Captain Bane's Arc

Chapter 3 of 4

Captain Bane walked the harbor district, searching for allies who understood his cause. A ghost needed more than maps and signal fires—he needed crews who respected the old ways. He found them gathering near a wooden stage where carved masks hung from iron hooks. Pirates, sailors, and dock workers stood in clusters, their voices low and cautious. These were people who knew about stolen ships and betrayal. Bane moved among them, listening. One man spoke of a captain who'd lost his vessel to mutiny. Another mentioned a fleet that took what didn't belong to them. The conversations confirmed what Bane already knew—his enemy had stolen from others too. When his ship returned, he wouldn't fight alone. Bane kept walking until he reached the harbor's center square. A tall statue rose from a stone platform. The figure held a sword high, and ornate carvings covered the base. He moved closer and read the weathered plaque. The statue honored Captain Blackstone, who'd reclaimed his stolen ship through a daring raid. Other names were carved below—captains who'd won back what was taken from them. Bane's transparent hand reached toward the stone. These captains had done what he planned to do. They'd fought and won. The monument proved it was possible. His pride swelled. When he reclaimed his ship, maybe they'd carve his name here too. He needed a place to meet sailors willing to join his cause. Bane found it near the docks—a building where voices and the smell of food drifted through open windows. Inside, a large wooden table sat surrounded by chairs. Beer steins and scattered coins covered its surface. Groups of sailors hunched over the table, talking in low voices. This was where deals were made. Bane stood in the doorway and listened. A man mentioned needing a crew for a dangerous job. Another offered information about ship movements for the right price. These were the people Bane needed. When the time came to face the backstabbing cur, he'd return to this table. He'd find his crew here. For now, he had his watching post, his signal fire, his proof that others had succeeded, and a place to gather allies. Captain Bane had everything he needed to wait for his ship's return.