2025 Jun 3: The Eiridian Clam

 The Eiridian Clam is a rather average merchant vessel sailing the seas. Previously most of its business was coming from ferrying tin from Caeledor all the way around the mainland to the various empires of the Inner Sea. However, with the political instability in Caeledor and the threat of the Invaders plundering sea trade, the crew was forced to run less ambitious trading routes, where their lack of familiarity, and the frequent raids caused the enterprise to slowly run out of money. The ship is currently anchored in the harbor of Ak-Setresh, a city on the northern coast of the empire of the Reptilians. 

The captain of the Clam is a morose orc named Telemakhos, who is all too aware that he cannot afford to buy cargo anymore, and is desperately looking for either a patron, or someone rich that might hire his ship and crew. If he doesn't find one soon, he will be forced to choose between piracy or selling his ship, neither of which sits well with him. Other important people on the ship include Atenkheisha, the Reptilian quartermaster (and general smart person, in charge of keeping track of funds, cargo and crew, both paid and enslaved) who was running a modest embezzlement scheme before funds dried up, Ir-Katesh, sarcastic the Bronze Elf navigator and priest of the Lord of Waves, and Odraios, the tough but fair orcish drummer, in charge of both the oars and sails of the ship.

The ship is also home to an old and smelly tabby cat named Rug who spends most of his days sleeping, but is happy to try to beg for food from anyone who comes near him.

 Image by Peter Connolly