Embarkation and Intrigue

The nobles gathered at the bustling port.

Marquis Sam wrinkled his nose as if he'd caught a whiff of something foul and crossed his arms tightly over his chest. "Ships," he spat, the word dripping with disdain. "Filthy, rat-infested coffins on water. I don't care if it's just for a day—I'd rather ride a donkey through a swamp than step foot on one of those floating hellholes."

Duchess Milana rolled her eyes so hard it was a miracle they didn't get stuck in the back of her skull. "Oh, for heaven's sake, Sam, stop whining like a spoiled brat. Ships are the backbone of trade and war. Without them, we'd still be throwing rocks at each other from opposite sides of a river. Grow a spine."