Chương 235: Love Interest End Story: Fabian - Part I

Every year, there were only a handful of knights who were able to complete the grueling four-year training regimen to become a first-tier imperial knight. If he had followed his original trajectory, he would've been amongst that handful and take his place at the side of an imperial family member with vows to protect them with his life.

"How did you get through your blue crescent when you get seasick!?" Gideon was trembling with rage as one of the new seamen aboard Tigershark looked down, afraid to meet his glare, after vomiting on deck.

"I've never been out this far into the open ocean for so long, Your Highness."

"Just call me Officer Soleil!" Gideon clenched his hands at his sides, as if restraining himself from tearing at his hair. Fabian closed his eyes and took a deep breath. The two of them had just passed the first level officers test, with Gideon gaining rank in navigation and logistics while he passed strategy and communication. Both were able to continue to serve aboard Tigershark, the newly adjusted crystal-powered naval cruiser captained by Captain Deidre O'Tuagh.

Tigershark was similar to Stingray, Captain Andrew O'Tuagh's ship, in that they were used for patrols around the empire's extended territorial waters and were rigged for defense. Fabian had been doing rounds below deck with first mate Bryan Kilpatrick when they emerged to see the unexpected sight of a sailor vomiting on the wooden deck.

"Take this sight in, von Dorn," Mr. Kilpatrick said with a tired voice.

"This isn't the first time a sailor will vomit." Fabian's eyes slowly crinkled up.

"Understood, sir. What do we do now?" The corners of Mr. Kilpatrick's lips curled up with a bit of disgust.

"You get a bucket and clean it up." And that was how Fabian found himself tossing a bucket of water over the liquid vomit and having another sailor sweep it off the deck. Not exactly the glamorous, honorable life he imagined when he passed his officer's exam, but really, life never took him where he thought it would.

"We're going down to the Celaria Coast. Of our patrols, it is the longest, so let us hope that Seaman Gorman gets his bearings soon," Mr. Kilpatrick said as he looked at the young man. Gideon took a deep breath.

"At this time, the Celaria Coast will start their typhoon season. There is a good chance it will be more turbulent than normal." At that, the new sailors who gathered around paled. For Gideon and Fabian, they'd already been through two typhoon seasons and it would be their second time going down the Celaria Coast. The southernmost territory of Soleil was a day off the mainland, on a large island called Selgret in Soleil. The local name for the island was Cheylrey.

It had been under the control of the empire for five hundred or so years and was a stopover for Soleil trade and naval ships, as well as for merchant vessels of friendly countries. The Countess had been to the island four times already, as it was a stop before Varsha and Hong. Fabian heard at the Cosora Delta that there were a few crystal masters visiting from territories, including Selgret, working on Anahata Island. He didn't know what they were working on the island. It was shrouded in secrets.

The island itself was won in a war and there was already a heavily mixed population on the island. For the most part, mainland Soleil did not get involved in local government, although they still had to abide by empire laws and trade regulations agreed upon. The island was well protected with several seaside forts and a naval base, as well as had basic infrastructure to support the local populace.

Despite being so far from the mainland, locals did travel to Soleil to study and train for various things before returning, of which was paid for by local and territorial taxes. Of course, it wasn't without its dangers. While secure by itself, other islands in the region were not as lucky and there were often plagues of pirates targeting merchant vessels coming to and from Selgret.

The last time they were there, Stingray had pursued and sank three pirate vessels that had been caught targeting merchant vessels from the Jeru Archipelago. Several of their ships and naval ships from the nearby mainland countries had hunted for pirate bases, but none were found. Gideon handed Fabian a small hand towel after Fabian returned the bucket and rinsed his hands.

"Tell me that we weren't this bad when we did our first tour."

"Neither of us vomited. I'd say we were a bit better," Fabian replied with a slight smirk.

"At the moment, we're cruising and the waters are relatively calm. Mr. Kilpatrick is right that it'll get worse." Gideon had a dull look on his face.

"I can hardly wait."

"Soleil. Von Dorn," a voice called from a doorway leading below deck.

"The Captain wants you at a meeting." The two exchanged looks, but nodded and followed. Just as they arrived at one of the cabins, several other officers were walking out with serious looks on their faces and discussing in quiet voices. Fabian couldn't help but feel a bit nervous seeing the officers leave as they, and a few other officers, entered. Captain O'Tuagh was standing to the far end of the table in a casual uniform with her hair tied up.

There was a map on the table in front of her and she was looking down at it. As this group of half dozen people entered, she raised her eyes and gave them a nod. Mr. Kilpatrick closed the door once he stepped inside.

"Captain." He saluted and Fabian and the others followed the motion. Captain O'Tuagh gave them a nod.

"We received a message from Surlemer that pirates almost caught two trade ships recently. These particular instances are alarming, as they were closer to Selgret than normal. Other islands in the region have also reported that there is an increase in pirate activity; at the very least, more sightings closer to their shores," Captain O'Tuagh told them.

"Our intelligence suspects that the last great storm may have made it difficult for the pirates to live by destroying local crops or existing resources, such as homes, water sources, or the like." Gideon frowned.

"Captain, can't tainted water result in widespread waterborne illness?" Captain O'Tuagh gave him a solemn nod.

"Desperation breeds daring. Two of the five aid ships sent from the Elcya Port on mainland Celaria have gone missing and the kingdoms have requested assistance."

"Missing?" Lt. Parson's brows furrowed together.

"Where were they last spotted? Did they leave together?"

"They left in sets of two from Elcya two days apart, but one of the ships in the second set had to turn back due to damaged supplies. Each set was designated for one of the three islands heavily damaged by the last great storm." Captain O'Tuagh leaned forward and used a long stick to point out the locations of the islands on the map. The Celaria Coast was long with a mixed coastline. Sometimes rocky, sometimes sandy, sometimes jungle that poured right into the sea.

There were several large, important economic ports belonging to kingdoms and principalities on the Celarian Coast. Due to proximity, they were both rivals and partners. The three islands that were badly hit by the last great storm, which was the first typhoon of the season, were further northwest than Selgret. The typhoon barely touched Selgret. Fabian had read up on the region. When Soleil won islands in the region in a war, they only wanted Selgret.

The books Fabian read were biased in Soleil's favor and hinted that the then emperor of Soleil wanted Selgret because of its specific location, where typhoons tended to miss it or have minimal effects due to air and water currents. In its five hundred years as part of the empire, there had been three typhoons that were particularly devastating, but each time, the infrastructure was improved and damage was minimized with continued precautions.

Unfortunately, other islands within several days sailing were not as lucky. It was common for aid ships to be sent from the coastal kingdoms and sometimes Selgret.

"There are islands in that area," Lt. Parson said.

"Not large ones, but better than sandy banks."

"Both Elcya and West Manne sent ships to check the small islands, but there are no signs of shipwreck, let alone survivors," Captain O'Tuagh replied in a low voice. Midshipman Mallory frowned.

"Are you saying the two ships disappeared into thin air?"

"I'm not saying it," Captain O'Tuagh said as she lifted her chin.

"But they haven't been found." A few murmurs went through the cabin and Fabian glanced at Gideon.

"What do you think?"

"Captain," Gideon said, looking up.

"Which of the ships of the pairings disappeared."

"Elcya's Mercy Three, which was in the first pair, and Mercy Seven, in the last pair. Mercy Three was sent to Lysheer Island and Mercy Seven to Prince Toral Island," Captain replied." Mercy Two was with Mercy Three and said that Mercy Three was within sight that evening, but eventually, they lost sight of the ship at night. Mercy Six said the same about Mercy Seven."

"They disappeared at night?" Lt. Parson narrowed her eyes." Mercy Two and Mercy Six both said that they assumed the ship fell behind the horizon. Mercy Six even slowed down to wait for Mercy Seven to catch up and remain in sight, but they saw neither lights of the ship nor distress signals and beacons." The room seemed to grow tense. Fabian took a deep breath and crinkled his eyes.

"Something must've happened," Gideon said.

"Ships don't just disappear without a trace."

"Or without warning," Lt. Parson agreed with a small nod. She raised her eyes and looked at Captain O'Tuagh.

"What is our order, Captain?"

"We will go through the area where Mercy Seven went missing first, then continue south to where Mercy Three disappeared. If we're unable to find anything, we will continue to Selgret as planned. The situation on the western islands is still dire and we will escort a private merchant vessel that has been prepared to bring aid on behalf of Soleil. Lt. Commander Donovan will coordinate teams to check the island. Soleil and von Dorn, you will be assigned to the teams."

The two saluted her to show their understanding and acceptance.

"Yes, Captain."

"In addition, Lt. Parson, when we escort the aid ship, you will be assigned to stay on board Lionfish Tau."

"Yes, Captain-""Lionfish?" Gideon perked his head up.

"The merchant vessel belongs to Guever... I mean... Countess Guevera... Captain?" The corner of Captain O'Tuagh's lip curled up and she gave a small nod.

"It is a merchant vessel of Lions Gate, currently the largest in the fleet with the most advanced crystal technology developed at Anahata Island. Even with its size and cargo, it can outrun us." Lt. Parson took a sharp breath as her eyes widened.

"Is it... is it possible to see the technology?"

"You will have to ask Captain Sedir." Lt. Commander Donovan's face flushed as his jaw almost dropped.

"Captain, you mean Admiral Lionel Sedir who retired last year?" Captain O'Tuagh's lips tightened into a line and her eyes crinkled up. It seemed she didn't want to believe it either.

"I was told he grew bored of retirement."

"Ship fanatics...." Fabian heard Gideon whisper under his breath. Fabian didn't nod, but he did agree. The number of naval officers eyeing the delta and all things associated with it, including Lions Gate and the Coast Guard, was surprising. He frowned a bit. He had some time until retirement. At that point, would he have a chance to settle down at the delta? He wasn't very close with the Countess, but he didn't think she hated him.

Fabian made a mental note to bring it up with one of the captains in the future to see if they could write him a recommendation for a spot when he was ready to leave the navy. He looked towards Gideon and drew in his lips. He was close to Gideon, but the gods knew that if Gideon tried to push for him to get a position in the delta, the chances of him being rejected, if not banned, increased exponentially. Never forget. She is petty. Fabian took a deep breath.

"All right, everyone. That is all. Prepare for your orders. We'll be arriving at the first site in three days." ♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡ He didn't think he'd be so unnerved by simply climbing over the protruding roots of tangled trees over a sandbar, with warm tropical water lapping at his feet, but he did. There was nothing disturbing about the fifth small island they combed. The weather was warm and humid, even in the morning. It was sunny and bright.

There were birds in the trees and a calm rhythm of the waves. There wasn't a single piece of freshly broken wood or torn sail fabric. No glass or other debris from a possible shipwreck. Most importantly, there were no signs that the island had been touched by people, dead or alive, recently.

"Team one to team two, we've finished our section. Negative. We are returning to the transport vessel." Fabian took a deep breath and looked around at the three other sailors who were weaving through the edge of a forest on the east side of the island. He raised his hand and pressed two fingers against the crystal earpiece.

"Team two to team one, we are working our way back to the transport vessel. So far, negative."

"Confirmed. Do you need assistance?"

"Negative. Estimated time of completion is fifteen minutes." Fabian removed his fingers from the earpiece.

"Westerhouse! Montague! Reed! Let's return!"

"Yes, sir!" The trio of younger sailors sounded off and they began the return walk back to where they had arrived. They rounded a corner and could see the other team waiting on the shore. Gideon, who led the first team, was frowning. As he saw Fabian approaching, he lifted his head and met his eyes, having a silent conversation that it was odd that they found nothing. This island was the closest to the disappearance point of Mercy Three.

After confirming that everyone was present, they got on board the small transport vessel and went back to the ship waiting in deeper waters. They immediately went to report their findings to Lt. Commander Donovan. Upon receiving the report, the man frowned and looked over a copy of the map that had faint grid lines drawn over it. He drew a line over several squares over the unnamed island they'd searched through. Several similar small, unnamed, and unpopulated islands had already been crossed off. As Lt.

Commander drew the line across, Fabian couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. Several teams had gone through nearly every island they had passed, and even zigzagged through the area, and not a single one had any trace of wreckage or survivors.

"It's as if they disappeared in the night." Lt. Commander Donovan's narrowed eyes bore into the map, as if willing it to show him a hint.

"But something must've happened. They must've gone somewhere."

"Is there anything else we can do, Lt. Commander?" Gideon asked. The older man didn't take his eyes off the man.

"No, you are dismissed." The two saluted and walked out. As soon as the door closed behind them, they let their shoulders fall.

"There's one other place," Gideon said in a low voice. His lips were tightened into a line and his eyes were narrowed. Fabian took a deep breath.

"The bottom of the ocean?" Gideon nodded.

"The bottom of the ocean. However, if there was a problem on board that would suddenly cause a ship to sink, they could've sent out an emergency beacon."

"I don't know if Eclyan ships had those."

"They do. All modern maritime vessels have universal safety codes and emergency light beacons are required. At least, the vessels of Soleil and our allies and trading partners. The coastal kingdoms of Celaria included. In addition, they must be routinely checked before each departure to ensure that they will be working in case of an emergency," Gideon said. Fabian nodded.

He didn't doubt Gideon; maritime procedures and law had been drilled into him while Gideon was back in Horizon by the instructors the Crown Prince sent him to. He furrowed his brows.

"The ship that had to return to port said there was an issue with the supplies. Is it possible they discovered something was wrong with the equipment and returned?"

"Emergency aid needed to be rushed out. I read it's very common to check equipment after the ship leaves port and as they begin sailing to begin with. What more when they're in a hurry?" Gideon replied.

"To be honest, I'm relieved that the ship turned back. There are many reports of ships who check equipment and, even if there are problems, do not return to port."

"There are too many vessels nor do we have the power to check them individually," Fabian told him with a frown as they walked up narrow stairs to get to the deck.

"It is up to the individual entities to be responsible for their own safety protocols."

"Isn't it strange, though?" Gideon glanced over at him.

"There should've been multiple emergency light beacons on those ships. What is the likelihood of all of them not working?" The two looked at each other with darkening expressions.

"Do you suspect foul play?" Fabian felt his skin crawl as the thought came to him. Gideon grit his teeth and didn't reply at once.

"It's just too suspicious to be an accident." His words lingered in Fabian's head the rest of the way to Selgret. Fabian looked forward for two days on land to eat some regular meals and stretch his legs, but didn't expect that the urgency of emergency supplies to neighboring islands hit hard by the last great storm was greater than expected. Before they docked, Lt. Parson informed them that they were to get their basics ready, as they would board Lionfish Tau as soon as they disembarked from Tigershark.

Though it wasn't expected, Fabian wasn't surprised.

"Has the urgency become that dire?" Gideon asked. Lt. Parson let out a low breath and glanced out at sea.

"Another storm is coming and they want to get to the hardest hit island as soon as possible. Otherwise, they'll have to wait until the bulk of the storm passes." Gideon frowned.

"If they wait until after the storm, it'll be even worse for the islanders."

"Exactly. Admiral Sedir has requested immediate assistance. Tigershark will refresh her supplies and as soon as we are ready, we will leave port to escort Lionfish Tau," Lt. Parson replied.

"If it's a smooth trip, we'll be back in two weeks and can resume the tour." By Fabian estimate based on his time at the delta, at top speed, Lionfish Tau could arrive in three days to the nearest island, but Tigershark was a bit slower. They would likely go a midspeed, tacking on another two or so days. Still, that was faster than traditional sailing ships. The two saluted and went to prepare their things to board the merchant vessel.

When they emerged from below deck with their bags slung over their shoulder, Tigershark had docked, and not too far away, they saw a massive ship. Three large stacks protruded to let out steam while the flag of Soleil was displayed. Painted on the sides of the ship was the name "Lionfish Tau" and two seals: one the logo of Lions Gate and the other the seal of the Cosora Delta. Lt. Parson and Captain O'Tuagh led them to the next pier over to board the merchant vessel. The closer they got, the larger it seemed.

"It's as large as Sur Bronce, which is the largest ship in Soleil," Captain O'Tuagh replied.

"Although, Eili believes it is larger and there is rumor that Lions Gate and the Cosora Delta are working with trade partners for an even more advanced ship that can easily unload large cargo without the need for special equipment at ports without them."

"Are they looking for more crew members?" Lt. Parson asked with a breathy sigh. Captain O'Tuagh raised her brow.

"Already rushing to find a new job?"

"No, no... but it's nice to have something to do when you retire." Fabian frowned a bit. He really would have to ask his captains to write recommendations for a position based in the delta. He was still young and had quite a bit to go. By the time he retired or decided to leave the navy, the market could be saturated.

"Don't worry," he heard Gideon whisper.

"I'll talk to my brother for you." That will make it worse.... Fabian restrained his cringe.

"You don't have to, Gideon. I need to attain the position with my own strength." Gideon nodded and praised him for his determination. They climbed the gangway and reached the deck. Waiting for them was a tall, thick old man with white hair and a white beard. He looked stern and full of authority as he stood there.

"Admiral Sedir!" Captain O'Tuagh saluted, and Fabian and the others with him also saluted the old man.

"You can call me Captain while we're on board my ship. I feel it's more interesting," the old man said with an almost smug look.

"Who have you brought to me, Diedre?" The lack of formality made it clear that the now Captain Sedir was familiar with Diedre.

"Captain is a protégé of Admiral, I mean Captain Sedir," Gideon whispered to him. Fabian nodded. It was good to have Gideon around. When it didn't revolve around the Crown Prince or the Countess, he was quite astute and had a library of political and social relationships in his head. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Fabian was certain that if he showed this focused, yet flexible thinking to the Crown Prince, Gideon would be in a more favorable position.

Fabian didn't understand what made Gideon lose his rationality when it came to his brother. The last example of Gideon coming to the conclusion that Countess Guevera was having an affair made Fabian worry that Gideon wouldn't come back to the navy unharmed. Thankfully, the Crown Prince and his now fiancée were merciful and did not maim Gideon on the spot, as Fabian was afraid Countess Guevera would do. Captain O'Tuagh introduced the dozen sailors, which included him and Gideon.

Captain Sedir was surprised to see Gideon, but nodded. His first order of business was to send Fabian and Gideon along with the ship's stewards to double check the equipment onboard. Lt. Parson wanted to come to take a look at the ship, but was forced to remain with the higher ups to discuss the procedure to the island. After Captain O'Tuagh left, the sailors were informed of the plan and shown a map of the area. Gideon recalculated the navigation and route to do a secondary check.

It was estimated that the storm would arrive in a little over a week's time. Once they arrived at the island, they would unload as quickly as possible and then try to outrun the bulk of the incoming storm. If they couldn't outrun it, the ship could handle the storm. What was important was that the supplies were delivered before the storm to at least allow the islands time to prepare. Fabian could feel the urgency in his bones and didn't feel the tightness fade until Lionfish Tau headed out.

He and Gideon walked around the expanse of the ship. The surrounding waters were calm, but Fabian could feel his stomach tightening, as if it were too calm and something was going to happen. Gideon had a pensive expression and seemed lost in thought.

"What is it?" Fabian asked.

"I can't stop thinking about the ships that disappeared. They were aid ships, and at the moment, we are, too," Gideon told them.

"What if they didn't sink or wreck? What if they were taken over by pirates?" Fabian drew his head back.

"The ships that disappeared weren't far from their sister aid ship."

"They disappeared at night and visibility at night is limited. No emergency beacons were lit. What if they couldn't be lit? What if they were damaged or they didn't have time to be lit?" Gideon asked.

"The pirates have a base somewhere here. They must've been affected by the typhoon, as well. It's just surprising that combined naval powers haven't been able to find them. There are only so many islands pirates can hide in."

"I agree and I have a theory!" an accented voice said behind them. The duo turned around and saw a young woman, tall and a bit plump with brown hair and skin reddened by the sun. Fabian and Gideon gave her a small nod.

"Engineer Royce." The fourth ranked of the four crystal-focused engineers on the ship, she had followed her master to Anahata Island and was on the ship to study the crystal technology in use.

"Officers Soleil and von Dorn," she replied as she stepped forward. She was carrying a bag and reached into it to take out two leather strips with a round crystal panel the size of a large coin on them.

"Please wear these."

"What are they?" Fabian asked. Gideon narrowed his eyes.

"Tracking crystals," he said as he reached out and accepted one. He brought one closer and frowned.

"I've never seen this type before."

"It was recently developed in Anahata Island. The panel is layered with crystals for tracking, communication registered to the Cosora Delta, and an emergency beacon," Engineer Royce told them.

"There is a poison detection crystal," Gideon said.

"Master Guevera developed this wristband with personnel loss prevention in mind," Engineer Royce explained.

"If we are stranded on an island or lost in a forest, the wristband crystal can also detect if water is potable." Fabian took the leather wrist band and strapped it on.

"Does everyone have one?"

"Yes. Yours have been registered under your names for tracking purposes. Should there be an accident, we will have a better chance of finding you," the young woman told them.

"Master Guevera and her imperial knights also wear this when she is abroad." Master Guevera in her mouth was the Countess. Gideon touched the wrist band and looked at the young woman.

"When did Countess Guevera become 'Master'?" Engineer Royce looked a bit proud.

"Master Guevera attained the formal title of Crystal Master three years ago, sir. All crystal users on the island and abroad refer to her as such." Gideon huffed.

"She has too many titles...." Fabian cracked a small smile. He gave Engineer Royse a nod.

"Thank you, Engineer. We'll keep them on," he said.

"What were you saying earlier about a theory?" The young woman perked up.

"Are you interested?"

"We're open to all theories," Gideon replied.

"One never knows if a theory could be verified." Fabian agreed.

"We shouldn't ignore any possibilities, especially considering how strange the disappearances are." Engineer Royce nodded her head energetically.

"Finally! People of logic!" She motioned for them to follow her below deck, to the galley to sit down.

"I also think that it's pirates and that they don't have a singular base, but are spread out through the islands." Gideon frowned and Fabian cocked his head to the side.

"What do you mean spread out through the islands?"

"That the pirates are integrated into the local populations. Whether the rest of the islands know or not isn't verified and it's likely that they don't, but the crew members of the pirate vessels must be spread out since the entire region has been searched and there are no signs of pirate hideouts." Gideon leaned back against his chair and rubbed his chin.

"That does make sense. All the looted property has to go somewhere if it isn't hoarded. Isn't the easiest way to spread it out and put it in circulation at once."

"No evidence left," Fabian nodded.

"Then, those who would be suspicious are those on the islands who have an excess of supplies and wealth that is difficult to explain," Gideon agreed.

"Most of the islands out here are agricultural and fishing. In the winter months, they support tourism from the mainland," Engineer Royce told them. Fabian looked over at her and raised a brow.

"You're well informed.

"My mother's side is from one of the islands and moved to Selgret when my mother was young," she said.

"When I was growing up in Selgret, I visited often, so I'm familiar." That explained Engineer Royce's regional accent.

"Have you told anyone else your theory?" Gideon asked with narrowed eyes.

"I told our Chief Engineer and the Captain overheard." The young woman sank into her seat, disappointed.

"But the Captain said it is not our place to intervene as we are not equipped to engage with pirates and have a primary mission to deliver goods safely."

"Captain Sedir is correct," Fabian replied.

"This is a commercial ship. Civilians should not get involved." Engineer Royce sighed and nodded.

"I know, but I'm sure I'm right about this."

"I'm sure you're right about it, too." The trio turned around and saw Captain Sedir walking towards them with Lt. Parson.

"I've informed Lt. Parson and we've discussed, but finding pirates hidden within an existing populace is like trying to find a fish in the sea."

"It is also likely that they may be protected in order to ensure future benefits," Lt. Parson said.

"There is a good chance they won't talk to non-locals."

"Then what do we do?" Gideon frowned.

"We can't do anything?"

"Even if they can't be stopped, they can be severely slowed down," the Captain said with a slight smirk. He looked at the young lady.

"It seems that there are some items that were sent with you to test?" Engineer Royce furrowed her brows for a moment and then slowly smirked. She looked up and nodded.

"What are you talking about?" Gideon asked. The young lady beamed.

"We have developed a tracking device for ships using aquamarine and cerulean air crystal. It's very expensive to make at the moment, but we've been testing it."

"At Anahata Island?" Fabian asked. She nodded.

"It's a small crystal that needs to be placed on a part of the ship that touches the water. The aquamarine uses the air crystal to react to sister crystals to be found," Engineer Royce explained as she moved her hands around.

"Under controlled tests, with the crystal in an ideal location like the keel, we've been able to track a vessel all the way to Pargath from Anahata Island."

"That's several days away," Gideon said, his brows shooting up.

"That's quite impressive."

"Anahata Island is living up to its reputation," Fabian added.

"In terms of establishments, it's still quite young." Engineer Royce looked proud.

"But, how do we get the crystal on the keel of a pirate ship?" Gideon said aloud. Fabian pursed his lips.

"First, we need to come in contact with a pirate ship," Lt. Parson told them.

"Then...." She looked at Fabian with an almost predatory smile.

"I heard you're quite a swimmer." ♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡ The crystal was the size of a thumbnail and wrapped in metal with portions exposed. There were several small needles still out of the back end that needed to be pressed and then turned into wood to adhere. Engineer Royce said that it needed to be pressed and then turned to secure it. Fabian had stared at it. How was he supposed to put it on the bottom of the boat?

In the chance that they did cross paths with a pirate ship, if it were the middle of the day, it was likely that he'd be seen. If it were at night, how would he even find the ship? When he voiced his concerns, he was hit with another surprise.

"I can do it." Engineer Royce had raised her hand.

"I grew up on the Selgret naval base. I can swim and dive."

"Rejected. It's too much of a risk for you," Captain Sedir told her in a firm voice. The young woman looked a bit disappointed, but nodded.

"Then, Officer von Dorn should." The two days, when he had a moment, Fabian's arms were elbow deep in a bucket of water, trying to get used to the little crystal and metal device.

"It would've been better if there were little grooves on the side to add grip," he said with a frown. Standing beside him, Engineer Royce nodded and wrote that down in a notebook.

"Do you feel that small, narrow grooves or wider grooves would work?"

"Both. Right now, the sides are smooth. When one's hands are wet, it is difficult to grip and turn."

"Is there any way to do that while keeping the size as is?" Gideon asked. The smaller it was, the easier it was to hide.

"We may need to make the metal case larger. Anything too small can slip through one's fingers. We also considered including a small hole where a string can be tied in case it is accidentally dropped," the woman told them.

"The initial use of this was to keep track of Lions Gate vessels, not to function as a tracking device for enemy ships, so we thought there would be plenty of time to properly install it."

"It has promising usage," Gideon replied.

"Different versions for different usages can be made." Fabian lifted his hands from the bucket and looked at the wrinkles on his fingertips.

"I was able to install it onto the piece of wood, but this is a controlled environment. It may be more difficult when I'm in the water and going up and down." Gideon lifted his hand and rubbed his forehead.

"I wish there was a more secure way to adhere it."

"We can only work with what we have," Fabian told them as he wiped his arms.

"Your High-Officer Soleil, you're wanted on the bridge to discuss the route," one of the sailors assigned to the ship with them. Gideon stood up and nodded. He glanced at Fabian.

"I'll return after." Fabian gave him a nod and watched his friend go. Engineer Royce put her notes down and reached into the bucket. She unscrewed the tracker and lifted it up.

"Please time me, Officer von Dorn." Fabian looked down at the time piece on the table and then told her to go. She shoved her arms into the bucket with a concentrated look on her face. She twisted her arms and then suddenly pulled them out. Fabian called out the time: "eight seconds." From her frown, it wasn't fast enough for Engineer Royce, though it was less than half the time it took Fabian.

"It'll be longer when we're treading."

"When I'm treading. We appreciate your enthusiasm, but you are a civilian. You cannot take part if the time comes." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

"It's times like this where I wish I had gone to the Naval Academy."

"Why didn't you?" Fabian asked as he handed her the spare towel to wipe her arms. She looked at him as if the answer were obvious.

"How many crystal users do you think come out of Selgret?" Fabian furrowed his brows and tilted his head to the side, unsure what she meant. Engineer Royce let out a heavy breath and faced him.

"Selgret has a small population and we're the furthest territory from mainland Soleil. As a result, technology from mainland Soleil reaches us last. We don't have as many opportunities to study advanced courses like you would on the mainland. Leaving to study is an incredible chance and not every child on the island gets it.

"If we're lucky, and show enough promise, a distinguished master or instructor will take us under their guidance. Such positions don't come along often, so when they do, we jump at them. While I grew up on the naval base and my father and many relatives are involved with the navy, none of them showed enough talent to advance in something like crystals or charms. No one except me. So, when my master asked if I wanted to learn more, I took the opportunity.

"As such, I've had the chance to leave Selgret and go all the way to Anahata Island to study. Aside from my master, I'm the only person from Selgret who's been allowed there." Fabian was quiet. He knew how secretive and closed that island was, but also knew that being invited to study there was an incredible honor and showed one's potential.

"That's impressive. I've heard a lot about Anahata Island and have met some of the masters there. You're in good company." Engineer Royce lifted her chin and nodded.

"Sometimes, I am curious as to what would've happened if I followed my father and joined the navy, but as soon as I touch a crystal, I am reminded that this is where my true calling is." She looked at him and cocked her head.

"I am sure that when you were younger, you also didn't expect to be where you are. I'm sure I wasn't the only one," she said with a slight knowing grin. Fabian took a deep breath and let out an agreeing nod.

"I was Prince Gideon's personal knight." Her brows shot up and she took a step back, her eyes looking him up and down.

"You were a knight?"

"Personal knights, while proficient in sword and general self-defense, are not always to the same level as the knights you're thinking of," Fabian told her.

"I'm sure you've seen imperial knights at the delta. That was my goal as a child - to become an imperial personal knight." She nodded.

"What's the difference?"

"Personal knights accompany imperial family members from the time they are children to when they are adults. Around the time they reach adulthood, they can choose to enter La Garda to be put on the path of becoming a first-tier imperial knight to protect their charge into adulthood. I was selected for my ability when I was a child to be Prince Gideon's personal knight." Engineer Royce knit her brows together and looked towards the direction of the bridge, where Gideon had headed earlier.

"Then... you are still with him now. Doesn't that make you his knight still?" In his heart, Fabian felt that he would always do his best to protect Gideon and stay at Gideon's side. Not so much as an official personal knight, but as his friend. Hearing her ask about the position, Fabian still felt uncomfortable. What he felt and what his actual position was differed. And it had been because he made the decision. An empty feeling welled in his stomach.

The moment he had realized that he didn't move to protect Gideon, as he had been trained to do his entire life, was the moment he realized he was not fit to be a personal knight. He'd been angry and frustrated. He'd been disgusted with himself. Gideon was also his friend. He'd spent his life watching Duke Axton with the Crown Prince. The two were more than just knights and liege. They were best friends, as close as brothers.

And although they were far more formal for the most part, the Emperor and Chamberlain Thorpsen had a similar relationship. Fabian didn't know what held him back from sharing such a connection with Gideon, especially when it seemed Gideon felt that way. When Fabian had decided to step back from his position, Gideon had looked as if he'd been abandoned. And the most frustrating part of the entire thing was that Fabian didn't know why he'd done so.

What had possessed him to distance himself from the closest, and only, friend he had? His red eyes drifted towards the bridge as well. He swallowed and lowered his eyes.

"Not anymore. I just want to remain with him and do my best to protect him. Personal knight or not."

"So, you followed him into the navy?"

"I found that I like it, as well," Fabian replied.

"A few months ago, we both decided to pursue officer posts."

"Then, what's your goal? I want to be a crystal master, for example."

"Ideally, rise in rank and do support work," Fabian told her.

"When I leave, I hope to apply for a position at the Cosora Delta." Engineer Royce drew her head back.

"Why there?" He gave her a curious look.

"You don't know how popular it is with navy personnel?"

"All the sailors and naval personnel I know want to move back to their home region if they aren't already assigned there," she said with a shrug.

"Then, what do you plan to do as a crystal master? Will you continue to do experiments on the field?"

"This isn't an experiment," Engineer Royce stressed.

"We are observing products with real time use in the environments they are built for in order to compile data and improve the products."

"Do you work with the Naval Research Department?"

"The what?" Fabian crinkled his eyes.

"You should ask Lt. Parson about it." She shrugged and nodded.

"Well, I think it's good that you're enjoying yourself as a sailor. Maybe being an imperial knight wasn't for you and you didn't realize it until you had another option in front of you." She gathered the bucket and went to dump the water inside, leaving Fabian furrowing his brows and looking down at the deck. Engineer Royce had a point. He didn't know what else he could do until another option was in front of him. It wasn't until he went with Gideon to the Naval Academy that he felt he found another purpose.

Everything he knew before that was knighthood. Knighthood he had struggled with. Everyone always said that he was talented and an adaptive person, but whenever he was compared to Duke Axton, there was nothing to compare. Duke Axton far surpassed him in ability. Fabian's foundation was solid, but at one point, he didn't progress. When had he become complacent? Conner had a much weaker foundation than him and within a few years, he'd far surpassed Fabian. Even the Countess had beaten him.

What kind of personal knight was beaten so badly by a teenage noblewoman whose main physical focus was dance?

"Fabian, we're on duty tonight. The ship is going a bit north...." Gideon trailed off as he reached Fabian and noticed the annoyed expression on his face.

"Are you all right?"

"Was I ever a good knight?" He didn't realize he spoke up until Gideon jerked his head back.

"What?" Fabian shook his head.

"Nothing. Nevermind-""Are you talking about when you were my personal knight?" When he didn't answer, Gideon seemed to understand. He exhaled slowly.

"Fabian, you were an excellent knight. You would've only gotten better with more practice." Fabian flinched at that. With more practice? Gideon had noticed he hadn't progressed. He lowered his head and shook it.

"No wonder I didn't become an imperial knight." Gideon sighed and put his hand on Fabian's shoulder.

"Fabian, you did what you could and excelled with a sword. Even now, your ability with a single-handed sword is the best in our batch. You are fully capable of learning and improving yourself. You just need motivation." Fabian lifted his head and looked at Gideon.

"Motivation?" What was his motivation to become a sailor?

"Yes, motivation," Gideon said with a bright smile. He patted Fabian's shoulder to show his support.

"That's the kind of man you are, Fabian. When you find a purpose, you will whole-heartedly throw yourself at it. You'll push yourself to do so." Gideon stepped away and prepared to walk down the corridor. Fabian's voice stopped him.

"How are you so sure?" Gideon looked over his shoulder, appearing calm despite the question making Fabian's heart slam against his tightening chest.

"Remember when Guevera sent us out to flee the village? You half dragged me out and only let me go when you had no other choice so you could protect me," Gideon said. He cracked a small smile.

"Your motivation was to protect me, Fabian. Let me ask you: why are you working so hard to become not only a sailor, but to master the single-handed sword?" Fabian opened his mouth, but no words came out. Gideon chuckled and pointed at himself. Fabian frowned.

"What...?"

"Whether you believe it or not, I see you as a knight. Perhaps you don't see it because it hasn't manifested in a way we're used to seeing, but let me assure you, you haven't lost that title to me. That is something you need to remind yourself." ♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡ Gideon yawned and Fabian checked his time piece. They had another hour until they were off duty, but they weren't used to having such a late assignment.

How they made it that late was likely due to the sea air and the terror of the dark, endless void past the ship's railings.

"Just another hour," Fabian said.

"Can you last?"

"I'm not sleepy; I'm bored," Gideon replied with a dull look. The corner of Fabian's lip curled up.

"It's better to be bored right now." Gideon snickered and nodded.

"That's true." They turned the corner and saw Lt. Parson walking out in casual clothing, her eyes narrowed.

"Lt. Parson." She glanced at them and looked back out at the water.

"Have you two seen anything out there?" Fabian and Gideon exchanged looks.

"What do you mean, Lieutenant?" Gideon asked.

"I was reading and when I turned off my light crystal and went to pull the curtain over the window, I could've sworn I saw a dark shape not far from the ship." Fabian frowned at once.

"When?"

"Just now."

"Where?" Fabian instinctively reached for the sword at his waist.

"Port. I'm going there right now," Lt. Parson said. Without being told, Fabian and Gideon followed Lt. Parson. They stood by the side of the boat, just against the railing and squinted into the darkness.

"Could it have been Tigershark?" Gideon asked." Tigershark would have light crystals. They're easy to spot," Fabian said. In fact, they could see Tigershark's blinking red light from an antenna from starboard. Light crystals on ships needed to be charged and changed, as they weren't able to draw energy from the ground due to being surrounded by water, so if a vessel did have light crystals, they were dim and very rare. There was just enough to ensure that people walking could see where they were going.

Though advanced, Lionfish Tau followed this procedure. Light from the vessel didn't go far at all. The surrounding darkness swallowed up light. Lt. Parson was quiet. Her eyes were fixed on the dark horizon. Fabian held his breath, afraid that breathing would ruin her concentration. He watched the seasoned officer tilt her head towards the water. Fabian watched her face freeze before she took a step back. Her low voice sent a chill through him.

"Soleil, von Dorn. Follow me," she said.

"Don't show any alarm." Fabian's jaw clenched. Something was out there and Lt. Parson knew it. They got closer to the corridor and towards one of the alarm bells. Fabian felt his heart racing.

"I'm going to send up an emergency beacon from my wristband. Soleil, if you see a ship illuminated by the light ring the alarm. Von Dorn, your duty is to cover Soleil. I will give the order to prepare defensive attacks. Understood?" She glanced at the young men on either side of her. Gideon nodded, his hand hovering over the rope used to ring the bell. Fabian's hand hovered over his sword.

"Ready when you are, Lieutenant." The woman took a deep breath. She raised her arm in the air and swiped at her wristband. There was no loud explosion or even whistle. All they saw was a flash of white shot up into the air and then seemed to shoot up into the sky before bursting, and shining light across the area that was so bright, it would've illuminated Tigershark. Fabian barely registered the smaller ship sailing next to theirs when Gideon began ringing the alarm like mad.

The light crystals on deck grew brighter and it was clear that another ship was not only close, but there were smaller ships coming. Metal sounded against metal and Fabian turned to the side to see metal hooks hook on to the metal railings.

"We're being boarded!" Fabian shot in front of Gideon.

"Stay behind me!"

"Lionfish, defense positions. Lionfish, defensive positions." A man's voice was calm over the speakers as several people, mostly sailors who were still in their sleep clothes or half-dressed poured out, swords in hand.

"Don't let them on board!" Gideon shouted.

"Team one, unhook the ladders and keep them from boarding. Team two, cover them! Team three protect His Highness!" Fabian began giving orders, sweeping forward as soon as four sailors surrounded Gideon. Fabian rushed to assist team one. He felt a sharp breeze go past his head and he shouted as he snapped his head back. An arrow was deflected by the midshipman's sword.

"There are arrows!" Fabian swore. He looked back at Gideon.

"Get him inside-" Another arrow shot past him and he barely had time to pull back. He stumbled back against the railing, but just as the small of his back hit it, someone grabbed his shirt. Fabian's eyes widened. He was pulled back. Gideon whirled around as he was being pushed inside the ship, his violet eyes growing large as Fabian felt himself falling backwards.

"Fabian!"

"It's all right, sir! I've got him!" The sound of a splash filled Fabian's senses, drowning out the rest of the voices, as the pain of slamming into the water's surface shot through his back. He could see bubbles against the light crystals shining from the ships. On one side, he saw the massive hull of Lionfish Tau, and dwarfed on the other, the shadow of the pirate ship. He shook himself out of his stupor and kicked upwards. He broke the surface and took a gulp of air.

Shouting was clearer now and he looked around. His ears were ringing and he squinted.

"Prepare the water cannons!" His eyes widened and he heard yelling as the pirates who were rowing towards the merchant ship turned back.

"Quickly! Do you have the crystal?" A hand slammed down on his shoulder and whirled around, frantic. He could make out the shape of someone's head bobbing in the water. It was not Gideon from the voice.

"Give it to me! I can put it on the ship!"

"Engineer Royce?" He almost choked on seawater. Did they not have this discussion? She was a civilian; she was not to participate."

"Yes, give it to me! Once they shoot the water cannons, the pirates will flee and no matter how fast I swim, I won't be able to catch up!" Fabian was torn between a race against time and involving a civilian. They heard the sound of wood creaking and he looked up to see a compartment door on the side of Lionfish Tau sliding open.

"What-""They're going to shoot the water cannon!" He felt hands on him and he almost sank, stunned. Engineer Royce was treading against him, patting him down remorselessly until she seemed to brush her hand against the pocket of his vest, near his abdomen.

"Found it!" Her hands grabbed him and if they weren't in the middle of two ships about to battle it out in the dark waters, he would've cried out or tried to push her away. He felt something leave his body and a moment later, splashing. He turned his head and saw the smooth, swift strokes. He drew his head back and frowned. He was a good swimmer and had been through the notorious Blue Crescent, but even after all his practice, he couldn't clear the distance she could in as fast a time.

It was as if she were built for the water. The only thing Fabian could do was try to catch up. Every time he lifted his head, he struggled to keep sight of her, or at the very least, keep sight of the ship. A rumble sounded above and behind him and before he could turn around, let alone figure out what the sound was, the pirate ship in front of him was hit with a jet of water and creaked loudly as it was pushed to one side. Fabian stopped swimming and looked about.

Another stream of water shot out from another compartment on Lionfish Tau and hit the stern of the pirate ship. Yelling was coming from the pirate ship as figures were clinging on to netting on the side as the ship swung to the side.

"Move!" A hand wrapped around his arm and pulled him in one direction. Fabian didn't know if it was left, right, or if they were going back or swimming away from Lionfish Tau. Whatever direction they were going, Fabian followed. She knew what she was doing more than he did and he had no shame in accepting his fate. As he raised his hand overhead and sliced through the water, he heard the yelling, creaking, and gushing of water. The chaotic noise didn't seem to end.

Fabian continued to swim until a hand grabbed him again. His other hand came down and hit something hard. He grimaced and touched the object floating in the water. He looked up and felt another hand grab his arm that was touching the wooden object.

"Let me go!" He snapped his head to the side and saw the struggling figure beside him pulled up.

"Engineer!" Fabian reached out his other arm, but was immediately restrained. His mind whirled as he was pulled up, his body scraping against the side of what appeared to be a small boat. His mind chanted a prayer, hoping that the small boat was a retrieval or small transport vessel from Lionfish Tau or Tigershark. The rapid voices of several men speaking in a language he didn't understand filled his head as he was tossed on the boat, his body falling against the soaking wet figure of Engineer Royce.

Though the source of light, the few light crystals onboard the ships, was far in the distance, he knew his prayers were in vain. He looked up at an unfamiliar face and held his breath. His hand went down to his side. His sword was gone.

"Are you all right?" Engineer Royce pushed herself into a seating position, keeping her eyes on the men on the boat with them as she spoke.

"I'm alive," Fabian replied in a low voice.

"How about you?" She lifted her hands and rubbed her wrists and arms.

"Nothing fatal. For now." Fabian narrowed his eyes, also keeping them on the men on the boat.

"Do you know what they're saying?"

"They're retreating, but they don't know what to do with us-oh...." Engineer Royce narrowed her eyes.

"Officer von Dorn, if we jump now, do you think you can make it back to Lionfish Tau?"

"Before they can grab us? Their odds are more favorable," Fabian said as his mind whirled. He couldn't swim that fast and there were smaller boats in the water he could run into. In addition, they had projectile weapons.

"I also think it's too dangerous to make an escape," she replied in a low voice as she leaned closer so as not to be heard.

"They don't seem to plan to kill yet. They want to take us back." Fabian did his best not to look over at her and give them away. There were seven people on the boat with them, and those seven likely had weapons on their persons. He lost his sword and he didn't think Engineer Royce had any weapons on her. Even if she did, he had no idea if she knew how to use them.

"Then, I don't think we have a choice." There were two men behind them and five in front, with four rowing and one looming over them with a sharp expression. The boat began to move forward, but away from the Lionfish Tau. The pirate ship was fleeing into the darkness, as well.

"Where do they think they're going? They won't be able to catch up with their ship."

"That may not have been their ship," she told him in a low voice.

"I don't think there was only one."