Quinton enjoyed this calm before the voyage. Most of his crew was not ashore and those that remained were tending to more personal matters such as their own treasures and travel needs for the passage ahead. His quartermaster was finalizing the list of passengers and came over to him in his chamber. “Captain a moment.” He said while walking up and handing over a parchment. 

“It seems we have payment for 45, but our passenger list is only 42. Have Land Hopers started to tip ahead of the voyage?” He laughed at his own joke. While unlikely the guild might have charged more than the original price for transport. Quinton had an on and off good relationship with the head of the Ships Guild. Though that may be due to his more liberal views on what was adequate to transport. 

“We can check the listings tomorrow once everyone is aboard. Perhaps a name or special cargo was lost on a second page…” Quinton noted that the list of passengers did go to the very bottom of the sheet. “So, what is the rumors on these Land Hopers? He had read through the request for transport given to him by the Guild, but his Quartermaster had friends who always knew better. 

“So far mostly the normal tone and take. Tired of not getting to work their own land and hopeful somewhere further up the coast holds future fortunes and acreage. He spoke. Before the captain could ask, he added “And yes they know about The Tower’s venture from a few years ago. Seems they believe the blasted ship did in fact make its way past the horn and found wonders. Not sure if they are dreaming or just hopeful.”

The Tower was the last ship to venture past the Horn which was the most recent major obstacle along the coast that ships had trouble navigating. Uncertain winds, surprise rock outcrops, and plenty of other nasty things from nature and planet seemed to congregate there. The Tower was the last ship to attempt to push past; however, two separate expeditions had been sent to find any hint of wreckage or beacon of safe navigation. All came up empty.

With a heavy sigh and a brace Quinton stood up and asked his Quartermaster to walk with him and then join him on the boat to shore. He decided he would make one final stop to the Guild and personally check to make sure they hadn’t decided to overcharge his dreaming and hopeful clients. The boat took them to shore and as they stood up a few people seemed to be milling about the port. Quick as he could the Quartermaster walked over and introduced himself. It was obvious from some of their things and dress they were members of the Land Hopers group. 

Thinking it to be a nice gift Quinton walked up to the group now in quick conversation with his Quartermaster. “Good evening. My name is Captain Quinton Church. I am fortunate to have a crew and ship ready to carry you beyond the Horn. I wish us all good fortune and a steady wind. Should you have any final requests my Quartermaster here will be happy to answer them. Anything beyond his abilities will require the Guild which is where I am headed now. Should you want to accompany me I am happy for the escort.”