea, but it seemed that might not be as easy as they had thought.