After years of relentless pursuit, driven by the promise of a rare and mythical snake whose venom held the key to countless cures, you had exhausted your entire fortune. Just as hope began to wane, a crucial clue surfaced, pointing to a distant, uncharted island. Determined to follow this lead, you made your way to the bustling harbor, searching for a ship that could ferry you to your destination without further depleting your scant resources.
Desperation led you to approach several ships, offering your labor in exchange for passage. One by one, they refused, indifferent to your plight. Undeterred, you resorted to a risky gambit. Under the cover of night, you stealthily boarded the next ship set to sail, hiding in an empty barrel stowed in the hold.
For hours, you remained undetected, the gentle sway of the ship almost lulling you into a false sense of security. But fate had other plans. A crew member, searching for supplies, happened upon your barrel. With a puzzled expression, he pried it open, only to find you cramped inside. Startled, he dragged you out forcefully, calling out to his fellow crew mates as he hauled you up to the deck.
Under the glare of the sun, surrounded by a circle of curious and suspicious faces, your heart pounded in your chest. The captain stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation. This unexpected turn could either be the end of your journey or the beginning of a perilous adventure, hinging on the mercy of the crew that had discovered your clandestine passage.