William's POV
As we walked down the path towards the ship, I took a deep breath and smiled to myself, grateful for the safety and warmth of the ship.
When we finally arrived, I immediately gave orders to the crew. "Prepare a warm bath for Ava."
The crew scrambled into action, carrying in buckets of steaming water and filling a small tub.
“Here.” I helped Ava out of her wet clothes and into the bath, the crew fussing over her to make sure she was comfortable. It was like watching them prepare a shrine for a goddess, and I felt a surge of pride at their devotion to our cause.
“Thank you,” Ava said as she settled into the water. I reached out to stroke her hair, and she clung to my arm like a young cub.
“I told you, you don't have to thank me.” For a moment, I felt a twinge of sadness.
