Captain Hanji

Chap 1

The sun beat down onto me harshly. A beautiful Spring morning along the Pacific Coastline. The sea always unhinged me. You never know what's lurking down below, millions of creatures of all sorts. Hanji loved to remind me of that. I met Hanji about 5-6 years ago, we were both around 19. They were docking at my town's bay, down in Argentina where I'm from. It was a hot Summer day, the sunlight was much harsher than usual. I will always remember walking past their boat and thinking "pirates" and that's when I knew I found my calling. I always loved the book 'The Old Man and the Sea'. I dreamt about sailing across the world. My daydreaming was interrupted by a soft voice that said "she's a beauty ain't she!" I looked up to see a sweet smile.

"Mhm. She's gorgeous. What model is she? A Galleon?" I asked as my eyes scanned over the giant boards of stained oak.

"Correct! Named her "Dependence" since I'll depend on her for the rest of my life!" They said proudly.

I giggled. We made eye contact.Their eyes sparkled in the sun.

"Mm, you sure are determined." I remarked.

"It's my purpose. A purpose that can't possibly be fulfilled. But I can only try and never disappoint!" They said.

A short wave of comfortable silence flooded our presence.

"Oh! I'm Hanji Zoe. Sorry for the late but sudden introduction", they said as they reached their hand out in hopes of a handshake.

I took their hand in mine, "Wonderful to meet you Hanji Zoe. I am Valentina Martez."

"Ooooh! Like "Valentine"! That's so adorable", they squealed excitedly.

I gave them a wide and cheeky smile and chuckled.

"I've been looking for an astronomer to guide me along my journey. Know anyone? You seem like the type who would." Hanji asked.

Well, you're in luck. I myself am an astronomer." I said proudly.

"Oh! That's incredible! Okay, would you be interested in joining my crew?" Hanji suggested.

"Maybe. I'm a little nervous about the ocean. That's why I stuck with the stars." I confessed.

"Understandable. I promise I'll be sure to protect you if you do decide to join." Hanji smiled.

Heat rose to my cheeks.

"May I have some time to think about it? If so, how much time?" I asked.

"Take as much time as you need! Although, I am leaving for a 1 month long trip this afternoon." Hanji said.

I frowned. Suddenly, the church bell rang, It's noon. Oh crap! I have to deliver my notes!

"Oh dear! I have to go, I have something to deliver." I said hurrying. I handed them my address on a piece of paper I dug out of my leather cross bag.. "Here's my address. Write to me while you're gone! I'll have decided by the time you're back! Goodbye." I said.

They choked up and grabbed the paper. I hurried off and ran towards the workshop.