| Chapter Two - A Proposition |
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Following a robust push from Sadeian, the tavern door swung reluctantly open. We stepped into the interior and an ample but comely serving wench ushered us over to a recently cleared table. Sadeian's companion patted her on the rump and dropped a few silver coins in her hand whilst whispering to her softly. Oh yes, clearly not a chance meeting and judging by her giggles the wench was well acquainted with my mysterious gentleman companion. I sat and gratefully accepted the cloudy ale which was offered. We all wrinkled our noses at the smell of the brew but its taste was surprisingly full & refreshing. "Captain" Sadeian, as he re-introduced himself, was an animated, genial man and good company. He was also in possession of a sharp, enquiring mind which even in times of light hearted conversation never bent from its focus - he was clearly a man with pressing concerns. This fact confirmed his stated title as genuine, only an officer would display such discipline. He was a well built man who while not old, showed signs of a hard life. Tiny scars criss-crossed his features and he looked as if he had not slept properly in some time. The devilled kidneys arrived and they were indeed excellent, our old family cook would have been impressed.
The subject matter of conversation soon diverted my mind from such trivialities however. We discussed the theory of flight. The Captain was impressed with the design of my crowd pleasing kite, remarking on its manouvrability and acrobatic qualities. Time passed unnoticed as our enthusiasm coupled with the free-flowing ale loosened our tongues. After what seemed like a brief time we left and I accompanied Captain Sadien to the quarters of his associate. Here, discussions took a darker twist as Captain Sadien outlined his recent history and of the threat that faced mankind. He explained the technologies behind some of his breathtaking inventions, which were so fantastical they seemed from another world. I was later to discover that in some cases this was the literal truth! As the small hours of the morning approached I confessed that this was all very interesting but that I wasnt entirely sure why the Captain was confiding in me so. He took several puffs on his pipe, blew out an impressive smoke ring and simply replied "Because I have a job for you my boy, fully paid of course - youre going to help men to fly....." |
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