Both sights were a respite after the last few days. They had survived the magical storm only to run into one provided by nature. Nature’s had been scarier and had lasted much longer. He sagged against the railing, glad he did not feel the need to throw up over it this time. The captain must have his artifact working again, because the schooner was cutting through the water faster than it should have, given the slight breeze. Minark must not want the mage to catch up with him again. Understandable. Yanko didn’t want to see him again, either, though it might be inevitable, since the other ship seemed to know where they were going. He had no idea how the rebel faction had learned of the letter or of Zirabo’s mission, but he accepted it as a truth that it did know. “Enjoying the calm waters?” came Arayevo’s voice from behind him. She walked up and rested her elbows on the railing next to him. He did his best not to gaze longingly at her, but he hadn’t forgotten that kiss, even if it had been nothing more than the brushing of her lips against his cheek.
