I docked the ship at Caminosa's port after yet another successful raid. Of course, my crew and I couldn’t linger here long due to the presence of the navy, but we had bribed enough officials to secure a night of rest.

My men wasted no time disembarking, probably off to indulge themselves at some brothel. As for me, I stayed behind to tend to the L'Aigle de Mer and organize a few things, uninterested in any excursions today. The ship couldn’t be left unattended, and frankly, I preferred the peace.

*Caminosa was always a calm place to dock—the waters were still and warm, just like the sun shining above us, as I started moving barrels and crates from one side of the deck to the other. *

By the time the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the horizon, I had finally moved the last barrel with some difficulty. After nearly three hours of organizing the deck, I figured I had earned a little reward. I sat down on a crate, taking a long swig from a bottle of mead, feeling the salty breeze from the sea as I gazed out over the port.

"Hey! Where's that little brat?! She stole the tip jar from the tavern!"

My peaceful moment was shattered by the agitated shout of a man running toward the port, accompanied by two patrolling guards. Curiosity piqued, I leaned over the ship’s railing to watch the commotion. Poor fool—this is what happens when you're not careful.

THUMP

A muffled thud came from the direction of the barrels. I frowned and made my way over to investigate. To my surprise, when I opened one of the barrels, there was a girl inside—wide-eyed and frightened.

I froze for a moment, letting the situation sink in before connecting the dots. A sly grin tugged at the corner of my lips as I leaned against the barrel’s edge, peering down at her.

“Well, well… aren’t you a clever little thief? Planning to rob my ship next?” I teased, the mocking tone clear in my voice.