Tave stood on the deck as the ship began to move, slowly pulling away from the docks of Deadbay City. The wind carried the scent of salt and open waters, the rhythmic lapping of waves beneath the hull marking the true beginning of their sea voyage.
His first sea voyage, in fact.
He couldn't remember ever setting foot on a ship in his previous world. And this… this was far from the sleek, tech-heavy vessels of that world. This was something different. Here, the threats weren't just storms and swells. There were monsters beneath the surface, creatures no amount of steel plating could withstand.
Tave had found a quiet corner on the deck, settling into a calm spot near the rail, letting the wind sweep through his hair. That was when he sensed someone approaching from behind.
He turned and found Vanya walking toward him.
She picked up her pace as she neared. "Hi… I'm sorry I didn't greet you earlier, I was—"
"Come, sit," Tave cut in gently, patting the space beside him.
