Kat stood out on a small balcony of Heron's palace that overlooked a quiet street. The sun had already set, and the few people still left in the streets below were already scurrying back to their homes. She smiled as she watched a young mother guide her toddler son back inside, the boy clearly not ready to stop playing for the night and throwing a fit as he was nearly dragged back inside by the exhausted mother.

No matter what country she visited, those scenes tended to always play out the same way. Young children were always the same whether they were in Sorella, or Galicia, or Apulia, or Samara. In a way, it was most comforting for her to remember that life went on, no matter the ordeal or amount of suffering.

Kat heard the scuffling of feet from behind her and turned her head toward the noise. Another pair of blue eyes and blonde hair came into view as Vera made her way to the balcony.

"There you are," said Vera as she came to a rest. "I was wondering where you went."

Kat smiled politely. "I didn't mean to offend. I just wanted a short break."

All of Vera's friends had settled in the wing of Heron's palace and had watched with rapt attention as the young woman recounted their tale of the treasure hunt. The women of the deceased king's harem were a most attentive audience, cheering at the most appropriate times. And while Kat greatly enjoyed their company, there came a moment when she wanted a bit of quiet. It was for that reason that she went walking around the small palace, finding the balcony on the second floor, the door hard to open from the lack of use.

"I hope we weren't bothering you," said Vera as her smile melted away.

Kat touched Vera's arm. "Not in the slightest! I found your retelling of the story particularly entertaining!"

Vera giggled. "It was a great adventure. It almost reminds me of the days sailing with my father to faraway lands."

"Yes it was," said Kat fondly. "And now that it's over, I find myself a little melancholy and unsure what to do."

Vera started to nod. "That thought had occurred to me as well. I know Heron has offered all of the former whores the chance to stay at his palace until we can get back on our feet. And he's been just wonderful, although I'm not sure if I want to take him up on that offer."

Kat turned to face her. "What would you do instead? Have you given that any thought?"

Vera pursed her lips and nodded. "I've thought about staying with Jack. I've thought a lot about that, to be honest."

Kat gulped. "What makes you want to stay with him?"

Vera shrugged. "I'm not sure if I can explain it. It's not that though," she said when Kat gave her a knowing look. Kat's eyebrows relaxed and a more neutral expression formed on her face.

"It's just so hard for me to explain," said Vera while rubbing her hand lightly over her chest. "I feel like I should be with him. It's hard to explain but the thought of never seeing him again is frightening."

Kat nodded as her suspicions were finally confirmed. "I feel a connection with him as well."

Vera nudged her. "Well, I think yours might be deeper than mine." She giggled as the other woman started to turn red, remembering their previous conversation on Mount Tarpeious.

Kat's eyes drifted back to the street. "I'm not sure I know what you mean!"

"Yes, you do," insisted Vera. "I've seen the way you look at each other. And I especially noticed on the path the many times you looked back to him with a smile on your face. You like him a great deal, don't you?"

Kat took a deep breath. "It's not that easy, Vera."

"Why not? If two people fancy each other, why can't it be that easy?"

"It's just not," said Kat quietly. "It's hard for me to explain too."

Vera wrapped her arm around the other woman. "I know you have your own calling and your own quest but all of us could go together. Me, you, and Jack. Of course, I wouldn't get in your way or anything when you want to make your move."

"Vera," warned Kat with an exaggerated sigh.

Vera giggled. "I wouldn't! But this doesn't have to be the end for our journey together. And when you were ready for something to happen between him and you, you'd be on your own timetable."

"Well, I have agreed to help him once we leave Sorella," said Kat finally. "To go to Picardy."

Vera clapped her hands. "See? That would be perfect. And I could go to Picardy as well because let's face it—I have no other plans."

Kat smiled. "I would be happy if you came with us. I do greatly appreciate your company, and I'd be upset if you stayed here in Sorella."

Vera beamed with a smile. "I think that settles it then. I'll go with you to Picardy. Besides, didn't you say you had your own house in Picardy?"

"Of course," answered Kat. "Just off the western coast. A small island on the way to the capital city, Daban."

Vera clapped excitedly again. "We should go see it! This would be the perfect time for a side excursion! We could stay a few days, and you could show me where you live. That would be perfect."

Kat smiled politely. "I'd love to but I doubt we'd be able to convince Jack to stop his entire force just so we could stop a few days at my house. I'd feel irresponsible to even ask."

Vera pursed her lips once again. "It's something to think about regardless. Besides, didn't you say it was on a tiny island? A nice beach and endless sunshine?"

Kat nodded. "Yes to all of that. It's a beautiful little home and it's been incredible for me. I just haven't been able to be there much with all of my travels."

"It might be that now is the perfect time to go back," said Vera. "Before we start the next leg of our adventure!"

"I'll think about it," said Kat with a giggle. Privately, she knew of another good reason to go back to her house in Picardy. Something that would be very useful to her mission awaited her back at home. This would be an excellent chance to recover it considering the current events.

"Please do! Then we can be off to Picardy and then wherever Jack takes us," said Vera with a dreamy expression. "It will be perfect."

"As long as we don't wind up in the middle of a war," said Kat, trying to bring the other woman back to reality. "There's a lot of tensions right now. It wouldn't be a pleasure cruise."

Vera blinked. "I know but with everything that's been going on, I feel like we've earned a respite from reality for now. Even if that just means spending a few nights away from everything at your home. It'll be a way for us to relax before we get into the thick of things once again."

Kat bit her lip. "We may need to arrange for other means of transportation. And we couldn't stay too long. We'd need to meet Jack again right after."

Vera rushed in to hug her. "I can't wait to see your home!"

"I'm sure it will be better off than the quarters we'd get on one of Jack's ships," said Kat. "That is, if we are so lucky to get our own room!"

Vera pulled away to look at her. "With the way he looks at you, I'm sure he'd offer to give you his own personal quarters. Just as long as he's in it."

Kat turned a deep red. "Vera!"

"I'm just saying," said Vera with a giggle. "You can't tell me you haven't noticed it too."

Kat shot her a guilty look.

"See? I knew it," said Vera triumphantly.

"We almost kissed last night," said Kat quietly, remembering her time spent near the fire with him.

"Almost? Why almost?" asked Vera.

"It was because my watch was over and Heron woke up to assume his. If we'd only have gotten to it earlier in the conversation, it probably would have happened."

"Wait a second," said Vera. "He was up with you most of the night? During most of your watch?"

Kat nodded. "And then the king had the worst timing," she added with a small giggle.

"Well then, perhaps we need to arrange something different," said Vera with a mischievous look in her eye.

"What do you mean?" asked Kat.

"I mean, if you are having trouble with privacy, we have a whole wing of this palace all to ourselves. I wouldn't mind giving up my room if you needed some private time with Jack when he gets back."

Kat turned red once again. "Vera, what you're suggesting—"

"—is what people do naturally when they like each other," interrupted the other woman. "Besides, you'd never know what can happen once you have a little privacy!"

*****

Nikias waited for the two servants to continue down the hall before making a move. His current position was wrapped around one of the columns of the palace, taking advantage of the shadow created by the structure to hide his presence.

"I'm just saying," said the one servant. "I liked it a little better when there weren't so many mouths to feed!"

"Egor, what a mean-spirited thing to say," said the other servant as they started to get further away from Nikias. "We only have jobs because of them."

"We still had jobs before they returned too," said Egor sullenly.

Nikias waited until their voices all but diminished, and once he was comfortable it was just him in the hallway, he pushed out from the column and headed down the long corridor. He knew exactly where he was going. This small guest bedroom was on the king's side of the palace, not far from his personal chambers. Yet, Nikias knew with how late it was, the king wouldn't be back to the palace tonight. There was a small window of opportunity, and he intended to take full advantage of it.

The minister darted down the rest of the hallway, coming to a stop right behind the door itself. Producing the key, he unlocked it and quickly stepped inside, turning the lock until he heard the comforting click of the bolt slip into place behind him. In front of him was a set of stairs, no more than ten high, and they rounded along the wall meaning that he couldn't see what was past the stairs. Nikias started to head up, reaching the fifth step before he heard the challenge of another voice.

"Who's there?"

Nikias stopped for a moment and smiled to himself. "It's me. Who else would it be?"

The voice waited several seconds before responding. "You're late."

"I got tied up. Too many servants in this portion of the palace. I figured you'd rather me be secretive instead of just barging in here."

"Or maybe you should've just left earlier," said the voice in a playful tone.

Nikias chuckled and ascended the rest of the stairs. At the top was a small bedroom. This particular bedroom was in one of the towers that made up the corner of the palace, and for that reason, it had no windows. It wasn't used much for that reason, and most of the furniture was covered in dust, but it made for an excellent meeting place for anyone looking for privacy.

And Nikias needed the privacy. So too did the occupant already on the bed. Hidden by a thick blanket already, the only thing that stuck out was the long, red tresses of her hair.

Nikias came to a stop at the top of the stairs and leaned against the wall. "That's a sight I'd like to burn into my memory forever."

"What's that?" asked Elektra with a coy grin.

"The way you look right now, under the covers in bed," he answered. "It's a sight I've long since imagined."

"Is reality better than your dream?" she asked while pulling away the top of the blanket. She was topless underneath, and his gaze fixed on her pink, erect nipples.

Nikias bit his lip. "You have no idea," he whispered hoarsely.

Elektra covered herself back up playfully. "I'm not sure if I should let you come any closer. Being late as you were. Perhaps you don't want me as badly as you say!"

Nikias took another step forward. "What could I do to show the depth of my desire for you?"

Elektra shrugged her shoulders as her eyes rolled up in thought. "You could come up with a few ways of showing me. If you're creative enough, perhaps this can continue!"

He took a few more steps forward until he reached the foot of the bed. "So try harder then?"

Elektra moaned gently. "Mm-hmm."

He reached for her feet under the blanket, softly caressing each of them in both of his hands. "How's this for a start?"

Elektra pushed up on her elbows to look at him. "We'll see," she answered with a playful roll of the shoulders.

Nikias grinned as he uncovered the rest of her feet. He leaned down closer to her and brought them to his lips. Placing a subtle kiss against the exposed flesh of her feet, his eyes searched out hers. Elektra gave a sigh of content before giving him a nod of approval. Again, he kissed her foot, placing a trail of kisses that started near her ankle and began to roll up her leg.

"Now that feels quite nice," purred Elektra.

He responded by sliding his tongue along her calf. "Are you sure we have total privacy tonight?"

Elektra nodded. "Of course. Papa won't be back and no one has any reason to come down here anyway. We're perfectly secluded."

"Good, I don't want to be disturbed with what I have in mind," growled Nikias.

"What do you have in mind?" she asked coyly.

"Honestly?" he asked while locking his gaze on her. "I don't want to leave this room until I've made you orgasm at least twenty or thirty times."

"Nikias!" Elektra playfully mocked his tone. "How dare you say those words to the princess!"

He started to chuckle before gently spreading her legs and placing several kisses along her inner thigh. Elektra moaned in response.

"I certainly know how to dive into trouble," he added coyly.

"Mm-hmm, yes you do," she agreed. "Please don't stop. And let's aim for closer to thirty instead of twenty, okay?"

"Your wish is my command," he said before slowly sliding onto bed. Elektra helped him by pulling the blanket further up her body. Soon, just about all of her lower half was visible to his eyes, her silky, smooth legs ripe for his hands and kisses. He wasted no time as he began a series of kisses that started on her inner thigh just above her knee. Watching her response, Nikias kissed all the way up until he felt her source of heat, but instead of continuing, he switched to the other leg and kissed back down to her knee.

"You tease," she whispered.

"I can't make it that easy for you," he said with a grin. "You may start to grow bored with me!"

Elektra pouted quietly while he repeated the motion, ending at her other knee once again. Her body began to squirm, and soon enough, her hips began to rock in anticipation. It was at the moment that he decided to stop teasing her so much and let his kiss drift higher up her thigh. Elektra's mouth fell open as his lips brushed across her mound, and he watched her grab the bed as he landed on her slick lips for the first time.

Nikias received his first taste of her and he was hooked. Sliding his tongue along her open slit, he received a healthy amount of her own wetness along his tongue. The sweet yet tangy taste was enough to have him bury his face further. Soon, Elektra was panting.

"Oh my stars, that's so good," she cooed as her hands slipped through his hair. More than once, she grabbed a fistful of his dark locks, especially as his tongue contacted her clit.

"I love the way you taste," he whispered as his eyes locked on her. Elektra smiled demurely and soon arched her back as his tongue went back to action. Soon enough, his fingers replaced his tongue and began to tease her while he focused all his attention on her clit. Making a sucking movement with his mouth, he teased the nub endlessly and alternated between sucking and rubbing it with the tip of his tongue.

"Oh, fuck, right there!" she moaned while pressing her mound tight against his face. "Right there, Nikias!"

He kept firm pressure on her clit while teasing her pussy with his fingers. As Elektra's hips began to buck and roll in pleasure, he struggled to hang on. In the next few moments though, she completely let loose.

She started to pant heavily as one last moan left her lips. In the next instant, he tasted a fluid of juices explode into his mouth and then drip down his chin as Elektra writhed in delight. Her body convulsed through her orgasm until falling nearly still once more. After a few moments of silence, she finally opened her eyes to look at him.

"You . . . that . . . incredible," she whispered while still being out of breath.

"I'm glad you enjoyed that," he answered with a slight chuckle. "Twenty-nine more to go?"

Elektra giggled. "You might kill me by the end of it if you actually intend to give me that many."

"I'll give you as many as you allow me and one more for good measure. I'll never stop treating you exactly how you deserve," he said candidly.

Elektra's eyes glistened with affection and tears, and she beckoned him to come closer to her face. He slid up her body slowly, making sure to kiss each exposed portion of her body on his way up. Her mound, her belly, her breasts—every part received a sucking kiss as he made his way north. Finally hitting the last stretch, Nikias trailed kisses along her neck to her jaw and finally reached her lips. In a move that surprised him, Elektra grabbed his face and pressed the most passionate of kisses against his, her tongue slipping into his mouth for a duel with his.

"You taste a little . . . different," said Elektra with a giggle as she pulled away.

"You mean I taste like you."'

"Exactly, and that's different."

He gently caressed her face. "I could do this with you all night. And all tomorrow, if you let me."

"My father will be back tomorrow morning," said Elektra. "So we only have tonight."

"Let's make it count then," said Nikias firmly.

He pushed up on his hands as he slid his body between her legs. Elektra held them open wide so he could slip into place, all the while leaning up to gently kiss his chest while he took hold of his cock. Placing himself at her slick entrance, he gave a gentle thrust of his hips.

"Mmm," moaned Elektra as the tip slid inside. "I've only thought about this a thousand times."

Nikias slid another inch inside, causing her to throw her arms around his neck. His eyes rolled to the back of his head as he pulled his hips back and thrust forward again. Her hot, wet channel enveloped him completely, drenching his member in a velvety smooth, yet tight grip. Looking down and knowing that it was Elektra that he was inside was the best part.

Nikias leaned down to place a deep, passionate kiss against her lips as he pushed in further. She met his hips in a steady counterthrust and soon enough, they had the beginning of a slow, yet forcible rhythm.

"Oh my, I feel so full," said Elektra as soon as he was completely inside of her. Nikias looked between them, hoping to burn into his brain forever the sight of being totally one with her. Elektra noticed his movement almost immediately. "What is it, Nikias?"

He looked back up at her and smiled. "It's nothing. I feel like I've just wanted this for so long and now it's finally here. You're the only woman I've ever wanted and now this is real."

She smiled and kissed him gently. "Yes, it is. I've waited so long for you, my Nikias. Don't make me wait any longer, please?"

He kissed her in response as his hips started to piston once more. Elektra's legs wrapped around his waist, and soon their movements synchronized in a beautiful and fervent way. What's more, while they were locked below the waist, above it their arms held each other tightly and their lips stayed pressed together. It was a completely tender and emotional journey for the two of them as they made quiet, but passionate love in the locked bedroom of the palace.

Soon, a heavy layer of sweat covered them both as their movements became more vigorous, their hips pistoning in torrid fury as they ached to reach the next high together. For Nikias, the softness of her body under him, the slick wetness around his cock, and the gentle caress of Elektra's lips had him swimming in a sea of total arousal. Her passion was quickly building him up for release.

Elektra seemed to be nearing the edge as well. Her mouth fell open as she started to pant heavily and soon her head was rolling side to side. As her hips began thrusting up with more force, it was obvious she would reach orgasm soon.

"I'm going to cum," she whispered as the slick wet sound of their bodies joining filled the room.

"I'm almost there," he whispered in return, locking eyes on the gorgeous redhead.

Soon she began to shudder out of control. She clamped down, and once more he felt himself drenched from the flow of her juices. Elektra's mouth hung open as she made the most adorable noises, her body shivering with delight as it reached the final plateau.

Just as quickly as it appeared, so too did it dissipate. Her eyes popped open with a satisfied expression as her orgasm began to subside and soon she focused all her attention on him and helping him to achieve sweet release.

Elektra grabbed him tightly as her hips pushed his cock as deep as he could go. Their bodies were completely one in that moment, with not even air between them. She caressed his face so gently before looking up to him with one final request on her lips.

"In me, Nikias. Please?"

Hearing the words was the ultimate trigger. In the next moment, he started to lose control. His hips jerked several times before he pressed them as deep as he could go and soon, a hot flow of cum began to erupt from inside to paint her inner walls.

"Oh, yes, I can feel it," moaned Elektra. She held him tightly as he came deeply inside her womb, never once slackening her grip on the man she'd desired for years.

Finally, Nikias recovered, and as the last drop of his essence fell into the princess, he was finally able to look up at her.

"As good as you thought it would be?" she asked with a coy smile on her lips.

Nikias started to chuckle. "Better."

"Great answer." She kissed him in response, their tongues dueling with little of the passion that had just consumed them. This kiss was more about savoring the deed that had been such a long time coming.

"I don't know how long we'll be able to keep this a secret," said Nikias finally after several minutes of kissing.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean I'm going to want to kiss you now every time I see you," he said with a laugh. "It's going to be so hard to keep this under wraps."

Elektra started to giggle. "Only for a short time. Until we can persuade father to let us marry."

"And if he doesn't let us?"

Elektra took a deep breath. "We can't stop trying. This is worth it. It's so worth it, right, Nikias?"

He nodded eagerly. "I couldn't want anything else in my life. I've only ever wanted you."

She kissed him with more passion as her hips started to thrust back against his.

"What are you doing?" he laughed as he arched an eyebrow.

Elektra grinned. "We still have twenty-eight to go still, my secret lover."

*****

Commodore Stanhope Lucas was pacing.

He'd lost count of the number of times he had crossed from one end of his office to the other but now was no time for sitting still. There was too much going on and too much to worry about. The commodore approached the window that looked out to the naval base of Quiller's Cove and sighed. All he could see were the beacon lights that rimmed the inner harbor at this time of night. It made the base appear calmer than it actually was. Especially with the enemy on the horizon.

Ever since his submarine picket had caught the sight and course of an Occitanian force steaming just fifteen nautical miles away from the base, Lucas had been on edge. The report had been enough to make any commander's heart race—two battleships, four cruisers, and a host of destroyers. It was a force that could sink any Javan task force on this side of the world, especially with the pride of their navy still bottled up in Aberdeen.

It wasn't to say that he didn't have his own forces at the base, but the two cruisers and handful of destroyers and frigates would get blasted if it attempted to intercept the more powerful Occitanian force. Especially if they were coming to Quiller's Cove.

But why wouldn't they? It was the furthest Javan outpost this far west and the last stopping point before entering the territory of the Fourth Vector. It's strategic position near the middle of east and west made it a prize for any commander who had the will to take it. And this Occitanian force had both the will, reason, and muscle to snatch it from his grasp.

After several moments spent peering out at the bay, his deputy, Lt. Settler, finally entered the room. In his hand was a fresh dispatch.

"Latest orders from the Admiralty, Commodore," said Settler before handing off the dispatch.

Lucas took the dispatch from his deputy and quickly scanned the contents.

ATTN: COMMODORE STANHOPE LUCAS

REINFORCEMENTS ARE ON THE WAY. STAND FAST TO KEEP THE OCCITANIAN FLEET AT BAY. THE EMPEROR EXPECTS YOU TO DO YOUR DUTY TO THE UTMOST.

ADMIRAL PERCIVAL BANCROFT

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, IMPERIAL JAVAN NAVY

Lucas scoffed at the message and crumbled it up, tossing it in the nearby trash. Even in wartime, the stiff-necked Bancroft couldn't keep his haughtiness or hatred at a minimum. As if it had to be stated that he would do his duty to the utmost. That should have been implied without an additional thought.

Yet, in a way, the news was positive. Reinforcements were coming. The question was from where? They were still a good distance from Java so any ships coming from that direction may only find the smoking ruins of Quiller's Cove should the Occitanians decide to press their advantage. Likewise, Jack Easterbrook was still in the Vector, but he was also a good distance away and would need the extra time to arrive. Neither position seemed great.

He once more looked out the window toward the harbor, his eyes catching the sight of one of the garrison artillery pieces being rolled into place. They were lucky in that regard, in that the base was well-stocked with enough artillery to make assaulting it a costly affair for any attacking power but that was a last resort. Even the artillery wouldn't be able to hold this force off for very long.

Even still, it was the best he had to work with. And if he had to make his last stand at Quiller's Cove, Lucas was determined to make history with the story of how they made the Occitanians bleed for every drop of land they sought.

Lucas turned around to look at his deputy. "Settler, the submarine pickets that are guarding the western approaches to the island, I want you to give order to move them."

Settler looked at him with a confused expression. "Move them, sir?"

"Yes," said Lucas with a nod. "I want you to position them just a few miles out from the entrance to the harbor. I want you to array them in a semi-circle for a defensive position. If any Occitanian forces come within range, they are to sink as many of them as they can before retreating back to the base."

Settler nodded. "I'll radio the order out to the sub commanders at once, sir."

"Get another message out while you're at it," added Lucas. "Everyone is to be on the highest alert for enemy activity. I want everyone prepared like we could be attacked at any moment."

Settled saluted. "I'll get it out right away, sir."

The deputy quickly turned heel and left the office. Lucas gave one last glance out to the harbor before turning to his desk. Looking at his command radio, he was tempted to give a warning out to Jack. An Occitanian force this far west could spell trouble for him as well, especially with two battleships. He'd had only the briefest of contact with him, being out of radio range that meant they could only rely on dispatches. Even still, he'd want to be warned if the shoe was on the other foot and Lucas was the one in the Vector.

The commodore rose from his desk and quickly left his office. His footsteps echoed throughout the top floor hallway as he made his way to the opposite side of the building. He barreled into the communications room, finding Settler at work carrying out his previous orders.

"Settler, one more thing," said Lucas. "Get a message out to Jack Easterbrook at once."

*****

As soon as the meeting with the Javan officers was over, Andros was the first to approach Jack. "So, Commander, I take it you're probably eager to see your ships after all this time? And see what we've managed to do to repair them?"

Jack smiled and nodded. "Andros, you read my mind. I'd be delighted to see the progress on them. You've come with the highest esteem from the king and I can't wait to see your work."

Andros grinned. "I think you'll be pleased. We learned a lot about ship design just from the work with your own engineers during this time. I think His Majesty will be pleased to learn that I have several ideas for the future of the Sorellan navy."

"Very intrigued," said Heron, joining the conversation. "And anxious to see what you've come up with."

"Well, let's linger here no more then," said Andros. "Let's go see the ships!"

Jack and Heron followed after Andros with Abigail right behind them. Noticeably, Greg chose to stay behind. "I'm just going to catch up with the other officers for a moment," said Greg as he thumbed his finger back to the others.

Jack looked back to where he was pointing, not surprised to see a very expectant Lt. Noble watching the marine. "No problem, I understand," said Jack with a laugh.

It was just the four of them that emerged out of the barracks and walked the short distance down to the docks. It was obvious from their course that they were headed first for the Tiger, settled in at her berth near the end of the dock.

"We were able to fix all the minor deck damage to your ship," said Andros with a toothy smile while gesturing to the destroyer. "The toughest problem was trying to fix the hull. I think we have it patched up for the time being but it wasn't without some difficulty!"

"I'm relieved to hear you say that," said Jack.

Andros led them up the walkway to the destroyer and pointed out each spot where the repairs had taken place.

"Looks great," said Jack. "Your attention to detail is fantastic. It's like she was hardly damaged at all."

Andros beamed with pride. "It was a learning experience, that's for sure. But I'm rather proud of the job we were able to do with her."

Jack ran his fingers over the bow. "How long did it take you to fix her?"

"Not long once your engineers arrived and helped us mold the steel and then bolt and weld it to the hull," said Andros. "She's been ready to go for about two days now."

"Impressive, Andros! Very impressive," said Jack. "Let's see the other ships!"

Andros nodded and pointed toward the dry docks. "Those two are nearly done as well. Come, let's go over."

The small group made their way off the destroyer and crossed all the way from the end of the quay over to the other two warships. Being that they were both being worked on in the middle of the dry dock, they wouldn't be able to board them, so Andros stood nearby each of them and pointed out the work.

"First, the Destiny," said Andros proudly. "She only needed some minor cosmetic repairs but we put her in dry dock to give her a full examination."

Jack nodded. "And what did you think?"

The engineer started to laugh before waving his hand dismissively. "Nothing a worry now. All that damage has been fixed."

"Fantastic job," said Jack. "The Destiny seemed to have the least damage, but she's our most important ship. I can't let anything happen to her."

"This is a mighty fine warship, Jack," said Andros. "I've made some sketches of her blueprints as well as her weapons. I don't think we'll be able to recreate them any time soon, however, I think this will do wonders for our own naval technology moving forward."

"Are you going to tell him about the surprise?" asked Abigail to Andros. Her eyes sparkled with excitement, enough to make Jack feel a little confused.

"Ah, yes, the surprise!" said Andros as he clapped his hands together. "Come right over here."

The group walked a short distance away where a small amount of ordnance was stationed for loading onto the Destiny. Jack counted about twenty shells of the same caliber, and Andros walked up to the nearest one and began to tap against it.

"We were authorized to give you quite the surprise as an update to your ordnance for the Destiny, Jack," said Andros. "These are no ordinary explosive shells. These are more . . . incendiary in nature."

Jack raised an eyebrow. "Incendiary?"

Heron interrupted. "They're Sorellan fire canisters, Jack," he said proudly. "I gave the orders to him to give you the original shot, but Andros was able to make them into canisters so that they can be fired by your guns."

"So you mean these can be fired by our regular guns?" asked Jack. "And I imagine it's a similar range as the other shot?"

"Exactly, Jack. Adding these canisters with the Sorellan fire will give you quite an impressive weapon in your arsenal," said Andros.

"We figured any alliance with each other that had a technology exchange shouldn't only go one way," said Heron. "Since you were already familiar with the Sorellan fire from the war, I figured it was worth outfitting your ship with it."

"This is amazing," whispered Jack as his fingers brushed against the cold, steel canister.

"Just be careful when you use it," said Andros as he raised both hands. "It's extremely hard to extinguish!"

"Oh, he knows," said Heron. "He's seen it in action."

"This is quite the weapon to bestow on us, Heron," said Jack. "I thank you both greatly for your work."

"I'm proud to share the technology with an ally," said Heron with a grin.

"Come," said Andros. "Let's see the last ship!"

They continued walking until they came to the last ship, the Valiant. Jack's eyes roamed over the vessel, the one he was most familiar with and had commanded the longest.

"Finally, we come to the Valiant," said Andros. "She's in much the same situation as the Tiger. All the damage to her deck has been nearly repaired. However, there is one exception to her that we weren't able to fix." Andros pointed to the still ruined rear turret.

"I had wondered about that," said Jack. "No luck on the turret then?"

"It wasn't for a lack of trying," said Andros while shaking his head. "The problem is the gun barrels themselves, which have to be cast. Since we don't have the technology ourselves to do the casting, it would take much longer for something new to be made. It would be several more weeks in the future if you were willing to wait."

Jack quickly shook his head. "I don't think we can afford to wait that long. Time is always against us. At least we still have four other turrets to use."

"I don't like not being able to complete a job in time," said Andros. "But this one was just beyond our scope. I'm hoping you'll be able to forgive me for that lapse."

Jack clapped the engineer on his back. "Don't think anything of it. What you've done has been nothing short of incredible. Besides, one missing turret won't hamper us much. We need to look on the bright side."

"At least your ammunition might last you a little longer with less guns," said Andros.

Jack started to laugh. "I think you're right!"

"Before I forget, there was also the problem with the leak below deck on the Valiant," said Andros. "We were able to find the source of it and fix the issue. Nothing major but one of the coils from your conditioning units wasn't sealed properly. We were able to fix the issue and you shouldn't see that leak any longer."

"I'm sure Luke was relieved," said Jack. "He's been fretting about that leak for weeks."

"He was," said Abigail. "You should have seen his face once they fixed it."

"That should about do it, Jack," said Andros as he turned away from the Valiant. "All three ships will be ready for sailing the day after tomorrow. Then I can return these mighty vessels to your hands."

"I'm not sure I know how to thank you, or you, Heron," said Jack to both men. "You've done us an incredible service. Something that won't be forgotten any time soon."

"As long as you know you're always welcome in Sorella," said Heron. "If not for you, none of this would have been possible. I almost shudder to think what might have happened had you not arrived when you did."

"Everything happens for a reason," said Jack with a grin. "This was the kind of mutual relationship we had in mind when we went searching for an alliance."

"So what is next for you then, Jack? Where do you go from here?" asked Andros.

"Most likely Picardy," he answered. "And try our luck there."

"And your engineers and supply ships? What of those? Will they go back to Java?"

Jack started to nod. "I'm sure they'll be needed there soon enough. I'm rather amazed we got them in the first place with our own war going on, but their expertise will soon be needed back home."

"Good," said Andros. "I'd like their expertise on a few designs I've come up with before you leave. It'll help to have their opinions while they're still here."

"Of course," said Jack. "It's the least we can do."

The group started to move away from the dry dock area and make their way back to the barracks. By this point in the day, the sun was beginning to set, and Jack noticed that their shadows cast further away the longer they walked.

"I don't think we'll be heading back to your palace tonight, right?" asked Jack to Heron.

Heron shook his head. "I figured we'd stay here in the barracks. It's too late to attempt that road in darkness. I hope you don't mind?"

"Not at all," answered Jack. "I'm sure anything will be better than sleeping on the ground!"

Almost as soon as they entered the barracks, Jack could tell something was up. The first thing he noticed was Luke near the entrance, who appeared to be greatly relieved to see him.

"There you are," said Luke quickly. "We need you as soon as possible. Abigail, you should come as well."

"What's wrong?" asked Jack.

"There's been word from Quiller's Cove. You need to see this dispatch," said Luke.

Jack nodded and followed the man down the hallway. A spare room had been set up to contain the communications for the task force while the ships were being worked on. All the main equipment had been moved there during the repair work, and it served as the central headquarters while Jack had been away as well. On the desk, Jack could already see a fresh dispatch, which Luke soon picked up and handed to him.

ATTN: COMMANDER JACK EASTERBROOK

BE WARNED OF AN OCCITANIAN TASK FORCE IN THE NEARBY WATERS OF QUILLER'S COVE, BEARING A WESTERLY COURSE. DESTINATION UNKNOWN. TASK FORCE COMPRISED OF TWO BATTLESHIPS, FOUR CRUISERS, AND NUMEROUS SMALLER VESSELS. BE ON HIGH ALERT.

COMMODORE STANHOPE LUCAS

COMMANDER, QUILLER'S COVE

Jack read it one more time before passing it off to Abigail to let her scan it as well. Once she set it down, she crossed her arms in front of her chest.

"Well, we knew it was likely a matter of time, right?" she said. "With the war starting and with us having sunk one of their cruisers, they surely wouldn't have forgotten about us."

"That does beg the question though," said Jack. "Where are they going? Are they coming after us in particular or are they searching the area around Quiller's Cove?"

Luke raised an eyebrow. "I'm not sure I understand what you mean."

Jack gestured for them to follow him and the three of them plus Heron and Andros made their way back to the main meeting room where they had set up earlier in the day. In the room was the map of the Fourth Vector and he improvised it by drawing where Quiller's Cove stood approximately.

"Who are the Occitanians after? Us or Quiller's Cove?" he asked finally once he stood in front of the map.

"Probably us being as we sunk their cruiser," said Luke.

"Right, but where are we at exactly?" said Jack. "As far as the Occitanians know, we might still be at Quiller's Cove. Would they know that we're in the Vector?"

"Probably not. Unless they've done reconnaissance around the base and determined our ships aren't there," said Abigail.

"Which would be hard for them to get that close to the base without being detected," said Jack. "For all we know, they may be hunting us at Quiller's Cove without knowing that we left there."

"They'll probably attack the base hoping to bag us," said Luke.

"Unless they have somehow found out we're not there," said Jack.

"Quiller's Cove is going to be in immediate danger for the short term then," said Abigail. "At least until they figure out that we're not there. Then, they may be in more danger. There won't be any forces around that can withstand a pair of battleships. Even the Destiny couldn't take on a battleship."

"My question is what will they do once they figure out we're out here. Will they enter the Vector to come after us?" asked Jack. "If word has gotten out that we're here, there's little to stop them from following in our wake."

"How would they find out though?" asked Heron, who had been quietly listening behind the Javans. "No one from Sorella has any contact with any of the eastern nations."

"Radio interception," said Luke. "It's rare but I've seen it happen before. If they intercept any of our transmissions going back to Quiller's Cove or coming back to us from the base, they could figure out where we're at."

"Possibly," said Jack. "That's a long shot though."

"True, but it is a possibility that we should be on guard against."

"So what do we do if they come looking for us?" asked Abigail. "We're just two cruisers and a destroyer against a force of battleships and double the amount of cruisers. What do we do if they catch up to us?"

"We won't have the advantage of knowing the area for very long against a force like that, especially if they catch up to us," said Jack. "But we'll have to avoid the main force as much as possible. Do what we can to split up that task force. We can't take it head-on, so we need to find ways of finding local superiority.

"Can we help you at all with that, Jack?" asked Heron. "Surely there's a way our forces can work together against this threat?"

Jack pursed his lips. "That will be tough. They have modern warships and even the ones you took from Daimanos' old fleet wouldn't stand up for very long against them. Maybe if we used you as bait to draw them in but that would still put your ships at risk. One good shot from them would send yours to the bottom quickly."

"We do have the Sorellan fire though," said Andros. "Perhaps all we need to do is get close enough and we can surprise them with that?"

"Would Sorellan fire make much of a difference against steel warships?" asked Luke. "I would think that it wouldn't give us much of an advantage as if we're up against steel."

Heron shook his head. "No, it wouldn't. But the decks of your ships are wooden, and it can cause enough damage to that. The biggest effect would be against the men that were unlucky enough to take a direct hit of the fire. The intense heat, and how hard it would be to extinguish it, would cause more harm amongst their men than any damage to the actual ship. You'd roast them alive surrounded by all that steel."

"We'll need to keep that in our back pocket then," said Jack. "We'll need every advantage that we can lay our hands on if they come looking for us."

"What if they attack and take Quiller's Cove only?" asked Abigail. "They'll cut our line of supply. No offense to Heron, but we can't exactly rely on Sorella for our food right now should Quiller's Cove get taken. So what would we do then?''

Jack took a deep breath. "I'm not sure. I doubt Lishkerra could supply all that we need with how little their population is either."

"Maybe we should sail back to Quiller's Cove," offered Luke. "If we unite our forces with those defending the base, we'd be in a better position to fend off the attack."

Jack shook his head. "What's left at the base isn't much of a force at all. Even combined with our force, we'd be in a poor position to take on battleships."

"But if we stay divided, they could mop us up separately if they so choose," said Luke. "We would have a better chance together."

"That's making the assumption that they're going to Quiller's Cove though," said Abigail. "If they come looking for us out here, it won't do us any good. We'd need the extra forces."

The discussion was interrupted at that point by a knock against the door. Jack turned to see the sight of his deputy, Twitch, holding another dispatch in hand. His face was ridden with anxiety.

"A new dispatch for you, Jack. Just arrived," said Twitch.

"Who's it from?" asked Jack.

Twitch bit his lip. "Admiral Bancroft." He then handed over the note to Jack.

ATTN: COMMANDER JACK EASTERBROOK

DUE TO THE OCCITANIAN THREAT, YOU ARE REQUESTED TO DISPATCH THE CRUISER VALIANT TO QUILLER'S COVE IMMEDIATELY. YOUR MISSION IS TO CONTINUE WITH THE CRUISER DESTINY AND THE DESTROYER TIGER ONLY. YOU WILL RECEIVE REINFORCEMENTS ONCE THE SITUATION STABILIZES.

STAY SAFE, JACK. TALK SOON.

ADMIRAL PERCIVAL BANCROFT

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, IMPERIAL JAVAN NAVY

Jack must have reread the note several times, yet the message became no easier to swallow.

"Jack? What's wrong?" asked Abigail.

"I think our decision has already been made for us," whispered Jack. "Luke, you and the Valiant are going back to Quiller's Cove."

"What?" asked Luke before reaching out for the message, which Jack soon deposited into his hand. He read it quickly before his mouth fell open in surprise. "Back to base? But what about our mission?"

"They must need you back there more than we do," said Jack. "The threat to the base must be great enough that they need all available forces."

"Why not the rest of us?" asked Abigail. "How much help can one cruiser be against the Occitanian task force?"

Jack shrugged. "I don't know. I don't know why Bancroft would do this. I'm struggling to find a reason but I'm coming up blank."

"Surely having us divided even further won't be very good," said Luke. "We could get destroyed piecemeal if we aren't careful."

"You'll have to take extra precaution on the way back," said Jack. "You might want to retrace our steps. Go south to Lishkerra instead of taking a straight shot. You may be able to avoid them that way, or at least have a better chance at it."

Luke started to nod. His head then fell as his gaze concentrated on the floor. Jack put his hand on the man's shoulder. "What's wrong, Luke?"

The man finally looked up. "It just doesn't make a lot of sense to me to go back now. This is our mission right now. Here in the Vector. Now I have to go back to Quiller's Cove? It's not right."

Jack forced a smile. "I thought you might secretly be happy about this. There's bound to be action with the Occitanians there, and the Luke that I know would want to be in the thick of it."

Luke pursed his lips. "Sure, that would be great, but I feel like this mission has a higher calling. We're building new alliances and getting stronger. We're making a difference out here. Look at all we've managed to do just here in Sorella. Don't get me wrong, if trouble comes looking for me, I'll be ready to answer. I just feel like it's the wrong move to go backwards right now."

Jack nodded. "I know how you feel. The thought of you going back makes me feel like I'm losing my right hand. Not having the Valiant as part of my command is a painful thought. You and I have been sailing together longer than anyone."

"It has been a long time," said Luke fondly. "I just hope it's not the last time. Whatever this business is with the Occitanians, let's just lick them so we can get back to Task Force 21. Then we can get back to our task."

Jack grinned. "That sounds like a damn good idea. And make sure to get plenty of shots in for us. Try to sink a battleship for us as well, okay?"

Luke chuckled. "You know what would be a real help is some of that Sorellan fire. That would make quite the distraction as a novelty weapon." He then turned to Heron. "Do you think we could get some of those canisters loaded onto the Valiant as well before we have to leave?"

Heron nodded eagerly. "Of course, Luke! Take all that you need. We'll make preparations to start loading up the Valiant when she comes out of dry dock." He then turned to Andros to issue the order.

"We'll take care of it at once," said Andros in confirmation.

Luke grinned. "Thank you both. You have no idea how much I appreciate it." His eyes then turned to look at Jack once more.

"We have a few days before you have to leave. We'll have plenty of time to discuss this in more detail," said Jack. "For now, let's just get a dispatch in that we intend to comply with the message and work on getting the Valiant out of dry dock so she can sail again."

Luke nodded somberly. "That sounds good, Jack."

Before anyone else could speak, Heron spoke up again. "I'm not sure about the rest of you, but I could use a bit of sleep. It's now well past dark, and I'm getting exhausted."

"It has been a long day," said Jack. "If you could provide us with sleeping quarters, I'd like to turn in as well."

"I'll show them where to go, Your Majesty," said Andros. "If you would like to retire now, I'll get Jack to his room."

"That sounds marvelous," answered Heron. "Goodnight all!"

After saying goodnight to the king, as well as to Luke and Abigail, Jack followed Andros up to the third floor of the barracks where the rest of the officers had their quarters. He was shown to a small room just at the end of the hall, with enough room for just a simple bed and desk.

"I hope this is appropriate for you, Jack," said Andros as soon as he opened the door. "You'll have to excuse the lack of decor. This is just a simple seaman's quarters."

"It'll do great, Andros, thank you," said Jack. "Having a real bed again is the best treat of the day."

"Good, I'm glad. Goodnight, Jack. Sleep well," said Andros as he shut the door behind him.

Jack didn't waste any time and soon crawled between the covers after turning out the light. He sighed heavily as soon as he was settled on the bed. It was a tall order to be expected to give up the Valiant and its crew. He'd been sailing with them for so long that he almost didn't know what to do without them. There was something about going on with the mission without Luke and his officers that made him uneasy, and he knew their loss would be sorely felt in the coming weeks.

Jack wanted to curse at Bancroft and the Admiralty for making him lose one of his most able commanders but there wasn't anything he could do. It was war, and sometimes in war, you have to carry out orders that you didn't quite understand.

He just wished this order wouldn't have taken his right hand from his side.