Finally, the danger has passed. We managed to steer directly into rival territory while escaping the sirens, and a bloody battle ensued. We had few casualties, but many injuries. My arm is now broken, but it will heal. Unfortunately, I'm going to have to wait ashore during the weeks that it will take to heal. Captain's policy, unfortunately, is that we shouldn't be put in further risk if we have a chance of healing. Knowing I could be away from the Captain, from my brothers and sisters at arms, from my home on the sea... It feels as if it's too much to bear. But I'll survive. Just last year, the ship's cook spent time in a port town recovering from some broken ribs she got when some manner of beast threw her against the mast.
I almost wish I had lost the arm, so we could patch me up and I could stay aboard, but it's my good arm. I would have to re-learn how to swing a sword with my off-hand, which is the only thing keeping me from begging the captain to keep me aboard.
We still haven't had our talk. The sun set an hour ago, and I am finishing my post-battle duties. I mainly repair the ship and our equipment, but with my arm the way it is, my pupil has been acting under my instruction. I send him off to bed, knowing I can finish what's left on my own. Admittedly, I'm still hopeful. The captain looks at me differently now. It's only been a few hours, but I can tell that things are different between us. I feel as if my heart could explode just from not knowing where we stand. If my feelings for her are going to be a problem.
Even if she does feel the same way, even if she does love me, what if that puts the rest of the crew at risk? If she had to choose me or someone else to save, a moment's hesitation could prove fatal. Is she willing to take the risk that such a situation could arise? By the gods of the sea, I pray so.
I snap out of my train of thought to see her approaching me. One of her sleeves is gone. Her coat was cut during the fight, so she simply finished the cut to remove the sleeve. Her arm is bandaged, to stop the bleeding, but it will be fine in a day or two. I realize I have frozen in place, like a nymph caught dancing. Instinctively, I snap to attention, but I try to raise my main arm in greeting. The injured one. I cry out in pain, which passes a moment later.
I look up at the captain and grin, feeling like a fool. She smiles, and lets out a small chuckle. Her deep, sultry voice sends shivers up my spine. How have I hidden my feelings for so long? Merely a moment's weakness and it's as if I've unraveled.
What she tells me in the coming minutes shocks me more than any monster ever could.
