The Warlock (BxB)

Chapter 28

The group returned to Cordea, which was bustling with more people now that the corruption was gone. There were plenty of people before, but they were all gathered around the port as they looked out at the sea. The darkness that prevented the ships from coming and going was now gone. Even people without magic could sense a shift in the air all around them. It was safe for people to travel again, and they weren't afraid of tragedy striking them.

Maira stayed close to the prince. She was scared that at any moment, someone might recognize her even with the illusion active. If people found out who she was, she would be captured and executed. Staying near Casimir felt safe. Maira knew he wouldn't let anything happen to her as she clung to his arm. She could tell that Logain wasn't happy about her clinginess, but he kept his thoughts to himself. The warlock could have his man back once they were on the ship sailing away from Cordea. Until then, she wanted to stay near the person who she felt most comfortable to be around.

The ship captain who they spoke to before saw the men and approached them. He noticed Maira hanging on to Casimir and gave her a pleasant smile. If the captain had known who she truly was, he wouldn't have given her such a friendly look. Maira was currently the most hated witch in all of Cordea. After what she did, no one would forgive her that easily.

"Well, the corruption is gone. I'm assuming that's thanks to the two of you, but what of Maira, the witch who caused this trouble in the first place? If she's not properly dealt with, the same thing will happen to our city again," the captain said with concern in his voice.

Logain was quick to answer, "She's dead. We had a run-in with bandits, and they killed her. Maira is no more, so the witch won't cause any more trouble. I suggest something gets done about those bandits, though. And before you ask us to handle it, the answer is no. I want to return home."

The warlock was getting tired of lending a hand to help people. Having Casimir with him made it easier to deal with people, but Logain was exhausted. They were so close to finally leaving this nation and going back home. He couldn't wait to finally curl up in his cozy bed that was waiting for him. He hoped that his lie about Maira was convincing enough. If fewer people thought she was still alive, then they wouldn't suspect that the girl with them was actually the witch. Maira kept her head down regardless of the illusion. The illusion would stay until they reached Rasea, but she was being cautious.

Upon hearing that Maira was dead, the captain gave a sad smile. "I'm sorry to hear that. While Maira corrupted our nation, it is still sad to hear that she passed. She was so young. Unfortunately, since the corruption only just disappeared, my ship isn't quite ready to set sail yet. However, if you'd like, you're more than welcome to wait on board until we're ready. It should only take a day and then we can leave. My crew will get the ship prepared, and there are other passengers who would like to head to Rasea. Once everything is settled, we will leave."

Logain bit his tongue to stop himself from saying something sarcastic. He was beginning to grow grumpy after not being home for what felt like a while. He understood that these things took time, but the warlock was impatient. He opened his mouth to say something, but Casimir put a hand on his shoulder.

"Of course, please take your time. My companions have grown tired after our journey, so we'd love to rest on the ship for a little while," Casimir responded, giving the captain a friendly smile. He needed to say something before Logain ran his mouth again. The warlock could be a little gruff at times.

The captain had one of the crew members show them to their cabins for the night. They were each given their own cabin to stay in and were offered a meal before turning in for the night. Maira was the first to retire to her cabin, leaving the two men alone together. She promised to stay in her room and not cause any trouble. Logain was skeptical, but the prince wanted to believe in her. After getting this far, he doubted she would run away. She was so close to freedom.