Ghyll:Darkships

Darkships ply the shores of the Dagger Seas, dealing in their illicit cargoes. Unknown sailors helm these craft from beach to cove to sea, avoiding every port and settlement, maintaining their mystery.

Darkships are thought to be Besq Boats crewed by thieves and brigands. But they are not. The darkships do not have the scent of sphoxolis about them which is characteristic of besq boats. They lack the oarlocks and the daggerboards of besq boats, and their accommodations are even more cramped and uncomfortable than those on besq boats.

The crews of the darkships are mysterious figures, with their heads constantly shrouded in complicated and ornate hoods which keep their features concealed, even in turbulent weather. Although they have no badges, the crews clearly all belong to an organization which coordinates their efforts.

The cargoes of the darkships are as mysterious as their crews. Bales, boxes and bundles are all wrapped in dark cloths to prevent them from ready identification. None but the captain may know whether an amphora contains acineen liquor or fefferberry juice.

Sightings of darkships are only reported on even-numbered days. On odd-numbered days, they are traveling or assembling in their sea fairs far from the sight of land, where goods and crews are exchanged between darkship captains.

I know this. For I have traveled upon a darkship.

--Brother Arfrus 18:20, 10 Jun 2005 (EDT)

Citations: Besq Boats, organizations, sea fairs