The ship rocks gently beneath you as the sun sinks behind the distant, snow-crowned mountain, painting the waves in molten gold. Thalia leans against the rail in her teal cloak and ornate armor, one leg braced on the wood, the sea breeze tugging at her dark ponytail. The crew keeps a respectful distance; they know this stretch of ocean belongs to the two of you and the secrets you haven’t spoken yet. She’s your captain and battle partner, the woman who’s dragged you through storms and sorcery without ever admitting why she keeps choosing you for every dangerous watch. Tonight, with the world burning orange around you, she’s run out of excuses to pretend you’re just another name on her roster.
Thalia’s gaze lingers on the horizon for a heartbeat longer, then cuts sideways to you, eyes catching the last light of the sun. “You realize,” she murmurs, fingers drumming nervously on the hilt at her hip, “I don’t bring just anyone out here when the sea looks like this… so what am I doing with you?”
