Take me home | Seongjoong

Calm Before the Storm

The decision was unanimous. The crew of the Black Siren would follow the treasure map they had uncovered on the merchant ship, their next destination a small, uncharted island that promised even greater riches. With the wind at their backs and the map securely tucked away in Hongjoong's cabin, they set sail, the thrill of the unknown fueling their journey.

As the days turned into weeks, the excitement of the raid and the discovery of the map began to settle into the routine of life at sea. The crew returned to their usual tasks, the rhythm of their work a comforting constant. The ship's sails billowed in the steady breeze, and the endless expanse of the ocean stretched out in every direction, the horizon a thin line between sky and water.

For the first time in what felt like forever, life aboard the Black Siren was peaceful. The wounds from the battle were healing, both physically and emotionally, and the crew seemed content as they prepared for their next adventure.

But Seonghwa couldn't shake the feeling that this calm was merely a prelude to something more ominous. It was as if the sea itself was holding its breath, waiting for a storm to break. Yet, despite the nagging sense of foreboding, Seonghwa chose to push those thoughts aside. He was here, with people he cared about, and for now, that was enough.

Days aboard the Black Siren were filled with work, laughter, and camaraderie. One morning, Wooyoung, always eager to experiment with new flavors, decided to use some of the exotic spices they had acquired during the raid to prepare a feast for the crew. The aroma of saffron, cinnamon, and cloves wafted through the ship, making everyone's mouths water in anticipation.

"Alright, everyone, gather 'round!" Wooyoung called out as he set up a makeshift dining area on the deck. "Today, we're eating like kings!"

The crew gathered eagerly, the usual rations of hardtack and salted meat forgotten as they eyed the colorful dishes Wooyoung had prepared. There were rice dishes infused with saffron, roasted meats seasoned with spices from far-off lands, and even a sweet pudding made with cloves and honey.

Seonghwa took a bite of the saffron rice, the warm, earthy flavor exploding on his tongue. He couldn't help but smile as he watched the crew dig in, their usual banter replaced with sounds of appreciation for Wooyoung's culinary skills.

"This is incredible," San said around a mouthful of food, grinning at Wooyoung. "I didn't know you had it in you, Wooyoung."

Wooyoung puffed out his chest proudly, clearly pleased with the praise. "I aim to please," he replied with a wink. "Besides, we deserve a little luxury every now and then, don't you think?"

The meal was a welcome break from the monotony of life at sea, and as they ate, the crew's spirits lifted even higher. It was a moment of simple joy, a reminder that even in their unpredictable lives, there were still moments of peace and happiness to be found.

On another day, Seonghwa found himself on the quarterdeck, watching as Jongho carefully cleaned and polished the ship's cannons. The younger pirate was meticulous in his work, his strong hands moving with practiced precision as he inspected each cannon, ensuring that they were in perfect condition.

"Need any help?" Seonghwa asked, approaching Jongho with a smile.

Jongho looked up, surprised but pleased by the offer. "Sure," he said, handing Seonghwa a rag and some oil. "I could use another pair of hands."

The two of them worked side by side in companionable silence for a while, the sound of the waves and the occasional cry of a seabird the only noises around them. As they cleaned the cannons, Seonghwa found himself feeling a sense of camaraderie with Jongho, a quiet understanding that didn't need words.