The Fates of the Prisoners

Astra did not see any point in balking. Besides, she thought, if Charlie were very powerful, he would not be a hired hand on board a pirate vessel. So she would not resist, and bide her time.

The prisoners were treated differently. Astra's legs were place in irons. She was to be placed on Stony Brook, below decks, and watched carefully. However, her arms and neck were not bound, and she had use of a lantern, was given good food and water, and treated with a certain amount of respect. She was also promised exercise above decks twice a day, although she would still have to wear the magic iron.

Checkers, Sartoma, and Jan not having surrendered, had to be punished. They had their arms, legs and necks placed in chains, and were gagged and placed below decks on the Elaine. Fred and Solbert, as they did not resist, were, by comparison, well- treated. Solbert was given a place in the crowded berths below, but allowed a certain amount of freedom. He was to help out in cleaning the ship's mess after meals. Fred was treated most favourably. He was a noble, after all, and had impressed the Lords of the Sea with his coolness and acceptance of his turn in fortune. The Captain wished to talk with him. He was to bunk in the company of the ship's officers, and to be allowed the freedom of the ship, under the condition that he would not try to escape, and not interfere with any of the ship's operations.

It was Solbert who picked up some loose talk about the two different destinations of the ships, although the ultimate fate of the prisoners was kept from them. This news made the need to get the coins to Astra that much more urgent. But how would this be possible?

1. That night, Fred was eating with the officers of the ship, at the Captain's Table.

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