Resurrection

Chapter 8: A Beautiful Name For A Brave Girl

After Edward's quiet but intense morning, he knew he still had to show his face on the main deck, even if it was just for a minute. Edward exited his front door to a sea of death glares from his crew. He scanned their hateful faces, though he could not spot Jim or Stede. Unsurprisingly, this was a relief for him. Stede's blank, loveless face from a couple days ago has haunted Edward every moment he's been alone. Flashes of Stede's formerly kind, lively self would permeate Edward's mind as they always have, but then almost immediately, these comforting flashbacks became tarnished with the current reality. The only time this thought pattern didn't persist was when Edward was with Saraghina.

While on deck, Edward called to Izzy to meet him on the platform outside his cabin, like he'd done so many times before. However, this time it felt different. When Izzy approached Edward, Edward just handed him a marked, folded up map with a copy of some poorly written notes. Usually, the two men would discuss plans for the upcoming week, even if it was just for ten minutes. But this time, Izzy and Edward only locked eyes; Izzy's face painted with confusion, and Edward's expression sour.

"Have Spriggs bring lunch in a couple hours." Is all Edward grumbled to Izzy during the exchange. Izzy confusedly nodded, then watched as Edward quickly turned his back to him and the crew, then locked himself away in his lair once again.

Meanwhile, Saraghina continued her reading of The Canterbury Tales . She initially began to read it because Lucius said it was one of his favorite books, plus she wanted to practice reading English. The more she did so, the easier the more difficult words came to her. However, the more Saraghina read this specific story, the more scandalous the tale got. Part of her was unsure if it was her English reading skills, or if the book really was that filthy. Though some of the themes chastened her . . . she couldn't put it down.

As Saraghina sat on her bed reading, she suddenly heard a rhythmic knock on her door. It didn't sound like Edward's usual three knocks, it almost sounded like a percussive rhythm. She felt a brief pang of worry until she heard the voice from behind the door.

"Saraghina, dear, it's Lucius." said Lucius's pleasant voice from the other side. Saraghina felt a wave of relief travel through her body, and then a twinge of happiness. She scrambled out of bed and opened the door immediately.

Lucius is a delightful sight. He exudes comfort, at least for Saraghina.

"Lucius, how are you?" Saraghina asks as they embrace.

"I'm well, I brought some tea and lunch if you're interested. Roach and I came up with this new thing where I tie ropes to the tray and carry it almost like a flat bag. Though I think I only have another month in this cast, anyway." Lucius explains.

"That's smart." Saraghina says simply.

"What do you say we lock Ed in here while you and I have lunch? I'd love to hear what you think of the book." Lucius says playfully.

"Do you think he'll mind?" Saraghina asks genuinely.

"If it were just me, he would. For you, he'd be happy to." Lucius jests. Saraghina feels her heart do a little flutter.

Saraghina follows Lucius out of her small room and into the main cabin. She immediately notices Edward solemnly whittling a little wooden shape at his desk, the same thing he's been working on since she met him. When he notices her arrival, his face almost immediately lights up. Saraghina never gets tired of that.

"I think we'd like to have lunch out here, Ed. Care for a switch?" Lucius snarks.

Edward shoots Lucius a death glare. He knew this was most likely going to happen, he wanted Lucius and Saraghina to speak and enjoy each other's company. However, he never appreciates Lucius's blatant disrespect.