Snippet #1632845

The dozen or so animals that had been below deck were freed from their cages, given at least a chance of survival. Most could swim, and that was a far better option than drowning, and they began to make their way to the upper level. Aleia glanced furtively around as the villagers made their way frantically to the deck, quite fearful of the water that was beginning to crowd their sleeping quarters.

As she made her way through the masses, Aleia spotted a familiar face. "Taren!" Hurrying over to the young man, she grasped his hand to prevent them from being separated. "We need to get out of here. I don't think the ship is going to last much longer," Urging her new companion along, Aleia slowly squeezed through the crowds that were gathering on the deck, climbing the stairs as well. Immediately the harsh pounding of rain was dousing her skin and clothes, the smell of smoke thick even in the storm.

A large swell caused the vessel to tip to one side, water quickly gathering in the hull as the last of the villagers evacuated the lower deck. Stumbling towards the rail, Aleia's dark eyes warily eyed the crashing waves. How were they going to survive this? It was hours until they would reach the mainland. Glancing over at Taren nervously, she spoke slowly. "You can swim, right?"