Till the world's end|| (pirate!au) -'๑'-Ateez

Haiti

"Captain, why do you look like you didn't shit since last night?" a voice rang out, breaking the silence as Captain Hongjoong stood alone in his quarters.

Startled, Hongjoong turned to see Wooyoung emerging from the shadows, his expression a mix of curiosity and amusement.

"I'm sorry, Wooyoung, what?" Hongjoong responded, his disbelief evident in his tone as he tried to mask the tumultuous emotions churning within him.

Wooyoung stepped closer, his gaze unwavering. "You seem... different. Is everything alright?"

Hongjoong's facade faltered for a moment, "I'm fine, mind your business"

The younger just shrugged and walked away to wake up his roommate

The ship sailed steadily through the approaching dawn, a faint glow painted the horizon. Captain Hongjoong stood at the helm, his eyes focused on the distant line where the sea met the sky. The weight of the night's conversation lingered in his thoughts, a silent echo of the conflicts he kept hidden.

As the first rays of sunlight pierced through the darkness, the outline of land became visible on the horizon. The port of Paix in Haiti emerged, a welcome sight after the vast expanse of the open sea. Hongjoong's gaze sharpened, and a rare glint of anticipation flickered in his eyes.

He turned to the ship, his voice cutting through the morning air. "Land ho! Port de Paix, Haiti is in sight!" His words were met with Mingi, who emerged from the underdeck.

"I'll handle it from here, Captain. You should rest," Mingi suggested, his voice firm yet respectful.

Hongjoong hesitated for a moment, considering Mingi's offer. The weariness from the night's conflicts weighed on him, and the prospect of handing over the reins, even momentarily, seemed like a welcomed respite.

"Alright, Mingi. Make sure the ship is secured and assist the crew with the docking," Hongjoong instructed, acknowledging Mingi's competence.

Mingi nodded in understanding, a sense of responsibility etched on his features. "Rest well, Captain. We've got it covered."

With that assurance, Hongjoong took a step back, allowing Mingi to take charge. The transition was seamless, a testament to the trust that bound the crew together. As the ship approached the harbor, Mingi confidently assumed his role, guiding the ship through the final stages of docking.

Hongjoong, appreciative of Mingi's initiative, turned away, his gaze lingering on the awakening port of Paix. The rhythmic sounds of the ship's docking became a background melody, and with Mingi at the helm, the captain allowed himself a moment of reprieve.

The prospect of rest beckoned, and Hongjoong retreated to his quarters, leaving the capable hands of his crew to navigate the ship into port.

The ship glided toward the harbor, guided by the skilled hands of the crew who had woken up moments ago. The sails adjusted, and the familiar sounds of the ship docking echoed through the air. The rhythmic thud of the anchor settling into the seabed marked the end of the voyage.

Seonghwa stepped to the edge of the ship, his gaze fixed on the bustling port ahead. The aroma of salt and sea mingled with the promise of new shores. The crew moved with practiced efficiency, securing the ship and preparing for the upcoming tasks.

Meanwhile, Hypaxia sat by Soren's bedside, the excitement bubbling within her. The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the room, casting a warm light on her determined expression. Holding her brother's hand, she whispered words of reassurance.

"We're going to save you," she murmured, her voice a vow against the backdrop of the ship's activity. The promise hung in the air, a testament to the unwavering bond that fueled her determination.