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“We are here,” he murmured.
“We are? Is it that easy? How…?”
Her words trailed off. The gray parted like clouds, allowing him to catch a glimpse of her face when she finally took in what she was seeing: a mini city floating above, powered by whatever force ruled the Otherworld. There were lines of stores and buildings, then narrow streets zigzagging here and there. There were crowds of people milling about, some in full pirate attire and others in more casual wear as they went about their day—or night.
“It’s like they are stuck together,” she blurted out, ogling openly. “No, glued together. Everything’s squeezed together.”
“Careful, Nic. I’m beginning to think your old captain Jasper never took you here.”
She grinned. Her gaze narrowed when she spied a couple of short figures in fancy chains and feathered hats, then a group of women dressed in all-black pirate attires.
“No families. No kids.”
“There are, but most of them are already pirates by the time they grow up. It’s the way of life here. Some of the most dangerous pirates are women.”
“It’s so secluded. It’s a completely different world.”
“I could say the same about Ostrov Krov.”
“Hmm.”
Their conversation trailed off when it was time to dock, with Isaiah taking over as he steered the ship into their reserved spot. The crew secured everything, including their traps, then began unloading the boxes meant for this place. Hours later, everything was done, and he wanted to treat them to the finest food, but there was something that needed his attention first.
“Come on. It’s time.”
Maddox had already packed a bag, and Nicola retained her male persona. He led them to a wooden path, then a cobble one where the buildings were fancier. Along the way, he ditched his hat and bracelets, then buttoned his coat up properly. He greeted the man at the front desk, who eyed Maddox and Nicola suspiciously.
“Hey, Ulric. Any free rooms?”
“You know I always have free rooms, boy. Who are they? They better not be from one of those crazy captains.”
“No, nothing of that kind. They are from a trade ship looking to get some rest. Their ship got harassed last week, so they need to fix it before they travel again.”
“Let me guess. It was a witch, wasn’t it? Those bitches do too much.”
“A pirate ship, actually.”
Ulric made a face but easily made the coin exchange. Halfway through the second floor, Maddox handed Nicola his bag.
“I will keep guard. Thanks for everything, Isaiah,” he said, then jumped over a window. Isaiah raised a brow.
“That was dramatic.”
She bit back a smile. “That’s his keyword for exploring. And to check up on Ruby. He will be out there for hours to scope and memorize. This is new to him, too.”
“He’s leaving you alone?” At her sharp look, he held up his hands. “Fine. You can handle yourself and all that jazz.”
“Speaking of all that jazz….”
“Yes.” He nodded. “Not everyone knows I’m the notorious pirate here. It’s pointless to announce it. Besides, this is the more civil part of the Sky…anyway, here we are.”
He leaned against the doorway as she stepped into the room, dropped the bag, and started poking her way through the small space. She ducked, climbed, and crawled before she straightened with satisfaction.
“No bugs and no camera.”
“Ulric’s decent. Grumpy, but decent. My crew stays here when we have enough money.” He grinned. “We get the big hall with the many rooms for loyal customers. Chuck will probably reserve it tonight.”
“Aren’t they going to look for you?”
