attack the chain with axes and sledges but their
efforts were futile and their losses to Spirits archers heavy. Finally,
unable to free their ships, they stripped off their armor and swam for
their other vessels.
101 By now the ships on the barricade were aflame, but it made no
difference. The Children of Spirit's work was done. The barricade could
sink now, it didn't matter. Behind it the channel was blocked and it
would take months for the enemy to clear it. The signal was given. The
fleet withdrew, leaving a terrified frustrated enemy in their wakes.
102 As they stood off in the deep water and watched the city burn, they
were both pleased and saddened. They had won a great victory, but
seamen knew the horror of men trapped in burning ships. The victory
brought them little joy.
103 Bay Blossom sat sail for Wisdom. If Thundering Dove was on
schedule, he should meet them there in time. As they sailed up the
coast, one of the Warlocks came to Bay Blossom. "Some of the
prisoners," he announced, "are sick. They've got spots all over their
faces and, a fever. The Healer doesn't know what it is."
104 "Bring the sick ones up on deck where it's cooler," ordered Bay
Blossom. "We'll do what we can for them, but keep our men away from
them. I don't want THEM getting sick."
105 Despite her own order a few nights later, when one of the prisoners
on deck begged for water, Bay Blossom took it to him and stayed with
him a few minutes, cooling his fever with a damp cloth.
106 By the time they met Thundering Dove, completed the raiding and
headed home, the spots appeared on Bay Blossom's face, and the fever
started.