🎣 An Old Boat without its Fisherman

• Normal
• Abstract

Tied up to the docks at the furthest shore of Lake Hrogar sits a wooden fishing boat. Its sails tied and its deck caked in refuse from the dock birds. There is no one around and that looks to have been so for a long time. The boat is used, but well maintained, but it has no owner. There is a cabin nearby, but it is also empty. Below deck you find a small living quarters, good enough for a night or two on the water. It is tidy, well-kept, but covered in dust. Under a small stone you find a worn piece of parchment. The words written there send chills down your spine. To whosoever finds this note, know this: the lake is cursed. The legends are true. The villagers call me mad, but they will soon see. Set out upon the waters under a new moon, as I have, and strange magics take hold. Your boat will sail itself, your ears will hear the sweet plucking of a harp, and storms will erupt that cause no waves nor winds but toss you about nonetheless. When you return your trial has not yet ended. Every night will be filled with nightmares of storms and silent, empty waters. After three days, you'd be lucky to have any of your wits left to you. After five, you vanish. Poor Dirk. If you're reading this, then this has happened to me as well. Do not sail the new moon. The spirits do not wish you on their waters.