[44] The Departure

Back at Sea Wolves HQ, I found Elara overseeing the daily operations with her usual efficiency and command. I approached her, knowing the importance of the conversation we were about to have.

"Elara, I need to talk to you about something," I began, my tone serious.

She turned to face me, her expression shifting to one of attention. "What's up? You look like you've got something big on your mind."

"I'm heading to the New Roman Empire on a diplomatic mission," I said, watching her closely for a reaction. "It's a delicate situation, but it could open new opportunities for us."

Her eyebrows shot up. "The NRE? That's a fking hornet's nest, Wang. Are you sure about this?"

I nodded. "Yeah, I know the risks. But it's a chance we need to take. And I need you to hold down the fort here at Sea Wolves while I'm gone."

Elara crossed her arms, a slight frown creasing her brow. "Fine, I can handle things here. But are you going alone?"

"No, I'm taking Sophie with me," I replied, anticipating her concern. "She'll assist me on this mission."

Elara let out a low whistle. "Sophie, huh? Well, she's capable, but still... Be fking careful, both of you. The NRE isn't exactly welcoming to outsiders."

"I'll be careful, I promise," I assured her, feeling the weight of her concern.

She stepped closer to me, her eyes searching mine. "You better be. We can't afford to lose you. You're a big part of what we're building here."

Before I could respond, she pulled me into a deep, unexpected tongue kiss. It was a bold move, typical of Elara's no-holds-barred personality. I was taken aback, my heart racing, but I found myself returning the kiss, caught up in the moment.

As suddenly as it began, she pulled away, leaving me slightly dazed. "Try not to get yourself killed out there, okay?" she said, a hint of vulnerability peeking through her tough exterior.

I blushed, still reeling from the kiss. "Y-Yeah, I won't. Thanks, Elara."

She gave me a final nod, her usual assertive demeanor back in place. "Good. Now go on and do what you need to do. And remember, you've got a crew waiting for your safe return."

"I will." I smirked.

***

The morning sun cast a golden hue over the docks of the Sea Wolves HQ as Sophie and I prepared to embark on our journey to the New Roman Empire. Our boat, a sturdy and sleek vessel, bobbed gently in the water, ready for the voyage.

On the dock, Cassandra, the Twin Terrors, Hawkins, and Elara stood to see us off. The atmosphere was a mix of solemnity and anticipation.

Cassandra, her one eye surveying the boat, spoke first. "Make sure you watch your back in the NRE, Wang. It's a different world up there."

Jolly Roger, with his typical smirk, chimed in. "Yeah, and try not to fuck things up, alright? We need you back in one piece."

Rackham Ray added, his tone serious for once, "Keep your eyes open. The NRE's a snake pit. Don't let them get the better of you."

Old Man Hawkins nodded in agreement. "Remember, diplomacy is a subtle art. Listen more than you talk, and you might just come out ahead."

Elara stepped forward, her expression a complex mix of concern and confidence. "You've got this, Wang. Just... be careful, okay?"

I nodded, appreciating their words and the trust they placed in me. "Thanks, everyone. I'll be cautious. We'll make sure to represent the Sea Wolves well."

Sophie, standing beside me, looked a bit nervous but determined. She gave a small wave to the group. "We won't let you down."

With that, we boarded the boat, the sails unfurling as we caught the morning breeze. I took one last look at the familiar faces on the dock, their figures getting smaller as we sailed away.

The journey was smooth, the boat cutting through the waves with ease. Sophie and I spent the time going over our strategy and what we hoped to achieve in the New Roman Empire.

A day later, we arrived at Vespera, a bustling port city that served as a gateway between the continents. The city was a melting pot of cultures and trade, with a vibrant energy that was both exhilarating and intimidating.

As we docked, Sophie looked out at the busy harbor, her eyes wide. "This place is incredible, Wang. So different from anything in the Devil's Choke."

I grinned, taking in the sights and sounds of Vespera. "Welcome to the big leagues, Sophie. Vespera is the crossroads of the world. Everything and everyone passes through here at some point."

We disembarked, stepping onto the crowded docks. The air was filled with the shouts of traders, the smell of exotic spices, and the distant sound of sea shanties.

"Remember, we're here on a diplomatic mission," I reminded Sophie as we made our way through the throngs of people. "If you don't know what to do, just follow my lead."

Sophie smiles and closes her eyes and replies: "Hai! Master!"

Q: Are you a risk taker?