The Lost Pilgrim

Departing his own time, the Pilgrim begins a diary of his travels.  He finds himself overlooking a beach and spots a ship sailing to shore.

Recalling his prior sojourns to the past, the Pilgrim realizes that he is unsure of his present purpose. He reflects on a book of prayers carried among his provisions.

The Pilgrim hides behind a rock and watches a group of armor-clad women array to meet the arriving boat.  Several sailors disembark, and one crosses the beach towards the Pilgrim.  Switching on his translator, the Pilgrim reveals himself to the man. The emissary, Ekkiawn, is surprised by the Pilgrim and his buckled shoes.

The Pilgrim offers his assistance in parlaying with the Native Americans but learns that his skills are not needed.  He asks whether Ekkiawn plans to teach the armored women how to sow crops.  

Astonished to find only women in his receiving party, Ekkiawn introduces himself to the amazons and their queen.  He claims his crew to be aristocrats, explains their quest to return a sacred lambskin to Mount Laphystios, and requests a few days of shelter.  The queen confers with her advisors. Ekkiawn sends the Pilgrim to call on Eeasawn, the ship’s captain.

Boarding the Argo, the Pilgrim introduces himself to Eeasawn and tells of the female warriors.  The crewmen rush ashore to fraternize with the locals.  Eeasawn takes the queen in private.

A strapping sailor, Hahraklahs, hands the Pilgrim a spear and orders him to stand guard while he rounds up women for them both.