going up to the front of the pirate revival tent

'You, that's RIGHT! Yes, YOU, come on up and be SAVED!'

There is no doubt now who the preacher is talking about. The crowd parts to let you through, laughing at the pirate preacher's antics. He hauls you up on to the stage with him using his artificial hand. Its made of metal, but its five fingers don't feel clumsy at all. Once you are on stage you feel acutely conspicuous and ridiculous.

"That's right I say SAVED! From a life of boredom and honesty! Meet the newest member of my crew, gents and ladies all! Don't worry kid, we'll make you work like the devil! Because He's such a fine example for ua all!! Hallelujah, by Thunder! Sing with me now!"

And he launches into another verse and everyone joins in.

When the meeting breaks up, and the other pirates wander off in high spirits, he takes off his hat and earrings and introduces himself.

"I'm Manx" he says, in a voice quite  unlike the one he used while preaching "and if there's one thing I hate, its the slave trade. Follow me!"

He sets off toward another part of the encampment, and you follow, but suddenly your path is blocked by Axel, leader of the gang that kidnapped you

"That's my property you've got there, Manx," he declares "if you plan on keeping it, I expect payment in full!"

"Absolutely!" says Manx, decking the slaver across the jaw. His metal fist makes an harsh clanking sound, and Axel crumples to the dirt. Manx steps over him.

"I'd gladly pay him the same for every kid he's ever napped, but the price would be more than I have on me." He says. "Come on, time to move before the rest of his gang notices."

Manx plunges into the crowd, elbowing pirates aside as necessary, and you follow. When you reemerge on the other side of the throng a few minutes later, Manx hastily introduces you to several other piratical looking types, who you gather are his crew. This bunch seem to be much less scalawagy than the Rode Pie Rats, but that is not saying much.

"We can't take you home.We have important business to see to down south. "Manx says "and I don't recommend going it alone out here in Bogey country, especially after dark. Ride with us long enough to earn your keep, and after that if you still want to go home we shake hands as friends. But either way, we need to leave before nightfall. Im pretty sure I've stirred up trouble for us here by stealing you."


Do you agree to travel with Manx? click here.

Or do you decide not too?

click here.