As the two ships drew close, Jebber leaned over the side of the boat, calling down cheerfully to the Fishman below,
"Hey! Brother Fishman! Want to come aboard and join us?"
The Fishman looked up, surprised and flattered. He had traveled extensively and was accustomed to humans shrinking back in fear or reacting with contempt. But this was the first time anyone had greeted him with such warmth.
Appreciating this rare kindness, he reached up, grasping the boat's rail, and with a swift push, vaulted onto the deck, landing in front of Jebber.
Jebber gave him a thumbs-up, grinning.
"Brother Fishman's got some serious moves!"
The Fishman smiled generously, extending his large hand. "Glad to meet you. The name's Tiger."
Jebber eagerly shook his hand, laughing.
"Jebber's the name! Haha! I never thought I'd meet the legendary Fishman today, I'm one lucky guy!"
Tiger couldn't resist asking, "Aren't you afraid of me?"
"Afraid? Why would I be? I've heard Fishmen are a kind people. I've always wanted to be friends with one!"
Tiger felt genuinely moved. "That's right! We Fishmen are kind-hearted, and I, too, would like a human friend."
Jebber gripped Tiger's hand firmly, looking at him with sincere excitement.
"It's fate, Tiger! So, where are you headed? Traveling solo?"
Tiger nodded. "I'm just drifting, no destination in mind."
A flicker of disappointment crossed Jebit's face but was quickly replaced by a smile.
"I see. Well, how about you stay on my ship for a while?"
Tiger found Jebber's straightforward nature appealing and agreed instantly.
"Alright, but I won't freeload. I'll fish and help out."
Jebber laughed heartily. "Nonsense! With a ship this size, food isn't an issue. I'll make you my friend, no strings attached! Come on, let's go inside and have a drink!"
Without further ado, Jebber led Tiger to the cabin. But as soon as they entered, Tiger's nose caught a faint whiff of something unsettling—blood. His brows knitted together.
"Jebber, by the way, what kind of ship is this?"
"Oh, it's just a merchant vessel. We transport goods." Jebber's smile didn't waver. "Mostly odds and ends, nothing special."
His relaxed manner eased Tiger's concerns somewhat, and he nodded in acceptance.
Soon, a hearty spread was laid out. Jebber filled a large glass of wine for Tiger, as well as his own. The sight of the abundant food made Tiger's mouth water. Life at sea had been rough, and he rarely got to enjoy a proper meal.
"Let's drink!" Jebber raised his glass with a welcoming smile.
Tiger gladly toasted with him, gulping down his drink and eyeing the food. Jebber chuckled.
"I can see you're hungry too, so dig in!"
Tiger didn't hold back. Immersed in the feast, he failed to notice that Jebber and the others were avoiding certain dishes.
Once he'd finished, Tiger patted his stomach, thoroughly content. Jebber leaned back, watching him with a grin.
"So, Tiger, satisfied with the meal?"
Tiger scratched his head bashfully.
"More than satisfied, Jebber. Thanks for the treat!"
"I'm glad to hear it. You've had your fill, so how about a quick stretch? I'll show you to your quarters."
Tiger nodded. "Lead the way!"
Jebber motioned to his crewmate Laki, who returned a knowing wink, then gestured for Tiger to follow him.
As Tiger stood, a wave of dizziness hit him. He assumed he'd just had a bit too much to drink, so he brushed it off and followed Jebit.
Jebber led him to a spacious room. Just as Tiger thought this might be his quarters, Jebber stepped to the center of the room, pressed a hidden switch, and a trapdoor creaked open on the floor.
"Sorry about this, Tiger. Space is a bit tight, so you'll have to stay downstairs for now. But don't worry—the room down there is plenty roomy, though it's a bit dark."
Tiger waved dismissively. "No problem. Just grateful for a place to stay."
With a friendly smile, Jebber descended the ladder, and Tiger followed suit. But as he stepped down, a powerful, iron-tang scent of blood filled his nostrils. He looked around, spotting iron cages stained with dried blood.
Instantly alert, Tiger turned to Jebit, his voice tense. "Jebber, where is this place?"
Jebber's friendly demeanor vanished, replaced by a cold smirk as he turned to face Tiger.
"Why, it's your new room, stinking Fishman!"
Before Tiger could react, Jebber lunged forward, slamming a fist into Tiger's stomach. Although Tiger tried to block, the blow was too strong, sending him reeling back to the stairs.
Struggling to his feet, Tiger gasped, "How... how is this possible? My strength..."
Jebber threw back his head, laughing. "Ah, Tiger! How did you enjoy the special meal I prepared just for you?"
Tiger grit his teeth. "You... you...!"
Jebber shrugged, utterly unbothered. "Why, thank you! It's been a pleasure!"
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+115 chapters on p@treon/tambeerg