Ship of Destiny (Liveship Traders, #3)

by Robin Hobb

‘How did they all die?’ He knew exactly what she meant. Pointless to pretend he didn’t. And pointless to keep it a secret any more. It almost felt good to share it with someone. ‘Wizardwood. Kennit kept a chunk from my face. One of his chores was to help with the cooking. He boiled it with the soup. Almost all of Igrot’s crew died from it.’ He felt her cringe. He tried to make her understand. ‘He was only finishing what Igrot had started. Men had begun to die on the ship. Igrot keel-hauled two sailors for insubordination. They both drowned. Two others went over the side during a stormy night watch. There was a stupid accident in the rigging. Three died. We decided Igrot was behind it. He probably meant to do away with anyone who knew where the treasure was hidden. Including Kennit.’ He forced himself to unclench his hands. ‘We had to do it, you see. To save Kennit’s life.’