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Even now, I can only imagine the look on Sythar’s face. As I mull over my thoughts, a pair of strong arms wrap themselves around me, causing me to forget about my worries for a moment.
“Good morning, my dear,” he greets with a kiss. “Catching some of the ocean air I see.”
The docks loom closer as I remain silent, my eyes glued to them.
“Hey, is there something wrong?” he asks.
“I’m just nervous about all of this,” I tell him. “I’m worried how everyone is going to react.”
“What?” he asks in surprise. “The great Salina Caligari is nervous?”
“Shut up.” I giggle, elbowing him.
“That would explain the steam coming out of your ears,” he chuckles, turning me to face him. “You’ve got this. Everything is going to work out just as it should, and I’ll be right by your side.”
“You’re right,” I reply. “I still need time to prepare before I see them though. In my letter back to Nakam, I didn’t mention when I’d be coming back or anything.”
Denve’s eyes move behind my shoulder, narrowing at something in the distance.
“What?” I ask.
“Something tells me that woman knows you.”
I spin around, only now realizing that the ship is being docked. Standing on the harbor below is a familiar face.
“Callista?” I call out.
“Salina!” she yells, jumping around like an excited batlaz.
Without hesitating, I jump off the side of the ship, twirling in the air as I land perfectly on my feet. I embrace her in a warm hug, the sight of her delighting me. I forget about all the troubles plaguing my mind, only grateful to see a smile on her face.
“I missed you so much!” she exclaims.
“Me too!”
“So,” she asks, pulling back. “How did your first contract go?”
“Well…”
I turn around, gesturing to Denve as he dismounts the ship with our belongings. At the sight of him, Callisa tilts her head in confusion.
“There’s someone I’d like to introduce you to.”
Denve approaches, extending a hand to my closest friend.
“Denve Thuvrol, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Denve,” says Callista with surprise. “I’m Callista.”
“Ah, Salina has told me all about you. Perhaps there’s a move or two you could teach me for self defense.”
Callista’s smirk spreads as she chortles. “Well, why not, eh?”
She turns to me. “I’m sure you’re eager to get back to Nakam. The carriage behind me will take us back there if you’re ready to go.”
I glance at Denve but see his line of sight is focused in another direction. Following his line of sight, I spot a minotaur giving him a dirty look.
“Darling,” I call to him, pulling his sleeve. “Callista says the carriage will take us to Nakam. Should I just go now?”
