Battleship East Storm. The third day of Amira's sea voyage.

It was already early in the morning, the entire crew of the ship was alarmed for several reasons. Princess Amira gave an unexpected order to all sailors and officers to change course. Boatswain Platinum Tail engaged all the Pegasi, with the exception of the resting shift, so that they increased the speed of the ship as ordered. The navigator has laid a new course, and now it's a small matter. Namely, to achieve the goal that Princess Amira pursues.

However, until now there was real excitement among the crew of the ship, and all because many sailors from Equestria, who were waiting to arrive at the port of Baltimare, will not be able to get the long-awaited opportunity for a temporary vacation. Letters to relatives and friends will remain in their personal chests. Those numerous beauties in the port brothels will not be able to receive loving affection from all these sailors. So it would continue for at least a week while Princess Amira visits the capital of Equestria. In any case, it could have turned out that way, but now all these plans have collapsed overnight. Of course, the sailors were unhappy, but they tried not to show their feelings.

Noticing his team and their lackluster attitude, Platinum Tail whistled, attracting the attention of his teammates, "HEY Guys! I also had many plans to return to Equestria, but now you must not forget that we have all signed a military contract with Saddle Arabia, which is a centuries-old ally of Equestria!" Platinum Tail spoke, standing on the deck in front of five dozen sailors, among whom were pegasus, unicorns, and several Earth ponies (these tall stallions from Saddle Arabia). "So go ahead! Follow the order!" Platinum Tail said in a cheerful, commanding voice and carefully looked at the indignant faces of some pegasi.

One of the pegasi, however, keeping a tense but cheerful look on his face, decided to express his point of view for the whole team. "Whatever you say, Boatswain! Personally, I'm only doing this for the most beautiful and exotic mare I've seen in my entire life. Yeah, we are talking about Princess Amira! I am ready to serve her as well as Princess Celestia or Princess Luna! I absolutely respect this mare, and if the order comes from her name, then that's what we should do!" After that, he looked at the other pegasi. "Why are you standing there? I understand that some of you have had too little rest after the night shift, just like me. So, WE HAVE ORDERS! So go ahead, Into the air!" The senior sailor shouted, and after that, all the pegasus from the ship's crew gradually took off.

Each of them understood that such excessive zeal and an order to involve all the pegasi meant something serious in Princess Amira's plans. Yes, a few pegasi still continued their grumbling, but they didn't do it so openly. All of them could be understood. This battleship did not have the best driving qualities. Yes, this ship had good armament, and a large hold. Plus, a large number of the ship's crew, which is able to repel the attack of anyone who turns out to be stupid enough to take this step. That's just because of this, many Pegasi were frankly tired, because their wings worked for several hours a day to create acceleration due to artificially created wind.

Well, but the sailors from Equestria had one positive trait. They were disciplined, and obeyed orders, although sometimes it was hard, and a few grunts and curses, among the sailors, was normal. Although, time passed, and they calmed down, because at the moment of their hard service, they remembered something good. For example, about the mares that are waiting for them at home. Or many mares and foals, who are looking forward to their return.

Although the weather was not stable, because over the past hour, the sun was hidden behind clouds several times, and after it became clear again, the wind was not favorable for the given route. All the sailors understood this. Unicorns didn't stay idle either. They continued to restore cleanliness and order throughout the ship. They also checked the stocks of gunpowder and tried to keep in stock exactly dry accessories for firing from naval artillery. If necessary, everything should be ready for any trouble.

It took about half an hour from the moment when the entire crew of the ship received new orders from the officers, and then Princess Amira ascended to the upper deck, accompanied by Captain Starmore. All the sailors continued to pretend that they were performing their duties, but in secret, each of them, at least sometimes, watched this charming mare with lust.

Amira walked up to one of the side guns, near which the Senior Artillery Officer Coal Trail, was already patiently waiting. They talked about something, and after that, Princess Amira began step-by-step actions to load a sixteen-foot cannon.

Boatswain Platinum Tail, of course, knew that Amira was planning to conduct a practical shooting from the ship's guns, so he was not so surprised. However, he was secretly watching her, and couldn't hide his admiration.

"Karamba! She just picked up this core and loaded the cannon!" Platinum Tail said in a cheerful voice, and smiling, he slightly lingered his gaze on the waist of this princess. "I wonder what else she can surprise all the stallions on this ship?" Boatswain whispered, and out of the corner of his eye he noticed a couple more sailors standing next to him, watching Amira with the same interest. "HEY! Don't you have a job?" Platinum Tail grumbled.

"Uhm... Yes! Yes! Of course, we have our responsibilities and all that... but you just have to admit that Princess Amira... this is the most beautiful thing that can be on this ship." One of the unicorns replied, continuing to look at Amira as if he was in a trance.

Just as Platinum Tail was about to give his sarcastic answer, an alarmed cry of the observer came from the "Crow's Nest", and several strokes of the ship's bell.

"LOOK! There's an Abyssinian on a boat!" Pegasus shouted from the "crow's nest", and pointed with his hoof in the direction where he could see the same cat.

Both sailors, who were standing next to the boatswain and watching the actions of Princess Amira, immediately started up and exchanged glances with each other. "Damn it! It was the best moment of the day, but some cat wanted to ruin everything!" One of the sailors grumbled, regretting that he was distracted from his little observation of the mare, and ran to the bow of the ship, throwing the mop and rag aside on the way.

Platinum Tail quickly shook his head to come to his senses again, and distract his thoughts about Princess Amira, and again became an executive boatswain. "Guys, be ready! It seems that we will have guests, so do not lose your vigilance, and watch the sea and the sky! We don't need any trouble..." Platinum Tail gave all the commands, after which all the sailors began to look more closely at the sea horizon.

Boatswain Platinum Tail, along with all the officers and Princess Amira, ran up to the bow of the ship to better look at what the observant pegasus from the "crow's nest" could see.

Indeed, everything was exactly like that, and the eyes of an observant sailor do not deceive. About three hundred meters from the slowly floating ship, which gradually began to gain speed, there was an Abyssinian in a small boat, which can be seen even with an unarmed eye. This cat was trying to bail out the water from his boat, and stay afloat, but it was noticeable that he was very tired. His movements were of the last strength. Finally, the crew of the ship is obliged to comply with the law on the assistance and rescue of drowning ponies, griffins, minotaurs and so on. Therefore, Princess Amira and Captain Starmore did not take long to wait.

Captain Starmore reacted quickly and, turning to the sailors, and finding the boatswain with his eyes, gave the command: "Platinum Tail! Find a couple of pegasi to fly after this cat! It looks like he's gradually sinking. And I am sure that we will all have a lot of questions for this Abyssinian."

"Yes, sir!" Platinum Tail answered and ran to the central part of the deck to find two more hardy pegasuses as soon as possible. "A curse on our heads. I felt that this whole trip would be filled with all sorts of surprises. Oh, these mares with their whims..." Platinum Tail grumbled, in a low voice and began to peer towards the sails, where several pegasi continued to diligently flap their wings.

Such a surprise for Platinum Tail was like a bad omen, and he was a very superstitious stud. "HEY! Ivory Flash! Night Vision! Come down here quickly, both of you!" Platinum Tail shouted and adjusted his bandana with his hoof.

When both pegasi descended to this deck, Platinum Tail immediately instructed them: "Your task is to fly towards the very boat on which were spotted..." But he didn't have time to finish.

Princess Amira turned with a serious face and furrowed eyebrows, and caught the boatswain and two pegasus with her eyes. "Hurry up! He needs help!" Amira shouted in a commanding voice, quickly turned around again and put her hooves on the edge of the ship's side in the bow.

Half a minute passed.

Both pegasus flew up to this very boat, and saw how the poor Abyssinian, noticing the ship and the ponies flying to help, stopped bailing out the water from his boat. But the boat itself was almost sinking into the water. Therefore, there was a real fright on the poor cat's face, especially when he noticed two shark fins on the horizon to his right.

"Damn..." Abyssinian whispered, and just at that moment, both pegasus flew up to him, continuing to hover in the air and stretch out their hooves.

"Hey! Why are you standing there like an idiot!?" One of the pegasus shouted in a panicked voice, when he also noticed two sharks that were rapidly closing the distance to this boat.

Both pegasus exchanged glances and without saying a word, grabbed this cat under his paws. "Hold on tight buddy! And do not try to scratch with your claws, otherwise we will throw you to these..." The pegasi with a little effort began to lift the Abyssinian into the air, almost at the very last moment.

The faces of two pegasi and one cat were in complete terror, and at that moment a cannon shot rang out from the bow of the ship! Three pairs of eyes watched in horror as a huge shark jumped out of this water and aimed its jaws at the tail of the cat. Abyssinian reacted quickly and pressed his tail to his stomach, and at that moment, when the shark was in flight, and reduced the distance to his victim to about four meters... a cannonball blew this predatory fish to pieces. Blood and pieces of flesh flew in different directions and partially fell on the bodies of the pegasi and Abyssinian.

All three, during the flight, looked towards the bow of the ship, from where the smoke was already dissipating after the shot. And when the smoke cleared, Princess Amira was standing next to the little cannon.

"Damn it! It was very close..." The cat turned his head and looked at his rescuers. "I owe you my life! Thank you for saving me!" Abyssinian spoke in a trembling voice, still arriving in shock.

Both pegasus nodded and, keeping the same shocked expression on their faces, continued their flight. "It looks like we'll all need to thank Princess Amira..."

The cat showed curiosity and smiled slightly while both pegasi flew leisurely, holding his paws tightly with their hooves. "Princess Amira? Hmm..." After these quiet words, the cat had sparks in his eyes.

Amira POV. Part 3. A new friend.

I stood and watched with excitement as our two pegasus flew towards this boat to help the Abyssinian. I had no doubt that these guys would be able to complete this task, but something was wrong. Our ship was gradually moving towards the position of the sinking boat, but it was still far away. My heart was giving multiple alarms, and then I decided to carefully examine the sea.

"There's something wrong, Captain Starmore, please give me your telescope." I said without hiding my anxiety in my voice and looked at Starmore, stretched out my hoof.

"Yes, Princess Amira." Starmore said, and took the telescope off his neck.

I took this telescope and looked in the direction of the sinking boat, and turned my gaze left and right.

At that moment, the voice of my guardian angel sounded in my head again. "Amira! Charge this Falconet, immediately! Look to the left of the boat. This cat must not die!" Emerald said in an anxious voice.

My heart sped up the rhythm, and adrenaline boiled in my blood when I could see two shark fins on the surface of the water. Two sharks were rapidly swimming towards their prey, anticipating a light breakfast!

"Damn it!" I swore and threw this telescope with my hooves in the direction of Captain Starmore, who only caught his thing with surprise and with a quick reaction.

Three officers, Boatswain Platinum Tail and several other sailors watched the speed with which I began to load this very Falconet, which was attached to the side in the bow of the ship.

My reaction was such that I began to realize how crazy a mare I look at this moment. I shoved the powder charge of the into the barrel of the gun and, rolling a small-caliber core, looked at our senior artillery officer. "Coal Trail! Hurry up, help me aim the Falconet at the target! See for yourself, there are two sharks!" I shouted in an anxious voice and pointed with my hoof in the direction of those predatory fish.

Author's notes: Falconet is a small caliber cannon. As a rule, the weight of the projectile for this gun did not exceed three feet. Usually such small guns were installed in the bow and stern in the superstructures of the ship.

Linstock pin is a device that served to ignite the charge in the cannon. Before the advent of exhaust pipes, reed or wooden tubes were inserted into the faces of guns, the internal channels of which were stuffed with gunpowder or powder pulp.

Captain Starmore and his assistant Simhaashi began to observe the sea horizon through their telescopes. It was noticeable how the ears of both stallions began to twitch nervously. Coal Trail, keeping a stoic expression on his face, in which full confidence was read, approached this cannon and stood on the right side.

"It seems that we did not cancel the training shooting from the cannon. So this is a great opportunity, Princess Amira. I trust you completely." Said Coal Trail, and squatting down, took the linstock in his hooves, and looked at me resolutely. "I'm ready to light the fuse, on your order!"

Time passed by seconds! More precisely, I was already starting to get a little nervous because of a little self-doubt, but my friend, Emerald, was able to give me hope. "Don't be afraid, Amira! I'll help you." Emerald whispered in my head.

I squinted and put my right cheek against the barrel of this cannon. "Just not to hit my own." I whispered and pushed this falconet a little to the left, about 10 degrees.

Time has slowed down... no! I'll say more. For me personally, time has stopped.

At that moment, a real mathematical calculation process was going on in my head. I had to take into account the approximate range to the target, and the flight speed of a cannonball weighing three pounds. The bangs on my mane blocked my view a little, but the way all these hairs fluttered, and the wind blowing across my face, as well as the fact that the lives of two pegasi and one Abyssinian will depend on my correct calculation. My eyes were watching the two shark fins all the time. I won't lie, fear betrayed my slightly shaking hooves. Hooves that right now, at this very moment, decide the outcome of fate.

Sigh... the pounding of my heart in my chest was like an echo. "Amira, shoot now!" Said Emerald, who apparently is very worried about watching my actions.

Time is back on track...

I quickly removed my cheek from this cannon, and while I was in a hurry to cover my ears with my hooves, like all the ponies who were standing next to me, I shouted the command: "FIRE!"

Coal Trail, which was patiently waiting for my command, and was ready, brought the linstock to the wick.

BOOSH!!!

There was a shot, and powder smoke, which filled the nostrils of every pony, with an acrid but tolerable smell of sulfur. The whistle of a flying projectile, did not let you forget that urgently need to come to your senses after this shot, and look at the result. When the smoke finally cleared and we cleared our throat, we could see two pegasus flying in our direction. They held the poor Abyssinian under his paws, and it seems that this shot had the proper effect. Coal Trail and all the other officers put their hooves overboard to see the consequences of this shot.

Coal Trail smiled broadly, and slowly turned his head in my direction. "Damn it! That was a great shot, Princess Amira!" Said Coal Trail, not hiding his excitement in his voice and pointed with his hoof towards the sea.

In the place where a few seconds ago there was a boat that had already sunk, a large, bloody spot formed. It was evident that the second shark abandoned his plans for a light breakfast, and began to devour his dead friend. It's a disgusting sight.

I swallowed the lump in my throat, and a slight smile appeared on my face. "I think that the practice shooting was successful, and my skills have not yet sunk into oblivion." I said in a low, trembling voice, but shaking my head, I looked at my officers. "Captain Starmore, you know what to do."

Starmore was finally able to come to his senses, too, and looked at me seriously. "Yes, Princess Amira." After these words, he looked at his assistant. "Simhaashi, write down the time in the ship's log, and mark the place on the map where exactly we were able to find the Abyssinian, and warn the ship's doctor that he will have an unusual visitor now. After that, you can rest. I know you're already tired after the night watch."

Simhaashi gratefully and understandingly looked at Captain Starmore. "Yes, Captain Starmore, I will do it." After these words, he squinted at me and could not restrain a sincere smile. "You're a great shot, Princess Amira. I wouldn't want to be your opponent."

I smiled back. "Thank you Simhaashi. Now go, do your work and rest." I said in a slightly cheered voice, and after that, I headed to the center of the deck.

At that moment, two pegasi landed neatly and put the shaking cat down. He looked very tired and wet, all he could do was try to get up when I approached him.

Livardis, who had been somewhere unknown all this time, suddenly ran up, and no matter how amazing it looked, but he held out a towel with his hoof. "Here, take this towel and cover up. Try to be polite and respectful. Princess Amira is standing in front of you." Livardis said in a calm voice.

All the sailors and officers, showing great curiosity, surrounded this cat. I just stood calmly in front of this poor Abyssinian, and looked sadly into his tired eyes. However, I couldn't hide the fact that this cat looked at me. A lot of gratitude was reflected on his face, and his eyes looked at me with fascination, as if I was now a mare in his best dreams. Hmm... this is very unusual. I never thought that Abyssinians might like ponies.

He was wearing an already worn raincoat, and some kind of weapon hung from his belt. However, while a fleeting silence was formed at this moment, I was able to notice a strange medallion hanging around the neck of this cat.

The Abyssinian bowed respectfully, and gratefully accepted towels from Livardis' hooves. After that, he looked around at everyone, and after wiping his face and hands, hung this towel on his shoulders. "Thank you very much. You really saved me from trouble in time. My name is Capper." Said Capper in a slightly trembling voice, and hugged his body with his paws to try to get warmth.

I nodded understandingly, and looked at Livardis. "Livardis, please take care of Mr. Capper, and take him to the ship's doctor. After that, arrange for a good breakfast to be prepared for us and brought to my cabin." After these words, I slightly squinted and wrinkled my forehead, but carefully looked into Capper's eyes. "As far as I understand, you are probably very hungry." I said in a kind voice.

Capper nodded quickly, and the familiar sparkle of hunger appeared in his eyes. He swallowed the lump in his throat and gave his answer: "Yes, you are absolutely right, Princess Amira..." He pitifully lowered his gaze, and shyly pressed his ears to the back of his head. "I haven't eaten for three days... just one piece of bread."

I calmly listened to our guest, and looked at the Boatswain, who had been looking skeptically at Capper all this time. "Platinum Tail. We have stocks of fish that you keep in stock, especially for pegasus. Please, make sure that the ship's cook has done a great job and cooked several portions of fish and vegetables." I said in the same kind voice, and at that moment a sudden wind blew my mane, which immediately climbed into my face.

Platinum Tail nodded affirmatively, and smiling, stood up on his hooves. "As you command, Princess Amira." After these words, he hurriedly went to the lower deck to fulfill my request.

I looked again into the eyes of this surprised, and still shaken from the emotions experienced by the cat. "I'll be waiting for you in my cabin when everything is ready."

Capper sincerely beamed with happiness, and fell on his knees in front of me. This alerted all the officers a little, especially Livardis, while I calmly watched the actions of Capper. He stretched out his paws in my direction, and out of the corner of my eye I noticed how Livardis became alert and brought his hoof to the saber that hung on his belt. I shook my head negatively, making it clear to Livardis that he would calm down and not do rash things, taking such care of me.

This cat just looked at me with gratitude, and in his eyes I could not read any cunning or malicious intent. Capper noticed how all the ponies tensed up after seeing his dramatic actions, and hurried to calm everyone down. "Princess Amira... You are very kind to me, and I will be eternally indebted to you. I'll say even more. I am ready to give my life for you if necessary." Capper said in a low voice, and looked into my eyes with a slight infatuation.

When I saw all these derogatory and grateful gestures on the part of Capper, for a few seconds, I plunged into memories. I remembered how the Abyssinian pirates killed several of my servants, and after that they set fire to our ship, leaving us to sink. It was only thanks to a lucky chance, and a few Equestria ponies, that I survived.

What a paradox, and fate can be unpredictable. Now, I'm saving an Abyssinian, and I'm ready to show him a lot of favor. Although, I have not held a grudge against the Abyssinians for a long time, and thanks to this, I met someone I fell in love with.

I shook my head slightly, causing the mane to fly in different directions, and looked with kindness at Capper who was waiting and watching me curiously. Like all the sailors who stood next to us. "Stand up, Capper. I understand your feelings and desire to be grateful, but you can thank not only me. Now go with my officer, he will help you. After that, I'll be waiting for you." I said in a low voice, and looked at Captain Starmore. "Starmore, you should also be present in my cabin. The rest can disperse!" I uttered the last words in an imperious voice, and cast a loving glance at all the sailors and officers, so as not to seem too strict in front of them.

"Yes, Princess Amira." Starmore replied in a calm voice and bowed slightly.

Captain Starmore also looked at all the sailors, but when they noticed his stern look, they immediately hurried to leave this place and begin their duties. Although, I could hear them discussing this news among themselves. Capper, staggering slightly, stood up again and bowed.

However, before leaving, Livardis stretched out his hoof in the direction of the Capper, and looked at him with a serious face. I noticed it, but I didn't interfere. If Livardis is acting so wary, then there are reasons for that. Starmore also walked around this cat on the other side and coughed slightly.

Capper raised an eyebrow and turned his gaze questioningly to both officers. "Ehm... How can I help?" Capper asked, looking at Livardis.

Livardis softened his gaze slightly when he saw the innocent expression on this cat's face. "Please, Mr. Capper, hand over all your weapons to me. I'm sure you don't need it, and you're safe on the best ship. When the time comes, you will get your weapons back. Don't worry, it will be safe in my closet." Livardis replied in a calm, friendly voice.

However, when I realized the true reason for this delay, I looked even more closely at Capper's belt and his weapon. "No, Livardis!" I said in a determined voice, and all three looked at me questioningly, but I hurried to give my answer: "If you don't mind, I would like to study this weapon." I smiled and looked into Capper's eyes, then stretched out my hoof.

Livardis shook his head. "Oh, the Princess of Amir. Your curiosity..." said Livardis in a slightly indignant voice, but I didn't let him finish.

"Yes, my curiosity may be useful. Now, if you'd be so kind, Mr. Capper. You won't mind if your weapons are stored in my cabin, will you?" I asked, and flirtatiously blinked my eyelashes, which made Captain Starmore bite his lip to keep from laughing.

Capper showed tact and understanding, so he stretched out his paws to the belt and began to undo the clasp. "Yes, of course, Princess Amira. I will be happy to satisfy any of your desires and curiosity." Capper replied in a noble voice, continuing to fiddle with his belt.

Something in his voice and demeanor betrays aristacratic traits in him. I think I'm going to have an interesting conversation with this Abyssinian. I'm really curious to know everything about our unexpected guest. Also, Emerald made it clear to me that this is the cat who can help me in my mission, and become my best friend. Hmm... I really hope that Livardis will not show jealousy. I won't lie, but I feel that this cat really likes me, and it seems like it's a mutual feeling.

Capper handed me the belt and hurried to give his explanation: "Please, Princess Amira, be careful with these things. You'd better not touch them, otherwise it could be dangerous." After these words, he pointed with his paw at two objects that were made of wood and metal, but I have not yet met such a weapon.

Although it was noticeable that this weapon was not intended for ponies. Only like Capper, that is, Abyssinians or other intelligent species that have fingers on their paws can use this weapon.

Capper noticed my confusion and smiled slightly. "Yes, Princess Amira. It's a Pistol. Such weapons also use gunpowder, just like your guns on this ship. You can consider this weapon a pocket cannon. Heh... although my gunpowder got wet during this accident. I'll tell you all about it later. Oh, yes..." Explained Capper, and after that he put his right paw behind his back, which was covered with a cloak.

Starmore and Livardis tensed up again, seeing that this cat began to bend, trying to get some more surprise out of his secret pocket.

Capper pulled out a few shurikens (a very rare throwing weapon that is mainly used by various spies and mercenaries), but ponies can also use this weapon, but it still requires skills and training. Of course, such a surprise left a lot of questions in my thoughts.

I, Livardis and Starmore exchanged glances with each other, but Livardis decided to get ahead of me. "Who are you, Mr. Capper? You are armed as if you went to war or some special task from the government of Abyssinia." Livardis asked and took these shurikens from the paws of the Capper with his hoof.

Capper made a serious face, and his eye twitched slightly nervously, after that he stretched out his paw to this mysterious medallion hanging around his neck. "It makes no sense for me to hide the truth from you, especially since I owe you my life. Only, I'd like to start my story from the beginning." Capper replied in an even voice, but his eyes were like glass.

Well, I decided I needed to give Capper time. "We will definitely listen to your story, right after breakfast, now go to the infirmary." I said in a soothing voice, and handed all these weapons to Starmore. "Come with me, Captain Starmore."

Everyone nodded in agreement, and I finally went to my cabin, accompanied by our Captain. In general, this morning started in a strange way, and this no doubt brings me a lot of anxiety. I'm going to have too much to do, and just thinking about it makes me feel tired already. Of course, this did not escape Starmore's attention, but I asked him not to bother me with unnecessary questions, at least for five minutes. So we sat at the table where we had placed Capper's weapon and looked at these things carefully.

That's just one question began to torment me, the answer to which I would like to know. I lifted my chin off my hooves and looked into Starmore's eyes. He noticed the gesture and waited patiently for my question.

"Starmore, do you have any idea how exactly the Abyssinians, and possibly other kingdoms, got the opportunity to create weapons that also use gunpowder when firing? Look for yourself, carefully at these Pistols! They really look like it's a scaled-down version of a cannon. Why is my counterintelligence working so poorly?" I asked the last words with indignation, and crossing my hooves on my chest, turned away to look out the window.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed how Starmore moved one of the pistols, and taking this weapon in his hooves, he began to carefully study the principle of the mechanism. "Well, you probably think that only in our kingdom there are scientists? Yes, I am even more than sure that many countries have long stolen our technology, and everyone secretly uses it at their discretion. In the end, several of our expedition ships were able to fall into the clutches of pirates. I think you can already guess the consequences. The pirates simply sold a few guns from these ships to the Abyssinians, and those in turn, having paid these pirates well, were able to study these weapons. After that, they were able to establish their own production of weapons based on black powder. That's why I was worried for a reason that our ship was staffed by only half a crew of sailors. We are going into dangerous waters teeming with sea robbers, and I am sure that Mr. Capper will provide us with a lot of interesting information. In general, I have a feeling that he is also a pirate!" Starmore said, and put the pistol on the table, after that he carefully watched my reaction.

I took a deep breath, and felt my stomach give out a feeling of hunger, and it did not escape Starmore's attention. "Sorry, Starmore. You're really right. Sometimes I forget that I need to look further than my own palace or my beloved subjects." I turned around again and put my hooves on the table, but I had a slightly haggard expression on my face. "I want to confess to you," I whispered in a low, gentle voice, not taking my eyes off Captain Starmore.

Starmore did not take long to wait. "Confess to falling in love? Oooh... Amira, I've been waiting for these words from you for a long time. After all, what am I worse than Livardis?" Starmore asked in a joking manner, but he also kept his eyes on me.

Well, I decided to play along with this officer a little, otherwise, we somehow have to pass the time while our breakfast is being prepared. "Of course, I love you, Starmore." I replied in a flirtatious voice and made a seductive expression on my face. "That's just, I wanted to admit something else. I already told my revelation today in front of all the officers, and I didn't hide anything. You know that very well. Therefore, when we were all on deck, we heard the anxious voice of a sailor from the "crow's nest", my guardian angel told me that the one we had to save would be able to help me in this mission. I feel like it's a sign of fate. Therefore, you must take this into account, which means that whoever Mr. Capper turns out to be, you will not think about hanging him for piracy." After these words, I resolutely looked at Starmore's impenetrable face, and put my hooves on the edge of the table. "Do you understand what I'm talking about?"

Starmore made a cute expression when he heard the seriousness of my words. "Whatever you say, Amira. Now, maybe you will relax already, otherwise your face now looks tired and tense at the same time. Besides, we really need to wait for Livardes and Mr. Capper so that we can establish the truth. However, I noticed that you want to eat, just like me. So let's put serious conversations aside, and while the cooks are preparing breakfast for us, I'm going to talk about something else." Said Starmore, and, closing his eyelids, also put his hooves on the edge of the table. "I'm still curious, you were able to hit the shark with a Falconet shot. Provided that the chance to hit such a target, from a distance of two hundred meters, to put it mildly, is small. Still, you were able to do it! Although, I know the truth about you, it's hard to be surprised. That's just, I haven't witnessed your blessed talents yet. Of course, except for your flirtatious demeanor, and of course the famous dances. Hmm... it always looks erotic." Said Starmore, and continuing to smile, decided to dream a little.

"Yes, you're right, Starmore. Besides, I wouldn't have been able to fire a Falconet without help. So that... Starmore? What are you dreaming about now?" I asked, seeing the expression of ecstasy on the face of this stallion.

Starmore returned to this world again, and shaking his head, looked at me with wide eyes. "Me? I'm nooo. I'm not dreaming... simply... aahr!" Starmore grumbled and covered his eyes with a hoof. "Who am I trying to fool? Forgive me, Amira, but sometimes I think about you, and that the very Heartfelt Path to which you gave your devoted love, he is a happy stallion." Whispered Starmore, and again looked at me with slightly sad eyes.

This topic again! It's already becoming familiar to me, but every time a stallion says these words to me and looks at me with sadness, it hurts in my soul. It seems that I always have to pay for the path that I chose for myself. I only hope that these daily attacks on my state of mind will not drive me crazy, and I will finally achieve my goal.

I looked at Starmore with understanding, and made pleading eyes. "Please, Starmore. Let's not talk about it. I had a rough night, and this day has just begun, and I already feel broken and tired. I don't have the energy for all these games. Although, I don't mind flirting with you or with Livardis, but right now real tension is boiling in my head, and I'm not thrilled that we probably have a hard way to this island. I can feel it." I said, and wearily put my chin on my hooves.

Starmore, crossed his hooves on his chest, and closed his eyes so as not to look at my tired state. "Princess Amira, I understand everything perfectly. I also do not deny that there is a high probability that we will have problems, BUT!" He narrowed his eyes and slightly brought his face closer with a sly smile. "But, with us is Princess Amira, who can shoot a cannon perfectly, dance erotic dances, charm stallions with her beauty and grace, drink rum with sailors, and be the soul of any company... Knowing all this, I don't want to show excitement once again. Therefore, I still strongly recommend you to relax a little. Don't think about the bad. Now we'll talk to Mr. Capper, and after that, our Boatswain will show him a free hammock. So promise me that you will at least get some rest from all these thoughts! Yeah, I remember that now you'll probably have nightmares every time you fall asleep... I know a very good medicine that will help you fall asleep, and at the same time you won't even be able to dream." Starmore said in a low voice, and winked conspiratorially with one eye.

His words made me smile and cheer up a little. "Hehe... Thank you, Starmore, for your words. I think I can guess what kind of medicine you're talking about. Well, maybe if it's so necessary, I'll take your advice. I promise you that after we talk with Capper, I will rest." I said in a quiet, kind voice, and I couldn't keep from yawning.

Starmore is really right. That night, I didn't sleep well, and the nightmare left me exhausted, but I'm still afraid to fall asleep again. This is not immediately forgotten. I can still feel the heat from that demon's mane on my face. Besides, he was going to rape me, and he almost succeeded... Damn bastard! Although, I must not forget that Emerald promised to be with me in any difficulty. Well, this thought really warms me and gives me hope.

Starmore and I continued our casual conversation, sometimes turning to light playfulness and sexual innuendos. Only we did not forget that such a game was just to relax a little, and did not carry serious consequences. I was once again convinced that Captain Starmore is indeed the most experienced stallion on this ship. He understands that when communicating with me, you need to be able to understand me, and change the topic of conversation in time.

Starmore went to the window and began to carefully examine the sky and the sea horizon. "YES! It seems that luck will be on our side, at least for a few hours. Look at the sky, Amira." Starmore said in a cheerful voice.

I got up from the table and went to the window, began to look at the sky with interest. "Heh! It seems that the wind will be stronger and more favorable, which means that the pegasus from our team will be able to rest normally! This is really amazing news, Captain Starmore." I replied and, without hiding my genuinely joyful mood, looked at my friend.

"That's right, Amira! Will you let me go away for a few minutes? I want to give the command that the pegasi finished strengthening the artificial wind, and went to rest. By the way, I think it would be a good idea to reward those two pegasi who helped save Capper! What do you think about this idea?" Starmore asked, keeping a good mood, and continued to look into my eyes with hope and even with a slight infatuation.

Well, I like this attitude from the outside, and I think I'm starting to respect Starmore even more. "Of course, Starmore! You're right! I think I could personally reward these brave stallions, but... heh... How should I do this? Maybe you have an idea? I'm ready to listen to you." I said and thought a little, but then, I began to feel my cheeks begin to warm from one vulgar thought.

Of course, Starmore was able to notice this, and a wry grin appeared on his face. "Damn it, Amira! I didn't even think about it! No, of course you have the right to reward these stallions as you wish, but I still recommend giving them a small cask of wine from your stocks, and releasing them from duty for a couple of days. That would be the best reward for any sailor." Said Starmore and wrinkling his nose, turned towards the door. "I can't believe..." Starmore muttered to himself.

I couldn't help but grin as I listened to this stallion grumble. "Haha! Starmore! In fact, you were able to calm me down again, because I began to think that I would have to "thank" these sailors the way I usually like to do it. That's just I'm not in the mood right now to give loving kisses to every stallion who deserves to receive a reward from me. Okay, I was just joking, and I decided to play a little naughty mare again, so don't take me seriously. You can be free. Oh, and by the way, I would really appreciate it if you would tell these pegasi that I will definitely thank them personally as soon as the opportunity arises." I spoke, barely restraining myself from laughing.

Starmore shook his head, and going to the door, looked at me with a serious look. "Yes, Amira. I hope that someday, you will be able to find time to thank me too. Okay, I'll be back soon, at the same time I'll go into the kitchen and check if our breakfast is ready. To be honest, I'm hungry too." After these words, he opened the door and slowly left my cabin.

Well, I was left alone again, and decided to go to the mirror. Squatting down, I gazed at my tattoo fascinatingly to while away my temporary loneliness.

It took about half an hour.

Captain Starmore returned to my cabin, still in a good mood. Along with him came three stallions from the ship's crew, obviously these are the same cooks of the Royal Navy.

They bowed to me and one of them spoke to me: "Princess Amira, we have prepared for you what you ordered." After these words, he lifted the lid from the tray. "This is baked fish in sauce, just delicious, and frankly, not only pegasus love it. Yes, I already know that there is an unexpected guest on our ship today, and nevertheless we really did our best! I really hope that your guest will like it." The cook said in a respectful voice, but his words really were full of sincerity and not a drop of flattery. That's what I appreciate about ponies.

I smiled good-naturedly and put all my gratitude and love into my look. "Thank you very much! Hm... by the way, it smells tempting. Did you use any seasonings? Because I actually also ate fish, but this was a rare case in my life. It really smells delicious! I'm sure our guest will like it." I replied, arriving in bliss from the smell of spices, and I can be understood. I'm hungry right now!

The cook looked at me with a happy face, because for him my words really were the best reward for his work. "Princess Amira, you can still indulge in this pleasure, and try these fish dishes. Otherwise, my life will be wasted if I can't please our beloved princess! Seasonings really play a role here, but this is not the main thing. The main thing is that my assistants and I have put our whole soul into what you see in front of you. Well, the alluring smell, it's like an invitation card to the best Kerambu restaurant!" The cook said and bowed respectfully again, all the while waiting for my words.

I walked around this table and stood in front of this chef, which embarrassed him a little, because he could not be so close to me more than once. "What's your name?" I asked, trying to relax this stallion a little, and squatted down.

An Earth pony from Saddle Arabia, who was tall, even taller than Livardis. He was red in color, and his mane was white and the same length as mine. He looked to be twenty-seven years old. Well, now I'm going to find out who's been cooking for me all this time.

The stallion looked into my eyes, but I noticed how difficult it was for him to hide his nervousness when I was standing next to him. "My name is Murodinn. Princess..."

"Amira. Yes, I know my name. Now I know your name. You and your assistants have done a good job." After these words, I suddenly hugged this stallion by the neck and brought my face close to his ear. I didn't care that other stallions were watching us now.

Murodinn trembled slightly in my embrace, and I feel his excitement. "Hush... Calm down Murodinn. I'm just a mare, remember that. You can go now. I understand that you still need to cook dinner for the entire crew of the ship, so do not distract yourself from me. However..." I did not hesitate to kiss this stallion on the cheek, which is why he also hugged me around the waist!

I widened my eyes in surprise. The passion of this stallion was very ardent! "Murodinn..." I whispered, looking at all these stallions. I looked into Murodinn's eyes, ignoring the smirks of our captain. "You are a very good and kind stallion. I won't forget it! Perhaps you will become my personal chef in the palace."

Murodinn relaxed his embrace and looked at me with slight embarrassment. "Yes, Princess Amira. I will always be happy if you eat what I have prepared. Have a nice day, Princess Amira." Murodinn said, and bowed and left my cabin with the other cooks.

Starmore followed with his eyes that everyone would turn to leave my cabin, and then looked at me. "Amira, have you eaten fish?"

I walked around that table again and sat down on my saddle cushion. "Yes, I tried fish dishes. I can say that it is very tasty, and does not disgust me, but still I stick to traditional dishes of vegetables and cereals."

There was a knock on the door and I immediately turned my attention. "Come in." I said in a calm voice, expecting exactly the same guests.

When the door opened, Livardis and Capper entered this cabin. Capper looked more cheerful and finally dry. I invited them to sit at the table. When Capper smelled the fish, his eyes widened and his mouth opened slightly.

"Princess Amira..." Capper started to say, but I didn't let him finish.

"Now sit down at this table, eat and drink fruit compote. Sorry, but we don't have any milk! So relax..." I said with a conspiratorial smile, defiantly took one of the fish in the plate with her hoof. After that, I took a bite...

I closed my eyes. Now I feel that I am more free than ever! I chewed this piece and swallowed, then looked at everyone present. "WHAT? I'm hungry too! Sit down and eat, and just try to say the word PRINCESS and what I shouldn't do! I need a freer company." I said and, unable to restrain my hunger, took another bite of well-cooked fish.

I swear, if we come back alive from our mission, I will make sure that this stallion serves in my kitchen! It's just amazing! He was able to cook this fish so that even a pony will love to eat this dish.

Capper exchanged glances with Livardis, and after that he went to the table, and sat down on one of the saddle cushions, began to put fish and vegetables on a plate. Livardis, as always, was the most understanding officer from my guard, so he came up to me and began pouring fruit compote into glasses.

Starmore sat to the left of the hungry cat, and crossed his hooves on his chest, watching his manners. "Mr. Capper. You have received approval from Princess Amira, so feel more at ease. There's no need to follow etiquette when you're so hungry!" Said Starmore, and pushed a plate with a portion of vegetables and fish to this cat.

Capper had been very cultured all this time, and after Starmore's words, he looked at the plate of food. "I'm sorry. I'm still having a hard time getting used to such attention and treatment. You, ponies, are without a doubt the kindest creatures, that live on this planet."

I decided to show concern because I understood this cat. He was in this sea in a boat and did not eat for three days! "Capper... Eat what our chefs have prepared with love. Just take your time." After these words, I looked at Livardis and Starmore. "You too, just have to take part in it! So, bon Appetit to everyone..."

Half an hour passed.

I chewed a piece of fish and vegetables again, so I looked at my companions more closely. I still wanted to study the mannerisms of each of them. They will follow me to this island, no matter how scary it is!

When we finished our hearty breakfast, and I made sure that my guests were satisfied. I finally decided to be curious. "Capper, can you fill us in on all these details now? Otherwise, the entire crew of the ship, now just a bunch of questions. How did you end up in this leaky boat? Thank God that we were able to notice you in time and come to the rescue. However, I am sure that such an unusual meeting is a sign of fate!" I said, and propping my chin on my hooves, I carefully studied the facial features of this cute cat.

Capper, of course, noticed this playful curiosity in my eyes, and was able to smile back. "First of all, Princess Amira, I want to thank all of you once again for saving me." Capper answered, and touched his medallion again.

I narrowed my eyes watching Capper, and my curiosity intensified even more. "Oh, by the way, what is this locket? Can I take a closer look at it? Otherwise, I have noticed more than once how you stroke this strange locket almost with trepidation and love."

Capper lowered his gaze, and removed this medallion from his neck, after which he handed it to me. "Well, Princess Amira, you have the right to know the whole truth. Actually, because of this medallion, I ended up in this sea, and you saved me. However, I want to let you into this story in more detail and from the very beginning. This will answer all your questions."

Starmore and Livardis sat patiently all this time and did not interfere in our conversation, giving Capper the opportunity to reveal his secret. Well, I took this medallion in my hooves and began to carefully study its drawings and inscriptions in some ancient and incomprehensible language.

I can confidently say that this locket was not only beautiful, but also seemed to have some magical properties. It had a Phoenix on it and a unicorn mare on the back. Hmm... it's a very strange combination, however, I could see some magical glow on both sides of this medallion. I think this thing is simply priceless! The age of this medallion was difficult to predict, but it seems that it is already more than a thousand years old! Well, that's, what we're about to find out.

I looked at Capper again, keeping a curious expression on my face. "It seems that this is a very expensive thing. I can feel the magical energy in this locket! Therefore, I won't distract you, and you can tell us your story." I said and handed the locket back.

However, Capper surprised us a lot. He just pushed this beautiful locket back in my direction, and looked into my eyes with love and gratitude. "Actually, I would really like you to accept this medallion from me as a gift. In gratitude for my salvation." Capper said, in a low, gentle voice.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and my eyes widened in surprise. I shifted my gaze from that locket to Capper. "Of course, I am touched by your attention and the fact that you want to give me a gift, but it seems to me that this thing is very dear to your heart! Therefore, I'm not quite sure about it..." I said in a slightly trembling voice.

Capper made an understanding face, and hurried to calm my doubts. "Princess Amira. I know what I'm doing. Therefore, you just have to hear my story, and then you will understand why I am giving you this precious locket. Besides, I'm sure you believe in the signs of fate, just like me. After all, you must understand perfectly well that our meeting with you is not an accident. I can see it in your eyes." Capper said in a mysterious voice.

Livardis brought his face closer and studied this mysterious medallion just as carefully. "Hmm... Well, Mr. Capper, this is really a great gift for a Princess, and I'm sure your story will be very interesting."

Starmore also did not stay away, and transferred his indifferent gaze from this medallion to Capper's weapon. "Well, it will be interesting for me to hear from you the details about your weapon. I would like to know the principle of the action of these pistoles."

Capper looked at both officers and smiled. "Then you need to be patient."

After these words, Capper made a serious face and lowered his gaze to this locket. "That was about eight hundred years ago..."

Story of Capper.

This story was written by my ancestor, about eight hundred years ago. To this day, this book is carefully kept in our family library. Every year, a unicorn from Equestria comes to us to update the charms on this book and increase its safety. Otherwise, this paper will just turn into dust.

My ancestor's name was Red Tail. He was a simple fisherman, and lived in a very poor village. He didn't have his own house, so he lived and worked for a local innkeeper. Sometimes, he would take out orders and fish for his kitchen. They didn't pay Red Tail so much, but they had enough to live on. Everything would be fine in his life, but his heart was pining and could not recognize the feeling of love. Local cats did not find a worthy male in him to start a family, but Red Tail had long ago resigned himself to such a fate and was not discouraged.

Yes, he did not show anyone what was going on in his soul, and every time he was alone, sadness tormented his soul.

"Why am I so unlucky?" Red Tail asked himself, and burying himself in the pillow, he tried to restrain himself from tears and drive away bad thoughts.

Time passed, and his life went on as usual. Fishing, help in the kitchen and cleaning the hotel. Harvesting firewood, and going to the forest for berries and herbs. Go to the market and make purchases, as the innkeeper asked him. All this made Red Tail think about the meaning of life many times.

On one of the cloudy, winter days, when clouds in the sky threatened to shed some rain on this arid land, the innkeeper asked Red Tail to go to the forest and collect firewood. Well, my ancestor is not used to evading his master's request. Anyway, he always had a roof over his head and free meals. What else does a poor, young cat need?

"Hmm... meow. A glass of valerian!" Red Tail answered himself, and not holding back from laughing, he took the cart out of the barn, took an axe, and went into the forest.

Although, in the lands of Abyssinia, there is no snow, but winter can be felt with its cold spells and rains. Well, it brought some relief to all Abyssinians, and those who lived in this small kingdom.

When Red Tail was finally able to chop wood and was about to return, when suddenly he heard a plaintive bird's voice. It was an unusual voice, in which there was a prayer and a request for help.

Red Tail began to turn around, trying to catch the sound of this cry, and after that he threw his cart, ran into the depths of the forest, taking an axe with him. "What could it be!? What an unusual cry..." Red Tail spoke, jumping over bushes and branches.

After a while, he noticed a small clearing... But what he could see made his heart skip a beat, his eyes widen in horror, and he start backing away, trying to save his life.

Three birds of prey pecked Phoenix! The charred remains of three more predators lay nearby. So this Phoenix was fighting for his life! But why do these birds attack the phoenix like crazy at all? There were a lot of questions in Red Tail's head. Most importantly, these birds looked like monsters! The feathers were pitch black, and the eyes burned with red magic fire, and the size of each monster was the same as that of an adult cat.

All three predators stopped their villainy, and turned a terrifying look at my ancestor. Fear took possession of Red Tail's consciousness, but when he turned his gaze to the poor Phoenix, who was pinned to the ground, and his feathers no longer blazed with ordinary fire. It was as if his magic had been weakened to the limit, and the Phoenix could no longer be himself. The phoenix was a victim in the clutches of three crazed monster birds.

Poor Phoenix, opened his beak slightly, and tried to say something, and there were tears and a plea for help in the eyes of this magnificent bird. Then Red Tail realized that perhaps, here and now, he will be able to find the answer to his question and understand what the meaning of his life is.

Gripping the axe tighter in his paws and baring his fangs, the Red Tail threw fear aside and looked into the eyes of every bird of prey. "It looks like you won't be able to have dinner! Get out of here while I give you this chance!" Shouted Red Tail, and carefully began to move towards these monsters.

The chances were not great, and Red Tail knew it perfectly well. Only he had already cast aside his doubts. Maybe he could at least distract them, and then the Phoenix could fly away. Although, it was noticeable that Fenx's health status were shabby, and perhaps the wounds on the wings would not allow him to fly away. It was a call of fate.

All three predators looked at each other, and releasing the poor Phoenix, flew into the air to attack the insolent. The impudent, who interfered with their plans, seeing such a sudden move from the enemy, abruptly fell to the ground, in a split second, before one of the monsters aimed its claws at him.

However, lying on the ground is not an option, and rolling onto his back, he swung the axe sharply when the second monster was already trying to pin him with its claws and strike with its beak. After a second, the head of this bird fell to the side, and black blood flowed from the body, and splattered the face of Red Tail.

"Damn It!" Red Tail growled, pushing off the corpse of this bird. "Heavy, bastard!"

The other two predators, seeing that their friend was lying without a head, began to emit ferocious screams, and their eyes lit up even more brightly with red magic fire. Red Tail managed to roll, just at the moment when a blow of magical dark energy cut the ground in that place. Dust and a disgusting stench of rot rose, which began to cause nausea and disoriented Red Tail.

He didn't have time to pick up and defend himself from another attack, as both predators attacked my ancestor and knocked him to the ground again.

"AAAY!" Red Tail screamed in pain when both birds began to peck at his paws, with which he covered his face. Every time he tried to wave the axe away, these birds reacted quickly and flew up into the air again.

This is what Red Tail decided to take advantage of, but his paws were bleeding, which brought him a lot of pain. These birds managed to hurt him very much. That's just a surge of adrenaline, eclipsed any pain, and in the head of Red Tail, there was a special mantra.

"I have to survive!" Red Tail spoke, and when both Predators attacked him again, he rolled over again.

The monsters saw this as a fun game, and did not miss their opportunity to mock. That's just, they were so distracted by Red Tail that they forgot about the Phoenix. One of the predators opened its beak slightly and aimed at the throat of the Red Tail. That's just Red Tail, having gained determination, and completely oblivious to the fact that his body was torn in several places, his paws were covered in blood, and another predator pinched him hard by the ear, leaving a laceration.

"Die, scum!" Hissed Red Tail, and grabbing the bird's head with his paws, squeezed his jaw and bit into the monster's throat with his fangs.

The squeak and cry of agony, as well as the rattle of a dying predator, is what pleased the hearing of Red Tail. A second later, the last predator clung with its beak to the shoulder of Red Tail, and tried to tear its body with its claws. However, the strength of Red Tail was already running out, but he did not let go of the throat of the defeated opponent. He felt that he could no longer fight, and the lacerations on his body, and traces of blood on the ground, are a clear sign that perhaps my ancestor lived the last seconds.

The pain began to manifest itself again in Red Tail's mind, and his grip on the dead bird's head loosened. His vision darkened, and he began to breathe his last breath... He fell completely exhausted, and the corpse of a dead bird fell on his stomach. Only at this moment, when he saw the monster's eyes... The last monster looked at the dying Red Tail, and enjoyed the sight of blood, but it didn't last long. Red Tail's ear twitched and mist appeared in his eyes, but he could still see a jet of fire flying into the head of the last monster. The familiar cry of the Phoenix was like a battle cry.

"AASHIE-IR!!!"

Although Red Tail was on the verge of losing consciousness, he still understood that he and Phoenix were the winners in this fight. Suddenly, he heard a sound similar to witchcraft, and quietly turning his head in the direction of the Phoenix, he smiled. What he saw seemed to him a real miracle.

A white unicorn mare of indescribable beauty hurriedly approached him, and bending down, used magic to lift the body of Red Tail. Tears flowed from her eyes when she saw that my ancestor was dying of blood loss.

Red Tail whispered his last words: "I have never seen such a beauty as you, in my life, but now I seem to be dying... However, I don't regret it..."

The unicorn mare took off a strange magic medallion from her neck, and hurried to hang this unknown artifact on the neck of Red Tail. "You saved me, and for that I'm giving you a Phoenix Medallion. You will be reborn again! Just don't give up hope!" The mare whispered, putting a lot of emotions and love into her voice.

At that moment, Red Tail's eyes began to glaze over, and his body went numb, but he could see how his body was enveloped in a magical aura. However, after that, he took his last breath and died...

His soul flew out of his body, and Red Tail looked at the whole dramatic picture with fear. "Am I dead?" He asked, but before he could finish the thought, a bright fiery flash flashed in front of him.

Red Tail was very scared at first, and after that he watched in amazement as a Phoenix hovered over his dead body. The same mare was standing next to his dead body, and was reciting some kind of prayer with her eyes closed. The Phoenix flew through his soul with a joyful cry, and the world in the circle of Red Tail faded again.

Abruptly opening his eyes, he experienced a strong shock when he realized that he was back in his body, but he was alive! "Aah!" Red Tail screamed in panic.

Abruptly jumping up on his paws, which slightly frightened the mare next to him, he saw the wings of the Phoenix fly out of his body and evaporate again, leaving behind the smell of new life. It is difficult to convey in words what my ancestor was experiencing at that moment, but he was reborn again!

Red Tail with wide-open eyes greedily inhaled the air and began to examine his body. Of course, there were no more wounds on his body, as if he had just come out of the bathroom.

Noticing this strange medallion on his neck, he lifted it with one paw and looked questioningly at the smiling mare. "Who are you, and what's going on?" Red Tail asked, not hiding his concern and curiosity.

However, the mare was a little embarrassed and turned her gaze to the corpses of birds of prey. "Maybe, we should leave here? Otherwise, this place is disgusting. On the way, I'll tell you everything. I believe that now that you have been able to help me and give me another chance in life, you have the right to know the truth."

Red Tail squinted and also turned his attention to the corpses of these birds, which now began to decompose at an unnatural rate. "Okay, I totally agree with you here. Can you at least tell me who these birds were? It's the first time in my life I've seen such horror, and to be honest, I was very scared."

So they did. Red Tail, seeing that this mare really has something to tell, and perhaps needs some help,invited her to the inn. He was sure that the innkeeper would not mind that they had an unusual guest. After all, ponies in this country are a real rarity, although rare traders from Equestria and Saddle Arabia still visited this village to purchase rare goods and stock up on fish for sailors-pegasi.

While Red Tail was still recovering from the incident, and was driving the cart in the direction of the village, the mare did not lag behind him. It was very noticeable that she really wanted to be in the company of her savior, and her grateful and sweet expression on her face only pleasantly warmed the soul of my ancestor. He didn't mind his new friend either, especially since it was a beautiful and mysterious mare.

However, the mare did not make Red Tail suffer from curiosity. "My name is Fiery Heart. These birds of prey were enchanted by dark magic to chase me and take away this precious medallion, and of course, to kill me... What is your name, my savior?"

Such words confused my ancestor a little, but he was able to smile and give his answer: "My name is Red Tail. Yes, I already realized that the moment I saw all this unusual sight. However... this still leaves a lot of confusion for me. Were you able to set fire to three more demonic birds? More precisely, it was already four. But how and why did you lose your magic, and couldn't deal with other demonic predators? In general, I think you can understand me. I don't see such unusual miracles every day. My life is simple and not whimsical, and one day everything changes. I wasn't even prepared for the fact that I would have to fight with these crazed demonic creatures!" Red Tail replied.

Fiery Heart shook her head and was able to smile. "Yes, I was able to fight them until they weakened me and my second self with their dark magic. However, I still want to be grateful to you for helping me. I'll tell you the truth about myself, but in return, I want to ask you something else." Said Fiery Heart and ran around Red Tail, to be in front of him.

Red Tail stopped and looked questioningly at this mare. "What do you want to ask me? I'm not sure... Although I would no doubt like to help you, in any way I can." Red Tail answered and shyly smiled looking into the face of a beautiful mare.

The fact that he found her attractive to his eyes, and the fact that fate had unexpectedly brought these two souls together, was something of a sign. This is what should have changed the fate of both. Red Tail, was not a fool and could understand such signs.

The mare noticed the interested look of my ancestor, and decided that this was a great chance. "I will tell you my secret, but you must remember that this information can be dangerous for you and your loved ones. This medallion has three magical properties. You've already met one of them personally. However, Aura of Phoenix does not give you immortality, and this medallion is able to please its owner only once. I saw that you were dying, and I didn't want that. That's why I gave you this locket as a gift from my heart. The second ability of this medallion is the fiery Aura of Phoenix. Try it yourself, touch this medallion and concentrate on target." Said Fiery Heart in a teaching voice and pointed with her hoof at an old dry stump.

Red Tail looked skeptically at this mare and scratched his head. "Uhm... Are you saying that this locket gives me the ability to use destructive magic? I... I... I can set fire to this stump?" Red Tail asked, stuttering slightly with excitement.

Fiery Heart smiled broadly and shook her head affirmatively. "Yeah! Why don't you try it? Just don't get carried away! I'm not giving you a weapon, but it's something that can protect you and your loved ones if you're in danger." The mare answered and looked at Red Tail with playful hope in her eyes.

"Oh, that might really make sense. Well..." Said Red Tail and looking at this old stump, touched his medallion with his paw.

After a few seconds, his body was covered with magical energy, which began to pulsate violently in his right paw. Then he realized that it was his paw that would be the one to release the fiery jet.

A grimace appeared on his face, and his eyes lit up with a fiery light, he pointed his paw towards this rotten stump, and without expecting it, he shouted: "AASHIE-IR!!!" In an instant, a fiery jet burst out of his paw, which set fire to this stump.

Adrenaline boiled in the blood of my ancestor, and a victorious smile appeared on his face. He began to realize that this power could open up many opportunities for him.

Fiery Heart noticed this, and angrily shook her head. "No! Red Tail, you mustn't let your mind get clouded. You have to calm down, otherwise you can hurt yourself, and this magical ability will stop working. Especially if some selfish goal appears in your heart. Don't forget about it!"

Red Tail squeezed his eyes shut and took several deep breaths. "Yes, you're right. Then, tell me about the third ability of this medallion."

After these words, Fiery Heart bowed her head and sadness appeared in her eyes. It was noticeable that some memories were disturbing her soul a little. However, she did not leave my ancestor unanswered. "Where I came from... my children stayed there. I can't tell you much, but I'm sure that in time you and or your descendants will be able to understand the true reason. It is even possible to visit my house and my children. This medallion is able to reveal to the eye what is hidden by magic. It is thanks to this medallion that you can get to a secret, forbidden island. An island that in the future sailors will call "Peak of Fear"! This place is home to my children. The children who were born from the love union between me and the great dragon. A dragon who is the lord of the elements. His name is Raiden. We loved each other so much that the Higher Powers noticed it and gave us the opportunity to have children. Children who will have their own special destiny for this world. We call them Kirins. Which means Masculine and Feminine. Outwardly, they look like unicorn ponies, but they have their own uniqueness and differences. Their backs have dragon scales, and their hooves are forked. The kirin horn is also different from the unicorn horn." After these words, happiness and love appeared on the face of Fiery Heart again. "Open this locket. There is an image of kirin, and you will understand what my children look like. My foals."

All this information that Red Tail heard stunned his mind even more, but he hurried to do what the mare asked him to do. Opening this medallion, he saw that the same kirin was depicted on one of the sides. On the other side was a drawing of some island and inscriptions in an old and unknown language.

"Hmm... Indeed, I have never seen such ponies before... um... sorry. I wanted to tell, Kirin! They look like ponies, but their tails and manes... I have to admit that you have beautiful foals. But this world doesn't even know about the existence of a new intelligent species?" Red Tail asked.

The mare shook her head and made a serious expression. "No, but when the time comes, this secret will be revealed, and this world will know a lot of truth. The existence of Kirins will cease to be a mystery. But it's not that simple. No one can get to this island! Except in special cases, and with the help of powerful teleportation magic, it is possible to overcome the protective magical layer that surrounds this island. All this was done with a special plan of the Higher Powers, but I don't want to tell you exactly why. The time will come and you will understand everything yourself. However, tell me that you will not spread this secret, and only pass this medallion and all this information to your descendants. I'm also asking you, and this is a prerequisite... I want you or your descendants to give this medallion to someone who can save your life, you or your descendants! Do it from the heart, just like I did to you." Fiery Heart said and stared intently into the eyes of Red Tail.

Red Tail closed this locket again, and realizing all the responsibility that falls on his shoulders, he nodded decisively. "Yes, I promise, and I do it for my descendants, that I will definitely fulfill your will!"

The mare smiled again. "That's great! Besides, I believe that in the distant future, this will happen. Your descendants will always fulfill the role of guardians of the Phoenix Medallion with honor and dignity. I have to warn you. If you want to visit this secret island, don't take anyone with you. You have to be alone, and most likely it will be dangerous. However, if you can get to this island alive and find the Kirin city hidden in the woods there, my children will be able to recognize you as a friend if they see this medallion."

Red Tail again took a deep breath and looked at the sky, realized that rain would start in the next few minutes. "We have to hurry. It's going to rain now, and I don't want to get wet. So let's go faster! You, must be hungry?" Red Tail asked and took this cart in his paws again.

After that, they hurriedly left the forest and headed towards the village. An unusual couple. He is an Abyssinian, she is a Mysterious unicorn mare.

Fiery Heart looked at Red Tail, and her eyelashes blinked coquettishly. "Heh... Actually, I'm not going to lie, but I really want to eat! I flew to this island for several days until I was exhausted. Yes, and to answer your unasked question, I do have the magical ability to transform into a Phoenix, and I don't need a medallion for that. However, this locket holds a piece of my soul and magic. Therefore, take care of my gift. Because, I can say with confidence that by your act, you were at least able to penetrate into my heart, and remind me of what sacrificial love is..."

These words pleasantly warmed the soul of my ancestor, and his confidence that he would fulfill his promise to this mare became even stronger.

The innkeeper allowed Red Tail to accept this mare as his guest. Fiery Heart promised that she would not burden anyone with her presence, and even diligently helped in the kitchen, along with Red Tail. Whether these two have found feelings of love for each other, it is impossible to say for sure. Although what is written in the following part indicates that there was a possible and emotional closeness between them. However, on the following pages, there are still drops of tears soaked into the paper.

About a month has passed, and this mysterious mare has become something of a good luck charm for this hotel. Many travelers, having heard about such a rarity, wanted to stay in this hotel. This of course had a good effect on the profit, so the owner of the hotel was very happy and thanked the Fiery Heart, making various compliments to her. Sometimes he relieved Red Tail and Fiery Heart from work and gave them time to be alone. Maybe they even went and swam in the sea.

Yes, it was like the love between Cat and Mare, which caused happiness in some, and criticism in others. There were also those who accused my ancestor of being a lazy and unlucky cat who could not find a decent mate among other cats. Of course, there was a lot of contempt and envy in these words. That's just Red Tail did not pay attention to these words and was happy in the company of a beautiful mare.

Of course, he still asked a lot of questions, but he didn't always get a straight answer. Instead, Fiery Heart made a loving expression on her face, and there was a lot of passion in her eyes. Of course, it was a fail-safe weapon that Red Tail could not resist.

One day he asked a question that had been tormenting him for some time: "I'm sorry if my question doesn't seem quite decent to you, but still... I'm very curious, how old are you?"

Fiery Heart brought her face closer so that Red Tail began to feel her breath on his nose. It was a very passionate and playful behavior of this beautiful mare. Of course, sometimes it confused my ancestor, but not when they were alone in one of the hotel rooms.

"If I give you an answer, won't you be afraid of me?" Asked Fiery Heart and lightly kissed Red Tail on the lips, all the while not taking her playful eyes off him.

"Mmm... meow... oh... Damn it, you're always so fond of answering my questions. I like it, but I promise you that I won't be afraid of your age. I know that there is a princess living in Equestria who is more than four hundred years old! Celestia! You know her, don't you?" Red Tail spoke in a cheerful voice and gently stroked the mane of his beloved mare.

Fiery Heart giggled sweetly, and hugged my ancestor with her hooves, after which she brought her mouth to his ear. "Would you believe that I'm over a thousand years old? More precisely, I am one thousand one hundred and forty-three years old. Of course I know Celestia and Luna, but I haven't met them personally. I had my own destiny. You already know a lot about me." Fiery Heart whispered, and slowly licked Red Tail in his ear.

Needless to say, what did my ancestor feel at the moment when he found out the true age of this mare, whom he hugged so lovingly? Of course, this made Red Tail look at this mare in shock. However, after they talked, he was able to find out for himself that Fiery Heart left her home on the mysterious island in order to find the soul of the one who loved her until her death. She was talking about that dragon, the lord of the elements, named Raiden. But she claimed it had been three hundred years since he died.

Then Red Tail asked about how this mare is going to find someone who is no longer in this world! This mare's answer was as mysterious as anything she had told him before. She assured him that her lover had not left this world, he had simply been reborn in a new body, and his soul would definitely remember his past life. All because he was blessed by Higher Powers. Of course, all this surprised my ancestor more than once, because he discovered more and more secrets of this world. That's how he learned about what Reincarnation is! However, he trusted Fiery Heart, and understood her. He felt in his heart that his nascent love for this mysterious mare would soon cause him a lot of pain. Because she will leave him and go in search of her lover, and Red Tail will be left alone again.

Well, Fiery Heart perfectly felt these emotions and the mental suffering of the one to whom she gave the Phoenix Medallion, and united a piece of her soul with this good-natured cat. She saw the sadness in Red Tail's eyes and tried to comfort him, promising to return to him, in this life or in another. When she said these words, it only caused fear and despair in the heart of my ancestor even more, but the loving gaze of Fiery Heart gave him hope. Time passed, and they were laughing and hugging again, as if they had been lovers for a long time.

At some point, Fiery Heart began to feel a strong attachment to Red Tail, and decided to give him another gift. She cut a curl from her fiery-red mane, and put this curl in a locket.

Two more weeks passed and spring was approaching. Fiery Heart promised that she would not stay in this hotel for long. That's just every day, all the employees of the hotel began to notice that this mysterious mare was like a fading flower! Her strength was weakening, and old wrinkles appeared on her face. The mane was losing its color, and the look became more and more lifeless.

When Red Tail got worried and asked her what was happening to her and why she was getting old so suddenly, she just smiled in response.

Fiery Heart was lying in bed, and looked very sickly. The owners of the hotel had already gone to the nearest city himself to find doctors, but it was worse than a hopeless attempt.

Red Tail with fear and overflowing emotions from love to despair, bent over this mare and kissed her hooves. He shed his tears at the realization of this terrible and tormenting thought. This once beautiful mare has lived a long life, and right now something is causing her body to age strongly and quite quickly. She was dying...

Fiery Heart stroked Red Tail's cheek with her hoof, and tears also glistened in her eyes, but she was smiling. "I'm sorry, Red Tail... It seems my time is coming to an end, and I have to be reborn in a new body. I'm sorry that I won't be able to please you with my company anymore... and my loving kisses. Don't forget me, and remember everything I told you... Goodbye, my beloved, Red Tail..." The mare whispered in a hoarse voice, and after that her body instantly turned into a pile of ashes.

Red Tail could have sworn that at that moment he heard the exultant voice of the Phoenix in his head.

What happened after that, I can't tell it without tears anymore, because I feel the suffering of my ancestor. The pain in his heart from the loss of the one he fell in love with. Therefore, I will end this part of my story at this point. Since then, my ancestor fulfilled the covenant of this mare, and gave this knowledge and this Phoenix Medallion by inheritance to his children. And I am a direct proof that on this day, I am marked with the sign of fate! Because, I was able to fulfill the will of this mare, and gave the Phoenix Medallion to my savior.

Now, I want to tell you about how I ended up in this sea.

I live in the port city of Kaliblis. More precisely, my ancestors and their descendants have always lived there. Since time has passed, my ancestors were able to get rich by opening their own hotel. Over time, this hotel has become even bigger, and the service has improved. I am the owner of such a hotel, together with my older sister.

However, this is not the most important thing. The truth is that this very legend and the story of my family, like this mysterious Phoenix Medallion, began to attract the attention of tourists. Therefore, we decided to open a small museum in which this artifact and the book of my ancestor were kept. We even had to hire security guards to protect our family heirloom from the temptation of possible intruders.

However, such news eventually began to spread and attract even more attention. Of course, all this had a positive impact on our business, but my sister and I did not hide our concern. Then the fun begins.

About twelve days ago, an unusual pony came to our hotel. More precisely, it was a zebra stallion. To be honest, I rarely saw zebras in our lands. However, he looked very noble and well-groomed. He was wearing a shiny cloak with some strange markings. He did not give his name, and immediately asked me to show him this medallion and tell the story of my ancestor.

I felt some mystery in this stallion, but he had a kind look, and he showed a bag of gold coins, and wanted to spend three days in our hotel. Well, I exchanged glances with my sister, and shrugging my shoulders, agreed to fulfill his request. My sister entered the name of this mysterious guest in the visitors' book and arranged for him in one of the best rooms. It's a strange name for this stallion, but I didn't talk about it, after all, he was from Zebrabwe. His name was Srilaka, and as it turned out later, he was something of a traveling merchant, and sold rare enchanted things. Artifacts of various purposes.

This naturally alerted me, because I was afraid that he would start persuading me to sell the Phoenix Medallion. Even if he offers a fortune.

I told him this story and, at his request, showed him this locket. He immediately gave a magnifying glass and began to stare at every detail in the image of the Phoenix and the Unicorn Mare on the reverse side. Then he opened this locket, and when he saw a lock of hair from Fiery Heart mane, he looked into my eyes with surprise and awe.

"It's just wonderful! It's not every day you meet such a legendary artifact! Do you even understand its true value?" Srilaka asked, continuing to examine the inscriptions in the ancient language and the drawing depicting kirin.

I made an impenetrable face and crossed my paws on my chest. "Yes, I understand the value of this Locket, but I immediately want to warn you that I will not sell it..." I said in a calm voice, but I could not hide my suspicion.

Of course Srilaka noticed this and hastened to reassure me: "There is no need to think of me as a mere merchant. I believe that this artifact is a priceless relic for you and your family. Moreover, this story sounds like the real truth and at the same time very mysterious. Okay, I won't lie. I really would like to acquire this artifact, but not because of its magical properties. All this time, you and your ancestors owned more than just an artifact... This is a key that can open an invisible gate..." Srilaka spoke, putting mystery into his voice.

That's just, I rolled my eyes, and decided to interrupt him, although it might not be very polite on my part. "Yes, yes, I know the abilities of this Medallion. The Phoenix Medallion is able to show an invisible passage through the magical anomalies that surround the island of "Peak of Fear". That's just my ancestor does not mention in his story that he decided on this dangerous journey. He had too many worries," I said and stared intently into the calm, even smiling face of this stallion.

Srilaka shook his head and made a sly smile. "That's the problem! If he had found out the truth that this mysterious mare, Fiery Heart, had hidden from Red Tail, then I am sure that he would have given up everything and sailed to this island. It's not even about the Kirin tribe, about which there is so little information to this day. Only small rumors and fairy tales recorded by marine researchers who were able to see those Kirins from their ships. The thing is that these records speak of powerful crystals, which are called Elements of Nature! Fire, Water, Earth, Air. These magic crystals are so powerful that they are able to grant their owner natural power. Just imagine for a minute if you have at least one crystal. For example, it will be the Crystal of the Earth Element! You will be able to control this element at your discretion, make the soil in your kingdom the most fertile, and then this kingdom will not know what Hunger is! Now, do you understand me, Capper?" Srilaka asked me, looking into my dazed, thoughtful face.

This information really made me stand in thought for three whole minutes, and during this time Srilaka was patient, continuing to examine the Phoenix Medallion. What if this stud is telling the truth? But why is he telling me this? It seems he is still hoping for something, I feel there is some kind of catch.

I shook my head and looked at our mysterious guest with a serious face. "Let's say I believe what you're telling me, but why are you sharing almost priceless information with me?"

Srilaka also looked at me with a serious face, and tried to build a trusting relationship with me. "Yes, you are right in your reasoning. I'm really telling you all this for a reason." He held out the Phoenix Medallion, and I carefully took it with my paw, after which I noticed how his side of the Phoenix slightly flashed with magical energy, which does not happen so often; as if this medallion wants to warn me about something.

"Then you'd better tell me the whole truth. I can see by your eyes that you don't want to miss your chance," I replied, and without taking my gaze off Srilak, I put this medallion in a glazed drawer.

Srilaka cleared his throat and went to the guest table, after which he sat down on one of the saddle cushions that we keep especially for ponies or zebras. "Shall we have some tea before I tell you, about my plans?" Srilaka said, putting his hooves on the table.

Well, whoever this stallion from Zebrabwe is, but he is still our guest, who paid well to stay in our hotel for three days. So I nodded and tried to put on a welcoming smile. After that, I left our museum room, which is also a family library. Phoenix Medallion, for the first time in a long time, showed its magical activity. I still remember that this Locket contains a piece of the soul of Fiery Heart. Only a few times have I seen such a glow, as if reminding me of myself and a possible change in fate.

This happened ten years ago, before my father went to Equestria with a merchant ship to place an order with magicians. Remember what I told you about the unicorn coming to us and updating the charms for this family book, which contains the legendary story of my ancestor. So, as my sister and I later learned, on the way back this ship got into a storm. The ship survived, but had a lot of damage, but several sailors were washed away by the sea wave. It was, of course, very terrible. My father survived, but on the next day of the sea voyage, a new disaster happened... Pirates!

Pirates attacked this weakly protected Sloop, and took all passengers and merchants hostage. A few days later, we were sent a letter demanding a ransom. The amount of money was quite large, but my sister was able to find help from the mayor of the city and took a bank loan. We managed to collect this money, and then my uncle (my father's brother) went to the meeting place with the pirates. The pirates really did not deceive us and my father was able to return home, although his nerves and psyche were undermined. It did not improve the situation that a few years ago my mother, who loved freedom very much, sailed with one of the captains, who was engaged in chartering his ship and transporting merchants' goods to different ports. It's a very lucrative business, and he had a good Pinnace to transport cargo. However, a few months later we learned that this ship was attacked by several pirate ships. YES! PIRATES AGAIN! If you only knew how much I hate these bastards! They... they not only enslaved this ship, but also took my mother, so that the crew of the pirate ship could have a good time with the Abyssinian Cat!

Damn it! It's hard for me to even think about it. I did not blame my mother for her choice, although I sometimes missed her. That's just her fate is already unknown, and our search was not successful. Of course, my family was worried about this, but life did not stop, and we had to be ready to survive these troubles. At that time, our hotel business did not bring much income, and we still had to pay off the debt in the bank. Pay the loan.

Therefore, my father had no choice but to get a job in the navy of our kingdom. Based on the fact that he already had experience in the army, as a musketeer, he was gladly accepted. So he wanted to try to find our mother, and perhaps avenge all the atrocities of these vile pirates. That's just, over time, he found out that our authorities do not conduct aggressive tactics against pirates, because the Admiral of the Coastal Brotherhood always gave a good monetary contribution. Of course, our King Boriggar II often turned a blind eye to these pirates, especially if it had a good effect on the royal treasury. Damn bastard! However, I can't do anything about it, like other ordinary Abyssinians. We just had to put up with our king's policies.

Thus, piracy is not encouraged, but it is not condemned either. However, in order to create a kind of decency on the world stage, in front of other kingdoms, sometimes our fleet fights back against pirates, but never takes more active actions. Our fleet is not trying to find all pirate bases and take them by storm. And even if there were such attempts, our ships failed... For several hundred years, the pirates had already well-fortified bases, and even their own settlements, where they lived. Their fleet increased, and the armament of the ships improved. So don't think this is the first time I've seen such guns on this ship. However, they don't have such big ships. These are mainly high-speed Galleons and Brigs, well, maybe a few Frigates. Pirates have so much money that they can afford a lot. So by this time, they had become the very force to be reckoned with. Heh, but the funny thing is that sometimes pirates start a feud among themselves.

But the neighboring kingdoms, for some reason, do not want to interfere in this piracy crisis, obviously realizing that this can be difficult. In addition, it is one of the sources of such a weak kingdom as Abyssinia. Although, I think it's all nonsense! We could well have ended these problems if we had teamed up with Saddle Arabia, for example, and kicked the ass of these pirates, ending this threat once and for all. Only I suspect that our king may well start sponsoring a new pirate fleet himself by hiring any kind of rabble in Klugetown! Yes! Yes! It is all these... brr... the inhabitants of this anarchic state become pirates if they fail to make money from smuggling or trading rare goods. They can be understood because there are not many rich resources in their desert, and the city itself is controlled by the leaders of criminal gangs. However, all this time Klugetown remained neutral with all the kingdoms, and even encouraged trade in its port. Of course, under such conditions, the local authorities collected trade duties.

When I returned from the kitchen to our library and brought tea and other treats, I immediately turned my attention to the fact that Srilaka was walking near the bookshelves and studying our family books. Well, that was normal for me.

Srilaka turned around when he saw me and smiled mysteriously. "Ah, here you are, Mr. Capper! I decided to explore your library a little while you were in the kitchen. Do you mind?" Srilaka asked, and went back to the table to sit on the saddle cushion.

I put a tray with a tea set on this table and sat down in an armchair, decided to get right to the point. "No, I don't mind if you show an interest in books. However, I made tea, and brought cakes, cookies, and what we usually cook for ponies. Sandwiches with cucumbers and fried hay. Would you like such a treat, or should I make sure that the cook cooks something special? Besides, I am sure that you are not in a hurry, and we are waiting for a business conversation." I said in a serious voice, however, I noticed how at the last words, the eyes of this stallion sparkled with hope.

Srilaka grinned slightly and stretched out his hooves to the cup of tea. "Thank you, Mr. Capper. I am quite satisfied with such a treat. I didn't hope for the best, besides, I admit, I had to stay in different hotels, and you certainly have excellent service compared to others." He took a couple of sips, and with a grateful smile continued to express his thought: "I have a feeling that I was able to interest you with this information about this legendary Phoenix Medallion. As far as I have already understood, you will not sell it to me. And you're damn right about that! So I can understand you. However, I still have a very interesting offer for you." After these words, he took another sip of tea, and carefully watched me, expecting a lot of curiosity from me.

Well, he's really right. I was intrigued, but at the same time, I feel wary. "Hmm... and what is this offer?" I asked, and also started drinking tea.

"It's quite simple. Why don't you come with me to this island, which is called "Peak of Fear", we will also take one interesting mare with us on this trip. Together, we will try to solve the mystery of this island and possibly find at least one of the crystals! And of course, we may be the lucky ones who will meet and get acquainted with those very Kirins! Just imagine such possibilities. It will be a very interesting journey. Anyway, I'm sure that you just need to visit somewhere else besides your city and this hotel." Srilaka replied, and pointed with his hoof at the window.

I turned my gaze to this window, or rather to the sea, which was visible from this window. I was thinking inside myself, and I couldn't deny myself one important fact. Srilaka was right. However, I still felt a sense of anxiety, which was mixed with the inner excitement of possible adventures. "I.. I think you're right, Mr. Srilaka." I looked at him again with an interested face. "However, you mentioned a third participant in our upcoming adventure. Who is this mare?"

Srilaka breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that he had managed to interest me, and perhaps his plans still have great benefits for the fulfillment of his goal. Although I already understood his purpose. He just needs at least one crystal of the elements of nature.

"In fact, I thought that I would have to persuade a lot further. And yet you are right, to agree..."

I interrupted him, and looked at him skeptically. "Stop! I haven't said YES to your offer yet. Therefore, I would like to know all the details before I go with you to this island."

"Yes, you're doing the right thing, Capper, that you behave cautiously with an unfamiliar guest in your hotel. I understand you perfectly, and I'm not going to hide my plans from you. I'll even say more. In fact, I have been looking for opportunities to come to Abyssinia for a long time. Because rumors from various merchants have already spread that there is a hotel in this port city. And the owner of this hotel is the owner of a rare medallion. However, all these merchants and travelers did not understand the true value of this medallion. Then I decided to check these rumors myself and went from Equestria to Abyssinia. Yes, yes, I was coming to you purposefully, and the same mare, who is my old friend, is also in this city. By the way, she should come soon, she just decided to walk around the local market. Her name is Daring Do."

"Wait! Are you talking about a character in a famous series of adventure books? Don't mess with my head!" I answered when I heard such an absurdity. It looks like I brought too strong tea.

Srilaka laughed, clutching his hoof to his chest. "Hahah! Don't you believe me? By the way, I noticed three copies of these books about Daring Do on your shelf. Aah... I assure you that this is a very real mare, and soon you will see for yourself. However, she doesn't like to talk about it to anyone, and prefers to be called Irling. She doesn't like excessive attention to herself, and I understand her perfectly. Well, what about the fact that she is an excellent specialist in the extraction of valuable artifacts, should I mention? I can see by your eyes, glowing with love, that you wouldn't mind getting to know this charming mare. She's actually my partner. She is searching for artifacts on my order, and I am looking for interested buyers and selling them. However, recently, we haven't had any artifacts worth much attention. Sometimes, we give these artifacts to museums..."

I frowned slightly after hearing all these words, but the realization that I would personally see this famous mare played out a little in my imagination. No, of course, I'm not a fan of this writer, and a character named Daring Do, but nevertheless, I find a lot of interesting things in her. Besides, I think that Equestria ponies really have something that attracts me. Perhaps such an attraction came to me from my ancestor, so I wouldn't mind getting to know her personally. When else will there be such an opportunity?

"So sometimes your business is not always clean? Ah, of course, I can understand you... Well, I am very interested in your offer, and I would very much like to personally meet Miss Daring Do. Now, tell me in detail how we should make our trip to this island? Otherwise, I'm sure it will cost quite a bit of money to hire a ship and crew." I said, and dreamily turned my gaze to this sea outside the window.

Srilaka made a thoughtful face, and scratched his chin with a hoof. "I don't think there is a need to hire a ship for our journey. You must understand and remember that this is a very responsible mission. In addition, do not forget about the instruction of Fiery Heart, for your ancestor. She did not just warn that it was better not to attract too much attention to this island. Do you understand me?" Srilaka asked, and started drinking his tea again, keeping a serious expression on his face.

"Okay, I can agree with you here, but then what do you suggest?"

Srilaka narrowed his eyes and looked at me as if he was in a trance. "Do you think we can manage a small ship? I saw at the local shipyard there is one Lugger for sale. The price is quite reasonable, and the ship itself is inconspicuous and fast. Just what we need! Of course, if we don't get caught in a storm, but Miss Daring Do will be with us. We can avoid weather problems. What do you say?" Srilaka asked, and looked at me with hope and excitement on his face.

Author's notes: Lugger is a light ship that had from two to three masts, and was used mainly for courier service, patrol or reconnaissance.

I almost choked on my tea when I realized what this madman was saying! "Are you seriously saying this now?! Us just three, on Lugger? Take my word for it, even if you consider that I sometimes sail with merchants to neighboring ports, and I have already sailed on Lugger, at least eight sailors should serve this ship! Are you suggesting that we don't sleep for three days and three nights until we get to this island? Oh, and that's just one little problem. You forget about the pirates, who, no matter how strange it may sound, just keep their port bases about fifty kilometers from the island of "Peak of Fear". You don't have to be smart to understand our risks. Now, I understand why my ancestors have not visited this island until now. This is just a dangerous idea! Well, it's also out of the question to hire a small airship! Because these pirates, as far as I've heard, have their own competitors... Yes, we are talking about air pirates! These Parrots are no less dangerous personalities! Damn it, but at the same time you're right, and we can't involve anyone else in this adventure. Unfortunately, I have no trusted friends among the sailors..." I finished my indignant speech, and getting up from the table, began to walk around this room with my paws crossed behind my back.

However, my excitement was obvious, and Srilaka certainly noticed it. "Mr. Capper. I completely understand your excitement. I swear, I completely agree with you, but at the same time I think that all these risks can be justified! In addition, I have several potions that act as a stimulant for the body. Here, only at the expense of pirates, you are unfortunately right..." After these words, he got up from the table and went to the window, began to peer at the sea and the port market. "This may be the only chance for my country... Therefore, I would not like to miss this chance." Srilaka said in a low voice.

I stopped and frowned at the back of this stallion's head. "What are you talking about?"

Srilaka turned his head and looked at me with a lifeless gaze. "I'm saying that if I had at least one chance to get a Crystal of the Water Element, then I would be able to rid my country of the arid climate. Zebras were finally able to get the opportunity to engage in agriculture, not only on the shores of the Lunar Sea. Yes, we zebras can be quite hardy and use water sparingly, but this is what torments us. Thirst. If I could have at least one of these crystals, then most likely I would have found a worthy use for them to help someone. And it doesn't matter who it will be; zebras, ponies, griffins, hippogriffs, minotaurs, diamond dogs, Abyssinians..."

"Yes, yes... I have already understood about your good intentions and all that, but this does not negate the fact that this journey may be the last for each of us. Maybe we'd better get ready after all? When do you plan to leave?" I asked, and also went to this window, but my ear twitched when I heard voices from the lobby of our hotel.

Srilaka smiled and nodded. "Ah, I think we'll discuss our issues now, in the company of Miss Irling. I recognize her voice." Srilaka replied, and headed for the lobby.

My heart started skipping beats, and to be honest, I feel a lot of excitement. "It looks like I need to ask my sister to allocate the best room for our guests." I said in a low voice and taking a deep breath, followed Srilaka to meet Miss Irling.

When I saw this mare, I could hardly contain my admiration. Miss Irling didn't look like her character from the book. However, I could understand her, she just wants to hide her appearance, so she wears these glasses, and covers her marks on her hips with a cloak. Heh, I'm still surprised by this magical phenomenon of all ponies.

She looked a little tired, most likely due to a sleepless night on the ship, but the excitement of the upcoming adventure gave her an additional boost of cheerfulness. Anyway, I expected to see her in a traditional cork hat, and a green vest. However, she had a saddlebag, and most likely very heavy.

I bowed politely, but decided not to show myself so aristocratic, so as not to embarrass this mare, and give her the opportunity to feel at ease in my company. "Welcome to our hotel, Miss Irling. My name is Capper. Now my sister will write your name in the guest book, and I will help carry your things to the room. And forgive me for being blunt... but Equestria ponies don't come to our hotel every day, so you should understand my interest in you as our guest." I said, and smiled a little.

Miss Irling was indeed a charming mare, so she smiled back too. "Thank you, Mr. Capper." She began to turn her hoof slightly near her face, and slightly rolled her eyes. "I hope that at least here I will have a chance to avoid all these formalities. I was happy to leave Equestria, at the invitation of my friend, Srilaka." After these words, she made a conspiratorial face, and whispered: "I'm tired of fans who ask me for an autograph! Sometimes it crossed all boundaries. At one of the meetings, when I released another book, and met at the mall selling books from a new series, one of the fans crept up to me from the side, and pulled the feather out of my wing! I think you can understand me, what have I been experiencing lately?"

My eye twitched and I made a grimace on my face, as if expressing my sympathy for the problems of this mare. "Yeah... I think I understand you, Miss Irling. If you want, we will register you in our hotel under an anonymous or pseudonymous name. I would really like you to feel more at ease for the period of your stay in the hotel. I can even close the hotel for new visitors..."

Irling frowned, and shook her head negatively. "No, no, no! You shouldn't make such sacrifices for me. I assure you, Mr. Capper, that I am all right. Moreover, I can notice that I am not as popular in Abyssinia as in Equestria. When I was walking around the market, I was not bothered by local citizens. And I will tell you more, it always seemed to me that the Abyssinians actually have an unpredictable and sometimes barbaric character. Today I personally made sure that this is not the case! All cats behave more than culturally and unobtrusively. When I was looking for various equipment for hiking conditions in the forest or on a sea trip, the sellers were happy to offer me inexpensive, but high-quality goods. Although I am a little tired, I would still really like to drink a good tea and listen to your famous story." After these words, she lifted her glasses with her hoof, and with a smile on her face, winked coquettishly at me, which of course aroused even more interest in me. "I think it's going to be very interesting, Mr. Capper."

Well, after our guests were registered, my sister was able to arrange our guests on the top floor in one of the best rooms, which had all the amenities. I went back to the library to pick up my ancestor's book again... and three more books of adventures of Daring Do, so that this writer would leave me an autograph! Heheh. Yes, I will be a happy cat at this moment, and I think she will be able to make an exception for me. And of course, I took the Phoenix Medallion. While my sister was checking the cooks' work in the kitchen, I, in the company of our guests, decided to move our business conversation to their room.

Five minutes later, we were already in a room with two beds and one bathroom. Srilaka and Irling specifically asked for one room for two, since they were friends, and it would be convenient for them to discuss their plans while in the same room. I put the book and the locket on the table, and at that moment Miss Irling was taking off her clothes and unpacking her luggage. I wasn't particularly interested in what she had in her bags, but how she began to stretch her tired body and spread her wings... To be honest, Srilaka and I pretended that we were not watching this mare.

Miss Irling, being completely naked, was stretching her tired limbs and back. After that, she moved away from the closet, and when she saw our falsely innocent faces, she looked skeptically at each of us. I think I can guess what she's thinking about us right now. "What? Have you both been staring at me all this time?" Irling asked, and keeping her face impassive, she took a deep breath. "Okay, I'm just burning with impatience to hear this story, Mr. Capper." Irling said and went to the table, sat down on the saddle pillow.

I smiled a little, but I couldn't stop myself from looking at this mare again with an appraising look. When our eyes met, I got a little nervous and my ears started twitching, as well as the tail, which betrayed my excitement. However, I think you can understand me?

"Just, Capper, if you can. We are going to have an adventure together, and I suggest that we simplify our communication as soon as possible." I answered and pushed the Phoenix Medallion towards Irgling.

Miss Irling tactfully pretended not to notice that I was almost making love to her with just one glance. She shifted her gaze from me to this locket, and assumed a thoughtful look when she took the Phoenix Locket in her hooves. "Hmm... Well, then you can call me Irling or Daring Do. I don't care, I'm used to having two names." She looked at our companion, Srilaka, and stretched out her left hoof to him. "Srilaka, give me your magnifying glass, please. I see that this is a very interesting specimen."

Srilaka nodded and pulled out a magnifying glass from the pocket of his cloak and put it on Irling's hoof. "Yes, I have already been able to verify this myself. This is indeed the legendary Phoenix Medallion, which is only in one copy, as far as it is known. There are interesting images and inscriptions. I've already been able to decipher them." Srilaka said, and after looking at me, he slightly nodded his chin in the direction of Irling, then winked at me conspiratorially with a sly smile.

Yes, I already understood what this stallion wants to say. It really seems to me that our upcoming adventure will be more interesting in the company of this mare. Of course, from this, my doubts were finally dispelled.

While Irling continued to carefully study this medallion, I told the story of my ancestor. So about twenty minutes passed, and during this time, my sister came to us and was interested in what would cook dinner for all the guests. Of course, at this moment, Irling's stomach made a treacherous sound, which made her smile embarrassedly... I swear it's so adorable, and I definitely like this mare. Although, of course, I do not expect that we would have a more interesting relationship, except friendship and partnership in the upcoming adventure. Still, a drop of hope lived in my heart.

A few minutes later, a maid came to our room and brought us lunch and a bottle of Equestria wine. Yes, we buy wine in Equestria and we really have reasons for this. During this lunch, my companions, and discussed detailed plans for our trip, and of course there were many questions.

Therefore, I decided to express my reasonable fears: "Of course, I understand that we will go on this journey in a Lugger, and our goal is quite clear, however, you forget about the most important danger. Pirates! Oh, and just by a great coincidence, their islands is located about fifty kilometers from the island of "Peak of Fear". Do you really expect that we will have an easy way? I think you understand my concerns? I wouldn't want to be held hostage."

Irling made a thoughtful face and all the while looked out the window, carefully listening to our opinions. Then it was Srilaka who decided to make his argument: "Of course I understand you, Capper. However, I am sure that such a risk is fully justified, and even more so with us is Irling! Besides, we can always disguise ourselves as a fishing vessel. I am sure that three fishermen on a small Lugger will not be of any interest to the pirates..." Srilaka spoke in a confident voice.

That's just, I decided to interrupt him when I heard this madness. "Are you seriously saying this now? Ahaha! This is as much an abusrd idea as it is possible at all. Do you think pirates are such fools? One cat from Abyssinia, one zebra stallion, and one pegasus mare, in an unarmed Lugger, swam into the territory under the control of the "Coastal Brotherhood" to fish? However, you are a joker..." I didn't have time to finish my emotional speech, when suddenly Irling hit the table with her hoof.

"Shut up both of you! Yes, I agree with Capper about this danger, but we will not disguise ourselves as a fishing boat! This is really stupid. However, you should not forget that I will be with you at this moment, and I will definitely come up with something. Otherwise, I'm sure the pirates won't do us any harm if we don't resist. Anyway, I hope to avoid such a development in our journey." After these words, she looked at me, keeping a straight face on her face. "You, Capper, have to trust me, because I've faced various dangers, and a bunch of pirates won't be a problem for me." Irling said, and noticing our smirks on our faces, made a grimace on her face. "Did I say something funny?"

I exchanged glances with Srilak, and a mental conversation began between us, in which we, as two Males, could quite understand each other. I decided to relieve the tension a little, but I could hardly restrain myself from laughing, looking at this cute mare. So I started pouring three glasses of wine, to which Irling looked questioningly from me to Srilak.

Srilaka himself made a pleased face when he was convinced that mutual understanding was being formed between us. "You know, Irling, you're always such an amazing mare. Capper and I have come to an agreement. You must become our captain during this journey! And if it happens that we accidentally meet with pirates, you, as the Captain, will take full responsibility for our asses! Ahaha... I swear it's going to be a fun trip, anyway. Because with us, the famous Daring Do! Am I right, Capper?" Srilaka asked and took a glass of wine in his hooves. "Let's drink to our Captain, and to a successful trip!"

Irling shook her head and took a glass of wine in her hooves, looked at us with a slight indignation. "You are typical males! So, if everything happens according to a dangerous scenario and we run into pirates, will you shift all the responsibility for your ass to me? Ahem... Great! But now, if you have appointed me captain, then you must trust me completely and obey me implicitly!" Irling said in a serious voice and drank her wine.

I looked at Irling and decided to flirt with her a little. "Well, I'll be glad to obey your orders, Captain Irling. With such a confident and beautiful mare, I am not afraid to sail on this dangerous journey." I said, and winking with one eye, I also drank my glass of wine.

Irling tilted her head to the side, which caused her mane to slightly cover one eye. "Why do I feel like you're trying to flirt with me? Do you like Equestria mares so much? I can see perfectly well how you look at me. Although, I don't mind such attention, but you shouldn't do it so often. You have to remember that we're going to have a responsible and dangerous journey, and we definitely don't have time for all this romantic nonsense!" Irling said and rolled her eyes and crossed her hooves on her chest. "I'm thirty years old now and I'm still a single mare, but I don't get upset about it because I have a job I love..." Irling said in a low voice, but after that a kind smile appeared on her face and she looked at me with one eye.

In her gaze, I could see a lot, and it was very pleasant. Because right now, this famous mare has given me a secret hint that I should not lose hope, and, perhaps, to develop our friendly relations more deeply.

"I won't hide the fact that you are a really attractive mare. And you already know from the history of my ancestor that he felt affection for Fiery Heart. Let's consider it a hereditary gene. Yes, I like Equestrian mares." I replied and was a little embarrassed by my open confession, so I started looking at the empty glass.

However, Srilaka decided to change the subject and set the role of each of us for tomorrow. "Now that you have almost confessed your love to each other, which I am incredibly glad about, I propose to discuss important issues. Tomorrow morning, I'll go to the local shipyard and arrange for the purchase of this Lugger. I don't think I'll need to spend money on buying ship cannons. This is not necessary, and besides, I am sure that we will not be able to put up any resistance to the pirates. Therefore, we will use the light weight of the ship as an advantage for speed. Well, the two of you will go to the local market, buy provisions and everything necessary for our trip."

I thought a little, and also decided to express my point of view: "I still think we'll need to have weapons, in case of danger. What do you say to that, Irling?"

Irling put her chin on her hooves, and looked at me. "Personally, I don't like to use weapons in my expeditions. Although, just in case, I usually take my whip and machete with me. I also have a gift from my friend, Srilaka. This is a bamboo blowpipe that can silently shoot paralyzing darts. A very interesting and useful exhibit. By the way, I was able to look for a good machete at the local market, which will be convenient for the hoof. Do you have something, or do we have to buy it on the market? Because I can't disagree with you, Capper. We are sailing on an unarmed ship to an unknown island." Irling replied in an indifferent voice, and cracked her neck from fatigue.

"Yes, I have a pair of pistols and an officer's rapier, which my father gave me. However, I still have to buy gunpowder and bullets, so that I have something to load my weapon with." I answered.

Irling got up from the table and put a hoof to her chest, then looked at me with a smile on her face. "You are a funny and interesting cat, Capper! For some reason, I am sure that this journey is nothing but a sign of fate. More precisely, that our destinies will change in the near future. Is it good or bad? I do not know, but I will be happy to go on this adventure with both of you!" Irling made her sincere, fiery speech, but after that she began to yawn tiredly.

Well, time was passing and it was already evening, so I said goodbye to our guests and went to my room. Should I say that I couldn't sleep all night? And the reason for this is not only my upcoming trip in the company of my new friends, but also this mare... Aah... All these great magic crystals, have no meaning for me, compared to the feelings that warm the heart with love. Perhaps my fate will really change soon.

The next morning, after breakfast, Irling and I went to the market while Srilaka went to the shipyard.

Today was a day off, and as always there were a lot of locals and guests from other kingdoms, mainly merchants from Gryphonstone and Klugetown. I walked next to Irling, who had put on her raincoat, glasses and hat again. It didn't take us long to make our purchases, as we already knew what we needed. A folding three tent, some flammable liquid, matches and glowing magic crystals on straps that can be charged from the energy of the sun, and play the role of a flashlight. Of course, we made sure that we had a supply of provisions and fresh water for at least twenty days, including medicines. I also bought a good fishing rod, so that if possible I would not miss my chance and catch protein food for myself. Of course, I also had to buy some detailed maps, a telescope and a compass. Although I don't have many skills in seamanship, but I can do something. Therefore, I will be a useful sailor, under the command of Captain Daring Do! And I couldn't resist the temptation to buy myself some exclusive things. This weapon is designed for silent throwing. Shurikens. I bought one such set of twenty shurikens in a special strap that can be attached to the inside of the cloak. I think it will not be superfluous, besides, sometimes I was engaged in throwing knives and darts as a sport skill. I was able to excel at this skill. Heh... Irling bought herself a hoofed machete, which of course surprised the merchant, as he was able to sell a rare specimen. All this time, I played the role of a porter, and rolled a small cart behind me.

Of course, I had to sort out a decent amount of money from my personal reserves. Therefore, I warned my sister that I had to go on a sea voyage, at the call of fate. My sister was, to put it mildly, outraged by this turn of events.

However, she couldn't convince me otherwise, so she just waved her paw at me and hugged me. She kissed me on the cheek. "Good luck to you, Capper. I hope you can find what you're looking for. However, I'm begging you, please, Capper, be extremely careful. Although I can see how much you trust Miss Irling and Mr. Srilaka, I still have a bad feeling. Only you are already an adult cat, and of course, I will not be able to convince you to give up this adventure. I will pray Basted for you..." These were the last words I heard from my sister.

We decided to sail from our port in the evening, because at that time there was the best wind. Many sailors or just locals looked at us as idiots, and I can understand them. However, I didn't care, and neither did Irling and Srilaka. I said goodbye to everyone and hung the Phoenix Medallion around my neck, jumped into our Lugger, along with Srilaka. Irling was already in a small cramped cabin, where actually there were only a couple of hammocks, and several more hammocks for sailors were near the hold. What can I say here... it was the simplest and most unpretentious ship in its class.

While I was unfurling the sails of our ship, Srilaka was lifting the anchor. The way he did it certainly surprised me, because I hadn't seen some of his magical things before. He had some kind of bracelet on his hoov, which each time began to glow with a golden magical aura! Srilaka used a telekinesis spell, and after coping with the anchor, he looked with a sly grin at my awkward position in which I found myself.

"Hey, Capper? Do you need help, or can you handle it yourself? Otherwise, you don't look so sexy when your paws are tangled in the ropes! Ahaha!"

I was really a little nervous, and therefore I could not immediately cope with securing the ropes after I had unfurled three sails on three masts. "Fuck you! Of course, I don't mind if you help me a little, otherwise, I see how easily you cope without using your hooves." I started trying in a panic to pull my paw out of the tightening knot. "Damn it! Take this fucking rope off me!" I shouted and looked imploringly at my friend.

Srilaka shook his head in indignation. "Oh, yeah. I heard that our captain likes to severely punish such awkward sailors! Heh..." Srilaka continued to joke, after which his bracelet lit up with a magical aura again, and all these ropes gradually slipped off me, freeing me from this ridiculous captivity.

When we finished, I wearily wiped the sweat from my forehead. Our Lugger was able to pick up speed pretty quickly. Already in a matter of minutes, we watched as the port was left behind. The first stars began to appear in the sky, and the wind was strong, and filled my lungs with sea air. Although, I must admit that it will be a little cooler at night, and Srilaka and I will not be able to sleep, since we have to watch our course and the sea horizon. There should always be a couple of sailors on this deck. It was very funny and a little depressing, since Srilaka and I were the only couple of sailors on this ship! Damn it!

About half an hour later, our mare came up to the upper deck. I stood at the helm, and watched the transformed Irling fascinatingly.Now she looked completely as she should have been. Daring Do. In her cork hat and shirt. A telescope and compass hung around her neck, and her whip was strapped to her belt.

Hmm... Wonder why she put it on?

I leaned against the side, and decided to express my opinion about the appearance of this beauty. "Captain Irling! Or Daring Du? You look absolutely amazing! However, as always." I said and did not take my eyes off this mare.

Irling smiled and went to the stern of the ship, and at that moment Srilaka was standing in the bow of the ship, and decided to attract his attention. "Capper, you're saying the obvious things! When you're done flirting with Daring Do, please go to our little kitchen and make coffee. Damn it, we're going to have to stay on this deck all night. It seems that at this moment Princess Luna has come into her own... It's always a wonderful sight, and I will always love and respect the Princesses of Equestria." Said our friend, continuing to dreamily watch the moon slowly rise in the sky above the sea horizon.

Irling decided to ignore some of the stallion's words so as not to create embarrassing moments. "Capper... I... of course, I appreciate your kind attention to me, but from now on, I still ask you to call me Daring Do." She put her hooves on the crossbar of the aft side, and continued to peer at the sea horizon, and the port that we left about an hour ago. Now it seemed like a small dot. "When I'm on another expedition, then my name corresponds to my character from the book. I'm already used to this lifestyle." Daring Do said, and slowly shifted her gaze to me.

It seems that at this moment, I looked into her eyes for a long time. "Whatever you say, Daring Do. I didn't even think that such a turn would happen in my life, and I would meet you, and after that we would go on our dangerous adventure. Well, sometimes fate really plays with us in unpredictability." I said in a low voice, and also began to look at the stars.

"Yes, you're right, Capper... I need you to come down to the cabin with me, we will check our course again on the map and compass, and until morning you and Srilaka will remain in control of the ship. I'll get some sleep, and then I'll relieve one of you." Daring Do answered, and beckoned me with her hoof.

I sighed and nodded affirmatively. "Yes, Captain Daring Do." After that, I decided to attract Srilaka's attention: HEY, Srilaka! I'll be back soon and bring coffee."

"Yes, yes... don't linger." Srilaka answered and went to the aft part of the ship, to the helm.

A minute later, I was already in the captain's cabin... Yes, it was not the best facilities, but this ship is not designed for a long voyage. There were two hammocks hanging near the wooden walls, one wooden chest, a small table on which five candles were burning, and there was a jug of water.

Me and Daring Do came to the table, and after that she unfolded the map, put the compass on its corner, and looked at me with a serious face. "Capper, please tell me, do you also feel that all this journey brings some anxiety to your soul, and at the same time, some voice in your head says that it needs to be done? Because, the last few days, I haven't been sleeping well, and sometimes I have strange and even terrible dreams! I want to start this conversation with you now, with my revelation. It's as if this inner voice is calling me to follow this path. I also have a lot of concerns, and I am literally sure that our path will not be easy. What do you think about this?" Daring Do asked, and at the same time carefully looked into my eyes.

I frowned a little, and looked away. "I think you're right. Because I haven't been sleeping well for a few days either. But I believe that we should follow the call of a new destiny and listen to it. The whole Phoenix Medallion thing, it seems to me that this is just the beginning." I looked at Daring Do again, and put my paw on her shoulder in a friendly way. "I believe in what we're doing right, just like I believe in you, Daring Do. Now let's put aside all these anxious and restless thoughts. We need to check the route on the map, after which I'll go to the kitchen, and you try to rest. I think in six hours, you will replace Srilaka, and I will stay with you for another six hours. It's only fair." I answered in a soothing voice.

Daring Do smiled again and took off her hat, putting it on the table. "Thank you, for believing in me and in the success of our expedition, at the call of fate." Daring Do said a kind voice, and turned her attention to the map.

After we were convinced of the correctness of our course, I wished good night to our captain, and headed to the kitchen... Only when I was about to open this door, I heard a quiet voice behind me.

"Capper..."

I slowly turned around and looked questioningly at Daring Do. "Did you forget to tell me something?"

Daring Do slowly approached me, but did not look into my eyes. "Yes... I... I really want to believe that you are an amazing cat." After these quiet words, she raised her face and looked into my eyes. "Tell me, do you really think I'm a beautiful mare?" Daring Do asked, and she had a slightly shy expression on her face. "Actually, I've been avoiding the attention of stallions for a long time. Because they all need only one thing. After that, they left me with a sense of victory. That was the last time six years ago. Since then, I have decided that building any kind of romantic relationship is not what is needed in my destiny. But right now, my heart is telling me otherwise. It asks me to give this world a chance. It asks me to give a chance for me. Ahem..." She bowed her head again, so as not to look into my eyes and began to pick the floor with her hoof. "Actually, I'm not that sentimental, and I don't like all these things, but the older I get, the more I understand. Damn it! I don't know how to speak beautifully, I only know how to write beautifully, because at this moment I am not in direct contact with the characters of my books! There, in these books, I am a completely confident mare, but in real life, I can be shy. I didn't admit it to anyone except Srilaka. Now you know my truth too. If we are destined to go on a dangerous mission, then I would like to make my soul a little easier... and my heart is warmer from these sweet feelings." Said Daring Do in a quiet voice and slowly looked at me again.

I knelt down to be at eye level with her. "Daring Do..." I slowly raised my paws and hugged this mare by the neck, then began stroking her mane. "I believe that you are a good mare who deserves to get her chance. You shouldn't say that you write better than you say these warm, sincere words." I pressed against her cheek, which she didn't mind, and put her hoof on my neck. "If your heart is telling you this, then it's not for nothing, maybe you should listen, because this is really a chance for each of us. A chance to give love and be loved..." But before I could finish, Daring-Do's lips closed on mine in a light kiss.

I wasn't surprised, and I was pleased, so I hugged this mare even tighter. "Mmm..."

When our kiss was over, Daring Do closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Thank you, Capper. Right now, at this very moment, you're still reminding me that I'm a mare. A mare who can love and be loved. Now, I think I'll fall asleep more peacefully when I was able to tell you all this... and our kiss." She opened her eyes and smiled. "I felt during that kiss that you weren't surprised, and you were even ready for something like this. Thank you again for your understanding. Now go and mind your own business, and I'll rest. Only now, it seems my heart will be more warmed than ever. Just don't tell Srilaka about it. I don't want to put our personal on public display yet." Whispered Daring Do, and once again kissed me on the lips and stroked my neck with a hoof.

It was easy and not forced. Exactly as we wanted at this moment. I didn't expect such a pleasant moment, but this mare, who hides under the mask of self-confidence, has now opened up to me. As a reward, I received an affectionate kiss from her. Now I won't wash my lips for a few more hours to continue to feel the taste of her fleeting, bodily intimacy.

Ten minutes later, I was already standing at the helm next to Srilaka, but my happy face betrayed me. "Ah... Great coffee! Srilaka, how long have you known Irling? Dering Do... Damn it, I don't know what to call her now!"

Srilaka squatted down while his mane was blowing in the wind and looked at me, still holding the wheel in his hooves. "Do you think I'm not listening to you, what are you talking about now? Back at your hotel, I noticed the way you look at that mare. Yes, I can understand you. Now that your eyes are giving you away, or rather some happy moment while you were in the Daring Do cabin. Aahh... Yes, she is such a mare. She remains mysterious and unpredictable, but it seems that she likes you. I've known her for about seven years, but I don't think you need all these details of my acquaintance with this mare. Because right now you're thinking about her."

"Is it that noticeable?" I asked, and took a sip of hot coffee from a mug.

"Yes, but that's what doesn't bother me. I can really understand you. Please, hold the steering wheel, I'll have some coffee for now." Srilaka replied and held out his hoof to me.

I handed him his coffee mug and took the helm, but at that moment, I did not stop thinking about this mare, completely forgetting about the purpose of our journey.

"Well... I admit that I like her. I don't mind if we have a romantic relationship." I said and looked resolutely at the night sea horizon.

Our deck was illuminated by several lanterns with lighted crystals and candles. The wind was still favorable, and even strong, which made me start to shiver a little. The occasional splashes from the sea waves refreshed my face, and the caffeine kept me and Srilaka awake.

That's how we spent our night shift, talking and joking, discussing mares and all that. I think you understand me, what is a friendly conversation between two males?

Well, that's how our trip went, a little more than three days. The wind has not always been favorable to us, however, now we are entering dangerous territory. Srilaka distributed an Energy potion to each of us, and even Daring Do was with us on the upper deck the whole time. Each of us remembered that we could be spotted by pirates, and then our plans would have to be adjusted to a different course. But I don't know yet what exactly Derring Do is up to. To all our questions, she just waved off with a hoof, and asked us to trust her. The feeling of anxiety did not leave each of us.

I was standing on the bow of our Lugger, and the feeling of this potion cheered me up. Right now, I was ready to stand for hours and watch the sea horizon. Pulling out the telescope, I began to look around, trying to notice the danger in time. And although I still don't know how we should act if the pirates notice us, nevertheless I was confident in myself. There really were many reasons for this.

Firstly, pirates do not attack ships like ours, and even more so if they notice only three sea travelers on the deck. Just need to remember, that they are not fools, and they may be suspicious of a Lugger that has sailed into their territorial waters. Heh! It's really funny to me right now, and most likely this potion affects me in this way.

But we can still be taken hostage, and this will not be the best scenario. I'm not worried about myself or Srilaka. During this time, I was able to learn a little more about this stallion. And to be honest, he can still surprise me! Yes, we are talking about his collection of various enchanted things. True, they were not considered artifacts, but the magic in them really has ancient roots.

For example, he has a magic flute, the sound of which can make you fall asleep in a matter of seconds. Once, he helped me fall asleep with the help of this flute, when my nervous state, and a lot of restless thoughts, including about Daring Do, and her unexpected discovery in front of me. Her affectionate, and at the same time light kiss... Srilaka really turned out to be a very good friend and partner, and I have been convinced of this more than once. I can always talk to him, on any topic, and he will definitely be able to understand me, or make a joke in time.

He also had a small amulet with the image of a mouse... but after looking into my eyes, he refused to show me the properties of this magical amulet. He only assured me that it could be a very useful thing, and allows the owner of this amulet to turn into a mouse for an indefinite amount of time.

I furrowed my brows, but at the same time I smiled slyly. "Are you serious? Are you afraid that I won't control my instincts and eat you?" I turned away, feigning false resentment. "That sounds a little insulting on your part, Srilaka. But what about trust in each other?" I said in a grumpy voice.

Srilaka walked around me with a good-natured smile to get in front of my face. "Hah! Don't take offense at me, Capper. I'm just kidding a little, but I promise you that when the time comes, I'll show you how this Amulet works. It's just, to be honest, after I stay in the body of a mouse for a while, and then I get my true image back again, I always want to eat cheese!" Srilaka replied, and after that his stomach made a treacherous sound.

After that, we both laughed, although to be honest, we could use a little snack.

Daring Do was in the "crow's nest" all this time, and carefully watched the sea horizon with the help of a telescope that I bought her as a gift. Although from our position, we could already see the outlines of various islands located at a considerable distance from each other. Somewhere out there, there is the very island of "Peak of Fear", but we will be able to understand it when we get close enough. This means that we still have about 6-7 hours of sailing, if the wind does not change and its strength does not weaken.

Daring Do lowered the telescope, and put it in a pocket on her belt, then looked at us. "Hey Guys! I think that so far everything is calm on our route, it won't hurt to have a snack! Otherwise, I even heard these sounds here... Srilaka, you are the kitchen attendant today, so you can start your duties. And Capper and I will continue to watch the sea." Commanded Captain Daring Do, and with a slight yawn, decided to take off on wings and landed in the bow of the ship.

Srilaka made a satisfied smile, and ran a hoof along his lips, imitating some kind of gesture. "Yes, Captain! I swear, if you don't like eating my fried crackers with sauerkraut, then you can eat dried fish..." Srilaka grumbled the last words in a joking manner and went down to the hold of the ship where we stored our supplies.

Four hours later, we were already near one of the islands, on which there was a large mountain. According to rumors, this is the impregnable fortress of the "Coastal Brotherhood" of pirates. It was already getting dark and a little chilly. I, Daring Do and Srilaka were in our places. This time Srilaka was at the helm, and I was with a telescope in the bow of the ship. Daring Do was in the "Crow's Nest", and carefully watched our course. Each of us was silent, afraid to create unnecessary noise and attract attention to ourselves. It was decided that we would not even light the lanterns, so Srilaka suggested that we drink some kind of potion that would give us the ability to see in the dark. But when he looked at my glowing eyes, he started backing away from fear.

"Damn it! I still can't get used to it. Okay, then you don't need this potion." Srilaka said and went back to the wheel.

Yes, I am a cat, and I have my own innate talent. I can see well in the dark, but my eyes can give me away if they come under oncoming lighting.

That's just not everything is so simple, and we did not expect anything else. Due to the cool air, fog appeared over the sea, which forced us to observe not only silence, but also full vigilance.

Srilaka could not stand the long silence, and decided to attract our attention: "Hey, can someone explain to me why we even have to sail so close to an island where there may be pirate bases? Why don't we change course and go around this dangerous place?"

I looked at our friend with indignation, and at that moment Daring Do went down to him. "Because this is the shortest way to the island "Peak of Fear". Another reason is that if we want to hide, it's better to do it under the noses of pirates!" Daring Do replied in an indignant voice, and as soon as she was ready to take off, she looked at me.

The way Daring Do and Srilaka looked at me made me turn around and look at the sea. "Damn it..." I swore when I noticed three hundred meters from our ship the lighting from the lanterns.

A few seconds later, through this fog, the silhouette of a large black ship appeared, which sailed along the coast of this island. My friends immediately ran up to me and leaned their hooves against the edge of the side.

Daring Do was the first one who decided to express her opinion: "It looks like it's one of the pirates' patrol ships. Most likely they were able to notice us." Whispered Daring Do and exchanged questioning glances with me.

I swallowed a lump that rolled up to my throat. "In size, it looks like a Fast Galleon. We have a problem!" I pointed my paw in the direction of the pirate Galleon. "Look, they're changing course in our direction! I hope by this time, you've already figured out what we should do to avoid getting into trouble?" I asked, and my right paw reflexively squeezed the pistol grip. I cocked the trigger with my thumb, which caused the familiar click of the platoon mechanism, the flint lock, to be heard.

Daring Do noticed this, carefully put her hoof on my paw, and confidently looked into my eyes. "No, Capper. We will not resist. I have an idea, so trust me. Just please give me the Phoenix Medallion. I have to hide it safely!" Said Daring Do and stretched out her hoof.

I reacted quickly and took off this medallion from my neck and hung it around Daring Do's neck. "I hope you can take care of this." I whispered, and suddenly for everyone, I hugged Daring Do's neck and kissed her on the lips.

"MMM..." Mumbled Daring Do with her eyes wide open, but after that she gently patted me on the shoulder.

When I released her from this kiss, which Srilaka did not even pay attention to, because he understood me perfectly, Daring Do caught her breath and relaxed her gaze.

"Don't kiss me like that, as if you're saying goodbye to me! Damn it, I don't like it! I don't like that you feel doomed, but I ask you to trust me!" Said Daring Do and again looked into my eyes clouded with bliss. "Heh... Capper... What a funny cat you are." After these words, she looked at Srilaka, and nodded to him, as if there was a mental conversation between them.

Srilaka, meanwhile, looked at me with the same confident look and nodded. "Yes, trust us." After that, he and Daring Do escaped to cabin. "Stay here and don't panic!" Srilaka said in a loud voice.

I bared my teeth and clawed at the edge of the side, shifting my gaze from my friends to the pirate Galleon. My heart was speeding up the rhythm, but I was trying to fight my fears, so I breathed deeply through my nostrils.

"I hope they know what they're doing." I whispered and discharged my pistol so as not to accidentally shoot myself in the crotch. I would not like to remain disabled for such stupidity, moreover, it seems that I have one charming female.

From the pirate Galleon I heard the voices of the sailors, and it was noticeable how they were trying to light our Lugger with lanterns. The fact, that they are not trying to destroy us, suggests, that they do not see us as a big threat. Except, I'm sure they're going to come down to our ship now and start searching and interrogating. Then, probably, they will take our ship in tow, and go to a pirate port, and we will become their hostages.

Three minutes later, my ears twitched and I heard the sound of hooves. My friends ran up to me again. Daring Do was wearing her cork hat and had a whip hanging from her belt. Srilaka was wearing his traditional raincoat with a bunch of inner pockets, but this time I noticed the same mouse amulet on his neck, a saddlebag with his set of various potions and other magical things was attached to his belt.

Hm... What are they up to?

I was tormented by many questions, and while we were all trying to remain calm and sail on our course, as if hinting that we were a peaceful ship and did not pose a danger to pirates, the pirate Galleon was slowly approaching us from the port side. The distance was reduced to about a hundred meters, and the silhouettes of pirates of different types were more noticeable, as they were illuminated by their numerous lanterns. Who wasn't there. Cats, Amphibians, Moles, and even a few minotaurs. It seems to me that I could even make out the silhouettes of earth ponies!

I decided to express my concern, so I leaned slightly towards Daring Do, but did not stop taking my eyes off the pirate ship. "Uhm... I'm curious to know where you hid the locket? I'm asking in case we need his magic power, and all that..." After these quiet but confident words, I looked at my friend out of the corner of my eye.

Daring Do's pupils narrowed, and embarrassment and a slight smile appeared on face. "You can be sure... I hid the locket in a safe place..." Daring Do answered slightly stammering.

Srilaka chuckled slightly, and decided to express his humorous opinion: "That's how you talk about your pu....mmm..." He didn't have time to finish.

Daring Do made an angry grimace and quickly covered Srilaka's mouth with her hoof. "Shut up! It was the safest place!" Daring Do grumbled through her teeth.

"What are you talking about?" I was indignant, and then the pirate Galleon caught my attention again.

"Hey, there's a Lugger! Put away your sails immediately! If you decide to do stupid things, we will not spend a lot of pleasantries and sink your wooden trough!" A rough voice shouted.

Suddenly, a signal arrow was fired from a pirate Galleon, which briefly illuminated our ship with white lights. I slightly squeezed my eyes shut from this sudden light effect, but noticed that Daring Do was going to answer something. My heart skipped a beat, but there was a quick thought process in my head. I was worried about my friends.

I abruptly but carefully covered Daring Do's mouth with my paw, and decided to get ahead of her: "Good! We'll take the sails off!" I shouted back.

When Daring Do threw back my paw with her hoof and looked at me indignantly, I decided to get ahead of her again: "It's not the best idea if a mare like you takes on the role of captain right now. So, trust me. See for yourself! There's a pony on the ship, too. I do not know how their team will react to the fact that there is a female on board our ship... a mare, besides a pegasus! Do you understand what I'm talking about?" I said through my teeth, and without waiting for the reaction of my friends, I ran to remove the sails.

Daring Do and Srilaka looked at each other again, and hurried to help me. "Great! Otherwise, I've already started to forget that I'm a mare! So, thank you for reminding me of this." Said Daring Do in a sarcastic voice, and taking off to the mast began to fasten the sails.

Srilaka helped me to impose knots for fixing. "Hmm... it is very brave to take on such a responsibility at a time of our common danger, but stupid too! Because it is Daring Do that already has a plan. We have to tell these pirates that we are smugglers, and we are specially carrying rare goods for sale in the pirate settlement! So you don't have to ruin our game! Remember, you are a simple hired assistant and bodyguard on our journey. I am a merchant, and Daring Do is my personal partner! Can you play along with us?" Srilaka whispered, trying to remain calm, but it was noticeable how his hooves were shaking, and all these bottles of potions in his saddlebag made a ringing of shaking glass.

A little rush of adrenaline gave my brain an extra boost, so I didn't hesitate with the response and reaction. "Yes, I get it! I swear, you are a couple of madmen, or geniuses. That's what we're about to find out." I replied in a quick voice.

For about a couple of minutes, we stood at the stern near the helm, and watched as a pirate Galleon was moored to our Lugger. Several grappling hooks hooked our side, and in a few seconds about a dozen pirates slid onto our ship. They were mostly cats, as they are more agile for such actions. Therefore, the Abyssinians have always been famous for their combat sailors, who are able to quickly and deftly board an enemy ship. The truth is that the salary of sailors in our kingdom is not so high, which is why many of them become pirates in the future. Pirates who have a lot of experience in the maritime business.

I noticed how several pirates from the deck of the Galleon aimed their small arms at us, just like those cats who descended on our Lugger. One of these cats came out to meet me and held me at gunpoint with his pistol, and shifted his gaze to my friends.

This cat was gray in color and had a long hairstyle braided into several pigtails. He had a brown bandana on his head. His eyes reflected the light as well as mine. Only his gaze wasn't evil or kind. He was obviously noble and most likely adhered to the code of the "Coastal Brotherhood". He looked like a pirate officer.

"Look here, guys! Looks like we have a funny bunch of guests here." After these words, he did not take his curious eyes off Daring Do, decided to give the command to his subordinates. "Search the Lugger, and bring everything on deck. And you, be so kind, and show wisdom. Lay down all the weapons you have, and please don't do anything stupid. You yourself understand that it would be unwise on your part if you provoke me and my guys."

I exchanged glances with my friends, and after receiving an approving nod from Daring Do, we began to take off our weapons belts and throw them in front of the feet of these pirates. The way my friends were resolute and absolutely confident encouraged me. They really seem to know what they're doing. At this time, I also did not stand aside, and tried to analyze and calculate possible moves. I also tried to remember the faces of these pirates, their number, their weapons, and how they would behave towards me and my friends. It is possible, and I am counting on it very much, that I will not have to use force to resist these sea robbers who call themselves the "Coastal Brotherhood".

A couple of pirates walked around us from all sides and checked us for weapons. They began to feel Daring Do's shirt, and take off her hat, to which she rolled her eyes, but remained silent. Srilaka saddlebag was removed.

"Hey, please be careful with this bag. There are useful things in it that we brought to the pirate settlement for sale. Don't break the bottles!" Srilaka was indignant.

One of the pirates, who tried to throw this saddlebag into the general pile of our possessions, immediately stopped, and turned around with indignation looked at Srilaka. "Shut up zebra! If it makes me feel good, I'll throw your stuff overboard, and you..." The pirate was grumbling, but at that moment the same pirate officer came up to him and grabbed him by the paw.

"Put all this stuff down, and be careful with it. Didn't you hear that stallion say the word "Please"? Besides, you forget that there is no property of yours here to dispose of as you want." Said pirate leader in a calm voice.

The pirate, who was holding Srilaka's saddlebag made a displeased face, but obeyed the order. "As you say, Skipper."

When another pirate began to search me, pretending to be disgusted, his paws began to feel my back and sides. That's just I've already taken off my belt on which hung my rapier, two pistols and a powder horn with a bag for bullets and wads. Heh... I'm lucky they didn't make me take off my raincoat. Yes, I was able to sew a secret vault in this raincoat, hiding it behind various accessories. In these pockets are my shurikens. I think that in any case, I should have a backup option to protect myself if I find myself in danger.

When the search was over, and all our possessions were lying on the deck, in which these pirates began to unceremoniously dig, their commander looked at us. "Now, can you tell us who you are and what wind blew you into these waters? Surely you are not stupid, and you understand that these waters and islands are under the control of an independent "Coastal Brotherhood". Ah... yes... where are my manners? My name is Krisstor. I am the first mate of our Galleon "Night Boar". It's in your best interest not to lie to us." Krisstor said in a calm, noble voice, and after that he discharged his pistol and put it in his belt.

But we were still under the gun of other pirates, and Krisstor noticed this and waved his paw. "Guys, put away your weapons. After all, we are not savages, and we honor the code." Ordered Krisstor in the same calm voice.

It seems that this Krisstor really was an authoritative officer on this ship, since all the pirates unquestioningly obeyed his order. Was very noticeable, that many of these pirates, mostly Abyssinians and ponies, had military discipline. Well, I have no doubt that in the past they were sailors in their kingdoms.

Srilaka took a step forward. "My name is Srilaka. I am a traveling merchant of rare, magical things and potions that can be very useful." After that, he pointed his hoof at Daring Do. "And this is my personal partner who helps me in this business. Captain Daring Do." After that, he pointed his hoof at me. "And this is my second assistant and bodyguard, named Capper. He's mute! So don't try to get an answer from him... We intended to sail to the islands of the "Coastal Brotherhood", so that it would be possible to interest the pirates in buying some useful things. However, some of the origin of these enchanted things is not entirely legal, so we can be called smugglers." Srilaka replied in the same calm and confident voice, after which he looked expectantly at Krisstor.

All the pirates looked at each other. Someone shrugged, and someone couldn't help but grin. Well, to put it mildly, I was shocked and angry that Srilaka had come up with such a ridiculous legend about me! I'm mute?! Bitch... When we get out of here, I'll have a serious talk with him about it. Although... perhaps my silence should benefit me and relieve me of some responsibility. That's just how can you get used to such a surprise, and at the same time play your role as a mute bodyguard cat? Well, it looks like I have to adapt to my new role in a few seconds, otherwise I'll be in trouble.

Krisstor looked at him with undisguised skepticism, and crossing his paws on his chest, he first approached the Daring Do. "Well, me and my captain, we will be glad to meet such unusual guests. Miss Daring Do, you're from Equestria, as far as I understand? And how does such a beautiful mare like you manage such a nondescript wooden trough, which you call a ship?"

Is he trying to flirt with my mare? It seems that just now, I started to clench my fists, and it did not escape the attention of Krisstor. It looks like, he is also planning to hold a checking for me personally.

Daring Do also noticed my tension, and so she lightly slapped me with her tail. "Yes, I come from Equestria, but I don't have a permanent home. My home is where I am now." After these words, she decided to play her role a little better. "You noticed correctly. My ship has a nondescript appearance. This is exactly what I need to transport contraband, and have a good chance to gain speed and escape from any patrol ship."

Krisstor listened calmly and nodded. "Well, that makes sense. Now you..." He came up to me, and stood right in front of me. "You are as Abyssinian as I am. What city are you from?" Krisstor asked, continuing to test my willpower.

A very cheap trick on his part. I kept an impenetrable face, but my ears twitched nervously, and I slowly raised my paw to point to the sea horizon, approximately in the direction from where we started our journey. After that, I stretched my smile without exposing my fangs, and looked at him with a serious face again.

At this point, Daring Do decided to intervene, as she understood the meaning of this question. "Hey! Mr. Krisstor. You were told, that Capper is mute and he can't answer you! I only know that he was dropped in childhood, at birth. Therefore, he hit his head and lost the ability to speak for the rest of his life. So, be reasonable. Better tell us, what will happen to us now? We sailed to the "Coastal Brotherhood" in order to conduct mutually beneficial business, and possibly in the long term. Or are you planning to do something nasty to us?" Daring Do asked, not hiding her determination and not showing fear of these pirates.

Yes, she helped me, and I still admire this mare. I'm sure I should definitely thank her when all this shit is over... and provided we survive.

Krisstor frowned and went back to Daring Do. "I have already heard your story, and to be honest, I have a lot of reasons not to trust you all. However, I am not competent to solve such issues. Therefore, I suggest that you all temporarily accept the status of our guests while we sail to the port of the pirate settlement. All your possessions will be stored in our hold, and I give you my word that neither you nor your belongings and weapons are in danger. As long as you behave well, and do not test our trust for strength. I'll take you to Captain Sylvan's cabin. You will tell her the same thing that you told us, and let her decide what we should do with you. Yes, you heard right! Captain Silvana is a female. A very experienced officer in the service of the "Coastal Brotherhood". She is also from Abyssinia. Show her respect, and don't do anything stupid." Krisstor finished his speech, and pulling a benevolent smile, slightly bowed Daring Do. "Welcome aboard the Galleon "Night Boar". You don't have to worry for your precious Lugger. We'll take him in tow."

After Daring Do nodded in the affirmative, a rope ladder was lowered from the Galleon. However, Krisstor was not finished yet, and blocked the road in front of Daring Do. "Just a minute, Miss Daring Do. Of course, I understand everything that you are already happy to be our guests, but for the period of your stay on our ship..." He did not finish his words and called one of the pirates with his paw, who immediately handed him a rope and straps. "You are a pegasus, and we would not like to watch your unexpected flight. I don't like to watch a bunch of arrows and bullets from our arquebuses fly at Pegasus' mare. Do you understand me?"

Daring Do sighed through her nostrils and nervously wiggled her tail. "Do you want to tie my wings?" Daring Do asked, continuing to wrinkle her forehead and nose. "No matter how oblivious it may sound, but sometimes I like being tied up. You know, I get an adrenaline rush from it." Said Daring Do in a joking manner, while maintaining the full seriousness of her words.

Several pirates, including Krisstor, laughed. "A-ha-hа! I swear by the wooden crutch of our ship's cook, we haven't had such funny guests for a long time!" One of the pirates shouted.

I've been trying to breathe calmly all this time, but I've been having a hard time doing it. Now, we have to hope that nothing bad will happen to us. Otherwise, my hair stands on end from this company of idiots who may be hiding under the mask of nobility. I shouldn't relax.

Krisstor sighed and took another look at me and my friends. "Don't waste our time in vain. Otherwise, we are already delayed. Miss Daring Do, if you're ready, I'm sorry, but you have to accept our rules." Krisstor said and started tying up the wings of Daring Do.

At the same time, Daring Did look at all these actions with indifference, but in her soul I felt anxiety, and great restraint. I must admit, she is really a stable mare, and even does not pay attention to the fact that Krisstor experienced pleasure when he touched her body. I even noticed how he gave her a playful look a few times. That's just, I had a great desire to shoot him in the paw.

Srilaka had already boarded the pirate Galleon, and apparently felt uncomfortable when some ponies looked at him with contempt and caution.

Well, then nothing remarkable happened. We were just hoisted aboard a pirate Galleon, and our Lugger was secured with ropes to take in tow. Several pirates have moved our things into the hold, and I really want to hope and believe in the promise of Krisstor, that nothing will happen to our things.

It was already dark enough, but the fog over the sea still made visibility difficult. Krisstor ordered to continue the way according to the plan. After that, he and three other pirates led us along the upper deck to the captain's cabin.

All this time I kept calm, but I did not forget to keep an eye on. There were no big collibre cannons on board this old pirate Galleon. For the most part, the armament of this ship consisted of old, but time-tested, reliable ballistae. Although, several captured cannons of small caliber were still on the lower deck.

I was able to count about four dozen sailors on the upper deck. There really was an international contingent here. Cats, ponies (mostly they were Earth ponies, but I could see three unicorns, and they had some distinctive signs, and officers' hats), moles, minotaurs, amphibians, diamond dogs. Their manners were also different. Ponies and cats behaved more restrained and noble, while the rest tried to whistle and shout a malicious joke in our direction.

Krisstor stopped us and asked us to wait on deck while he warned Captain Silvana. Although he assured us that it wouldn't take long.

However, as we passed nearby two pony stallions, I heard their whispers.

"Hmm... I think I've seen this mare somewhere before. Hey, Fred Moon? Don't you think she looks familiar? It's like I've seen her somewhere. I just can't remember where exactly."

"No! Although, I can understand you perfectly. You've been to several Equestria whorehouses, just like me. Only we haven't had a normal opportunity to rest for a long time. And those whores who are in pirate settlement, do not amuse me anymore. You probably understand me? I want variety."

"Heh! Yes, yes! Only, I always notice how you run to that very batpony mare, named Night Butterfly, at the first opportunity! I have to admit that at thirty-seven, she looks quite erotic... and her moans drive any stallion crazy."

"Yeah! It looks like you also admit this fact..."

I couldn't hear anything else, because the door from the captain's cabin opened and Krisstor came out of it. "Come in. Captain Silvana is waiting for you."

Hmm... I think we might have a problem if these ponies remember who Daring Do is. That's why she needed to dress up in her hiking clothes? She's a walking legend, for many fans of her books. O0h... I hope, she understands, what she's doing. I want to trust her.

When we entered this cabin, accompanied by Krisstor and two other guys, I felt uncomfortable. It felt like I was being escorted. Captain Silvana was standing with her back to us, but when the light from the lit candles fell on her body, I began to look more closely.

"Captain?" Krisstor asked, taking a step forward.

My friends were patiently waiting for Captain Silvana to turn his attention to us and talk to us. That's just, right now I was experiencing a bunch of different feelings, and my tail began to betray my nervousness. I could hardly restrain myself from speaking. I really had my reasons for that! And the most important reason is now standing a few steps away from me, and trying to play mystery.

Silvana slowly turned around, but when she saw me, her eye twitched nervously, and a feeling of shame appeared on her face. I continued to look into her eyes, as well as she, and it seems that our silence created gave rise to a reason for Krisstor to show concern. He got up from his side and squinted his eyes, began to look attentively at Captain Silvana and at me.

Only now, I began to understand perfectly who exactly I see in front of me. At that moment, my heart was clenching with pain, and I began to tremble noticeably, and Daring Do felt it. She also snuggled sideways to me, and began to look questioningly from me to Captain Silvana.

Yes... Fate sometimes has its own plans for each of us, but so many years have passed, and my mother did not make herself felt. She couldn't even send a letter. All this time, my sister and I thought that something very bad had happened to her, and perhaps she was no longer alive. My consciousness started to blur, and I started to breathe deeply, but right now, I wanted to cry from the heartache.

"Em... Captain Silvana? Is something bothering you?" Krisstor asked, and put his paw on the handle of the pistol.

Silvana looked serious again, and looked at the other pirates. "Leave me alone with these "guests". I don't like to meet guests, creating a threatening appearance. So you and your guys can go and rest. And please arrange for a good dinner to be brought to us." Said Silvana in a calm voice, and with a graceful gait came closer, and kept her attention on Srilaka and Daring Do.

Krisstor grimaced and looked at Silvana with disbelief. "Captain? Of course, I will fulfill your request, but maybe you will let me stay? I am sure that as your assistant, I am obliged to participate and know our plans for our "guests"." Krisstor said and gestured with his paw for the other pirates to leave this cabin.

Silvana made sure that there were no prying ears and eyes in this cabin, and sighed reassuringly, looked into the eyes of her assistant again. "You will stay, but from the first you have to bring all the things of our guests, including weapons. Do you understand me?"

Her words made us all look at her curiously. Is she going to reveal the truth that I'm her son?

Krisstor also looked at the door to make sure that no one was eavesdropping on us. "Yes, Captain. It looks like you know this cat, because I noticed the way you look at him. Is that so, Captain?"

Silvana chuckled slightly and put her paw on the skipper's shoulder. "Such curiosity can be dangerous to health, Krisstor. But you're right. Today..." After these words, she looked at my thoughtful face with a sly grin. "Today, I met my son, whom I haven't seen for several years. I want this to stay just between us. I've known you for a long time, and I can trust you."

Of course, her words made everyone present gasp in surprise, and I couldn't stand my emotions anymore. "Mom?" I whispered with a hoarseness in my voice.

Srilaka decided that he had had enough of this silence. "Well, well, well... We have a nice meeting here! Of course, it's all very dramatic and all that, but as far as I can understand, it needs to be kept secret. Am I right, Captain Silvana?"

While Krisstor rubbed his chin and squinted at me, there was a thought process in his eye. "So you still know how to talk. Hm... I knew it was all a hoax. However, you are very lucky that I did not put pressure on you. Well... that explains a lot. Although, I will still have quite a few questions for you. Otherwise, the three of you cause a lot of doubt and distrust. I bet a lot of sailors are discussing what to do with you right now."

Daring Do was still snuggling up to me, which made Silvana, Krisstor and Srilak have cute grins. "Em... I'm actually surprised by this discovery, too. Maybe you can untie me? Otherwise, I'm not very comfortable with all these ropes pressing down on my wings." Daring Do said and looked imploringly at Silvana and Krisstor.

Silvana exchanged glances with Krisstor and nodded affirmatively. "Okay, Krisstor, hurry up to fulfill my request, just try not to attract too much attention to yourself. If you notice that a riot is brewing in the team, then warn me. And remember! All this must remain a secret. Damn it, I've already heard that the Minotaurs are plotting to remove me from the position of Captain. These bastards really have the right and the opportunity. Besides, Admiral Crooked Grin, has been looking for an excuse for a long time to send me to work in a brothel, and will give my ship to one of his officers." Silvana said, and began to pace nervously around the cabin, after which she looked at me and my friends and pointed with her paw at the empty chairs. "Have a seat. I really would be interested to hear from you, your story, Miss Daring Do. And no matter what you ask a lot of questions, I really know who you are. A very famous mare. I bet that some poorly educated ponies from my team will soon guess who you are and will show excessive curiosity. Do you really have to wear these clothes every time?"

Krisstor smiled slightly, and also patted my mother on the shoulder with his paw in a friendly way, after that he left the cabin. Krisstor commanding voice was heard outside the door, giving orders regarding the course, and that the team would not relax because of the sea fog at night.

Daring Do took off her cork hat and put it on the edge of the table. However, she cleared her throat and, keeping a confident expression on her face, looked slightly skeptically at her wings and at my mother.

"Oh... Yes, excuse us Miss Daring Do. I hope you just accept our game. But now, while we're having dinner and talking a lot, I'll take the ropes off you. I hope you don't hold grudges against me and my skipper?" My mom asked, putting her paw to her chest and taking an apologetic look.

I was also interested to know the answer to this question. So Srilaka and I took advantage of my mother's invitation to sit down at the table... Damn it! Yes, I have a lot of questions right now, and I feel that my head is starting to feel tense. A few days ago, my life was calm and went on as usual. Now, the time has come for a change in our destinies. Well, I believe that this is not for nothing, and I had a deep feeling that I, too, should play a very important role for our world. However, I don't understand a lot yet, and I don't risk making affirmative conclusions. I only hope that I will be able to see tomorrow's sunrise and sunset, and this will continue for many more years in my life.

Daring Do smiled enigmatically. "Yes, it's my tradition if I'm on another adventure. Then it becomes easier for me to write my next book when my hat and shirt, which have passed another way with me, will be lying on the table next to me. So no, I don't hold a grudge against you... as long as you're friendly with me and my friends, Captain Silvana."

My mom chuckled slightly and untied the ropes on the wings of Daring Do. "Heh, I that's what I thought. That's just your luck, which you describe in your books, is perceived skeptically every time... Oh, yes! I know it's always your pseudonym. Do not think that some of your readers and fans do not understand who you are... Miss Irling. Or should I still call Daring Do?" My mom asked with a sly grin on her face. "Although, you don't have to answer. Please, have a seat. Dinner will be brought to us soon, and I'm ready to hear a lot of details from all of you." After these words, Mom came up to me and gently hugged me around the neck. "Almighty! Capper! How you've grown! Eh... I've really missed you all this time. But, I ask you not to jump to conclusions about me..."

I interrupted her and turned around and also put my arms around her neck. "Mom... I... I just don't have the words. You have a lot to tell me! We were looking for you, and we hired captains, so that if they met you on their sea voyages, they could get at least something from you... at least a few words. Father, he still remembers you, he even tried..."

"YES! I know, son. I know all this perfectly well. Please don't go on. It's hurting me. You just have to listen to me. You have to trust me like your friends are doing now. And please, Capper, don't talk so loud. You must remember that you have already been introduced to my team as a "Mute" cat!"

I sighed, and hugging my mother even tighter, again with great difficulty restrained myself from emotions. "Of course, Mom..." I whispered in a trembling voice.

Yes, it was a really pleasant and unexpected meeting. We were able to talk from the heart and speak out. Our belongings and weapons were returned to us, but it didn't end there. We also talked about the purpose of our trip, which was another surprise for my mom and Krisstor. Yes, we told them everything, because it is not profitable for us to hide this secret. Captain Silvana (it's still hard for me to call her Mom since it's been ten years) she was very worried about our fate. This concerns me and my friends. Nothing good will happen to us if we are taken on this ship to a pirate port. With a huge probability, we will simply be put in cages and forced to work. We will be in the role of hostages until a ransom is sent for us. So, the very "Legend" of Srilak, that we are smugglers, will not help us. Pirates, or rather officers from the pirate community, will simply take all our things as a prize. It won't be the best fate for us.

Krisstor hurried to report to Captain Silvana: "It looks like we may have a problem, Captain Silvana. The boatswain is a minotaur... the same freak with one horn is now persuading the team to interfere with your plans at the expense of our guests! I tried to be inconspicuous and neutral, but... but it seems that tonight, we will not reach the pirate pier. Silvana... I have known you for a long time, and I am completely devoted to you, as well as part of our team, but if there is a riot, then we cannot avoid the worst scenario! Damn it! I had a feeling for a long time that our sailors would not want to obey the "Code", and seize the ship. Then, they will commit their robberies on merchant ships, and once again the reputation of the "Coastal Brotherhood" will suffer. This happens with frequent frequency. You're not a stupid cat, and you have to figure out what we should do! Yes, I understand everything perfectly! You met your son today, whom you haven't seen for many years, but..."

My mom didn't let Krisstor finish and just hugged him in a friendly way. "YES! You're completely right, Krisstor. I met my son... and now it seems my plans will change a little. How many sailors support me as the captain of this ship?" Silvana asked and carefully, but with frequent sighs from stress, shifted her gaze to me and the door from the cabin.

Krisstor looked at the door with noticeable excitement. "Not so much, Silvana. About thirty sailors out of ninety-eight. That's less than half. All the minotaurs and diamond dogs, but some Abyssinians too, they want to displace you and me! Yes, we have friends among the sailors who will be ready for any dangers... but there are not enough of us." Said Krisstor, with undisguised anxiety in his voice, and all the time he held on to the pistol with his paw.

I thought pirates had friendship. I was naive, and now I'm convinced of it.

Srilaka sighed with sadness and it was obvious how he began to get nervous. "Good. What do you suggest, Captain Silvana? Anyway, I am now sure that you are definitely not indifferent to our fate."

My mom was faced with a choice. But right now, she's already made up her mind. "Krisstor, Capper, move all the furniture to this door! We need to buy time." Silvana gave a command, which I hurried to execute, after which she called Daring Do and Srilak to the window on the balcony. "We'll sneak out and climb down the rope to one of the boats... I would really like to use your Lugger, but right now, it will be a good target, but on the boat we have a chance to escape unnoticed. Quickly grab all the food and water from the jugs to load on this boat! Miss Daring Do, you are with wings, a lot will depend on you! Rather!" Silvana gave the order and opened the door to the balcony.

At that moment, Krisstor propped up the doors to this cabin with all kinds of furniture. He tried to do it carefully, and I helped him. Take my word for it, we really had reasons for this. The brewing Mutiny on the ship was justified. So far, it's not so noticeable, but Captain Silvana and Krisstor have already made their choice. We have to escape in a dinghy, and make every effort to swim to the shore of that damned island... "Peak of Fear".

We acted cautiously, and at the same time played our part. Meanwhile, Daring Do and Srilaka were moving things and food into the only boat. That's just the cabin door has already started knocking.

Silvana cleared her throat and looked towards the door, and at that moment urged us on with a gesture of her paw, so that we would not hesitate and go down into the boat. "Ahem... I told you not to bother me! Damn it, you're all boobies! What happened this time?" Silvana shouted, and putting on a pirate hat with feathers, she gave a pistol from her belt, after which she aimed at the door.

I got my paws on the rope when I was going down to the boat, but when I heard the familiar click of a loaded pistol... "Mom, go away!"

Only a few sailors were on duty on the upper deck. They immediately looked overboard and saw all of us!

One of the moles turned around and shouted: "Treason! Shoot at them!" After that, he and the other sailors, shouting curses and other curses in the style of pirates, took out their pistols and arquebuses.

My eyes widened in horror, and my paws convulsively trembled with fear. I let go of the rope and fell into the center of the boat. After that, Krisstor and I took out our pistols and pointed them at these pirates.

Srilaka closed his eyes in horror, but hurried to cover Daring Do with his body. A shot rang out from the cabin where my mother was still.

I was breathing through my nostrils and was in shock, but at the same time swallowing a huge lump that rolled up to my throat... I fired, as did Krisstor. A retaliatory shot followed.

"Aah!" shouted four pirates, and one of them fell overboard and hit the edge of our boat.

Srilaka screamed in pain, as did me and Krisstor. After that, I began to greedily grab air with my mouth and press my paws to my neck. A fountain of blood was pouring out of me, and at that moment my mother jumped out of the window into our boat.

"Khr..." I began to choke in my blood, and I no longer heard the sounds of this world.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed that Krisstor was lying motionless. Srilaka was badly wounded, breathing with difficulty, and also lay on the body of the kicking Daring Do. He was on edge.

Everything happened so suddenly, and none of us can be immune from such sad events. But there was still a chance for me. I could hear a few screams, but I didn't see anything anymore. I fell, and resigned myself to the fact that it seems I will not go my way to the end. I won't see another sunrise... My body was numb, and my eyes were glazed.

Real time. Princess Amira's cabin.

Livardis and Starmore have been haunted by Capper's story all this time. They paced around this cabin, only occasionally casting their skeptical and sometimes alarmed glances at Capper and Amira. All this time, Capper was in a trance and looked at the edge of the table, and only sometimes at Princess Amira. It was evident from him that he was greatly shaken by these memories. It was quite understandable.

"Wait! So you are already... have you already died? Ohh... Almighty... But how did you survive in the end, and what happened to your friends?" Princess Amira asked, not hiding her concern.

Capper sighed and smiled. "I survived... not without the help and power of love..." Whispered Capper, but he could keep a single tear from wetting his cheek. After that, he looked at the Phoenix Medallion again. "I will definitely tell you the whole truth, but now... I'm a little tired now. Can we take a little break, Princess Amira?"

Amira looked at Capper with understanding. "Yes. I have to admit that we are all a little tired. You probably need to rest properly." After these words, Amira scratched her chin and squinted at her bed. "Capper?"

Capper followed Amira's gaze, and Starmore and Livardis simultaneously raised their left eyebrow, reflecting on the next act of their beloved Princess.

"Em... Yes, Princess Amira?" Capper asked, not quite understanding the hints of this majestic beautiful mare.

Amira grinned, and couldn't resist playing a little with these guys. "Capper, would you like to take a little break in royal comfort?" Amira asked and playfully wiggled her eyebrows.

Well, it looks like the answer will be obvious. That's just everyone had a lot of thoughts on their mind... only Amira remained calm and completely confident in her decisions.

Author's Note

Greetings to all of you, who have been looking forward to the next chapter of this story. A story that won't have a quick ending...

This chapter could be even longer, but I'm sure it's better to give the reader an opportunity to digest all the information on the plot. Besides, in recent days, this whole situation in the world is hitting my inspiration. Amira is still the main character for this storyline, but now new characters are appearing in this story. Capper will undoubtedly have an impact on the outcome of this plot.

So, with confidence I can say that in the chapter 39 there will be a continuation of Amira POV + Capper. This will be another big chapter, as all these characters are coming to the most important event. Since in the next chapter, I will return to Heart Path and Kirin again.

This story lives not only due to my inspiration, but also for your support, views and likes. I won't stop, so see you in chapter!