The sun's glint caressed Arieshell's face as her figure swept across her eyes, entitling them to flutter. Hello Sun! Arieshell glimpsed at the ornate window, meeting the sun escaping from the cloud's hold.

Arieshell stretches her arms wide, her muscles tensing as she lifts the sheets in a broad motion that sends the fabric soaring. The sheets billow and flow, catching an unseen breeze as they unfurl in midair, resembling a cascading wave in a gust.

As she neared the wardrobe, a faint scent of lavender and cedar lingered in the air. The soft echo of her footsteps broke the silence, each step a rhythmic whisper against the carpet as she approached her safari uniform, neatly folded and ready for her after Jeeves's late-night efforts.

The crisp cotton of her uniform felt cool against her skin as she swerved toward the heavy oak door. Its polished surface gleamed under the dim light. A faint, almost inaudible click echoed as the handle turned, revealing Gus framed in the doorway, his eyes meeting hers.

"You're awake! Good," he said. "Jacques went to assemble and prepare Sparrow for our departure. He sent me to notify you."

Her words caught in her throat, choked by the memory of her encounter with Jacques the night before. Arieshell's heart raced like a wild drum, each beat echoing the intensity of that lingering moment. She could still feel the warmth of his breath against her neck, a whisper of heat that sent shivers cascading down her spine.

The air hung thick with tension, as if the very room held its breath alongside her, trapped in the memory of their closeness. His powerful hands, warm and steady, wrapped securely around her waist, pulling her in closer to his chest; she felt the reassuring beat of his heart against her. Jacques's constant, strong pulse against her ear. His heartbeat was a comforting presence amid the chaos of the outside world; she could almost smell his skin.

The fine linen of his shirt caressed her skin, and the air thrummed with the musky, almost imperceptible scent of his cologne, a private fragrance that banished all other sensations.

"Arieshell, are you feeling well?" Gus's voice sliced through her reverie like a blade, pulling her back to the present.

A rush of warmth painted her cheeks, a blush in response to her momentary distraction. Noticing his nervously bobbing Adam's apple as he awaited her answer, she felt a flutter of excitement at the thought of the adventure beyond the door.

Arieshell nodded, weaving her hand above her face. "Forgive me. When you mentioned Jacques, it brought me back..."

"Did you two do something?"

His statement froze her in place as her cheeks flamed with embarrassment. "W-what?"

Gus's laughter echoed through the hallway, igniting a smile on Arieshell's lips as he playfully led her down the staircase. Arieshell watched intently as Jeeves packed his bag with an assemblage of tools, gleaming weapons, and sturdy garments sourced from the cutler. Each item he selected seemed to tell a story of its own, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the adventure that lay ahead.

"Do you have everything?" Gus asked, directing his attention toward Jeeves, who popped up from the counter.

"Yes, let me finish and I'll be with you," he stated.

Gus proceeded with a nod while tapping Arieshell's back, escorting her out of the shop. Arieshell and Gus shared a brief, silent exchange with Jeeves before he shut off his lights, closed up shop, and they understood he wouldn't return.

Along the bustling roads of the small town, the three of them wandered, glancing at shops now and then, still maintaining their path near the docks. The struggling temptation of the wonderful fragrances that plagued Arieshell's nose made it almost irresistible to neglect.

Gus's persistent little nudges against her back spurred her onward, pushing back the temptation to pause and grabbing a small sweet treat for the long journey ahead.

"So," Gus began, his voice lingering quizzically. "What did happen last night? Jacques rushed into our room and... He looked flustered. Almost like you were when I mentioned him earlier."

Arieshell felt the heat run through her veins straight to her cheeks. Glancing at Gus, who had a mischievous smirk on the corner of his lips, appeared unfazed by the interaction.

She swiftly gathered thoughts before speaking, "We... hugged."

Gus lets out a hearty chuckle, the sound echoing with delight, while Jeeves hangs back, observing quietly with an enigmatic smile.

"Are you sure you two were only hugging?"

Arieshell chewed on her lip. In defeat, she sighed. "I realized myself embracing him."

"Ah! I discern something brewing between you two."

Another surge of warmth blossomed on her face as their footsteps grazed the winding trail of coarse, golden sand, binding itself with wooden planks, guiding them near Sparrow. Along the path, Arieshell noticed tufts of vibrant seagrass swaying gently in the briny wind, glinting under the dusk sunlight like specks of mica; each step sent soft clouds of warmth rising from the surface.

Beyond the deck, Arieshell's gaze landed on Jacques, engrossed in an intense conversation with Belle. She stood there, arms crossed tightly, her fingers clutching William's fur jacket like a lifeline. Her lower lip quivered slightly, and her head hung low, reminiscent of a forlorn fish puppy waiting for a comforting touch. The tension in the air was palpable, drawing Arieshell closer, her curiosity piqued by the emotions swirling between them.

Her feet greeted Sparrow's floorboards as Jacques's physique strengthened, catching Arieshell's gaze. Belle darted into the captain's quarters.

"What was that about?" Gus asked. His voice streamed with concern.

Jacques sighed deeply, a sound that seemed to clash with the sultry air, enveloping Arieshell and Gus in a way that felt both stifling and strangely warm, a paradox of comfort and discomfort enveloping them in its discord.

His arms flew above his head in defeat. "She refuses to take off that jacket! I'm apprehensive she will overheat wearing it."

A little hum escaped Gus's lips.

"Eh! Let the poor girl be!" Jeeves spoke. "That jacket will play a crucial role in keeping her from spiraling out of control. William departed without it for a reason."

Arieshell remained silent, doubtful if there was anything left she could contribute to the conversation, despite Jacques's shadowed plea never leaving his lips. Belle felt protected wearing that piece of cloth while Jacques had his mind set on her, removing it from her body.

Curiosity rippled through her like the distant cries of the waves calling out to her every time her body was near the sea's shoreline. While she yearned to dip her feet and spray her body outward, the risk of the senators locating her would put their adventure in peril.

As much as she could return to the sea, Arieshell witnessed enough to leave everything behind. Everyone behind.

No

She didn't wish to leave everyone behind.

Someone behind.

Arieshell could bear leaving Jacques behind.

The sails hung high in the air as the anchor mewed into the depths of the water, creating bubbles in its wake. Hues of aqua and white blend harmoniously, creating a picturesque scene, as if the waves are joyfully welcoming their mother back home.

A warm breeze struck her cheeks, only her eyes, quickly shutting, remembering Jacques's honorable advice to not directly gaze at the horizon. A small but gentle tap pressed against Arieshell's back, transmitting flutters to her stomach.

She moved to meet Jacques's irresistible gaze, his goofy smirk rendering her body cradled in his arms.

"Jeeves is setting up for a lesson."

"On what?" She asked, her voice laced with a sultry tone.

"Self-defense. It's a critical consideration. It is important to acknowledge that the structural frameworks in various African contexts may differ significantly from those in England and France combined. We need to take the right steps to deal with these differences effectively."

She nodded.

Humans illustrated many traits Arieshell didn't understand or realize. She began wondering if her father's concerns were valid, but her heart steered her in the opposite direction.

"Alright, everyone!" Jeeves's voice boomed as he clapped his hands together. Let the session begin!"

As Arieshell, Gus, and Jeeves stepped aboard Sparrow, the scent of salt and adventure filled the air. The boat gently rocked beneath their feet, a familiar rhythm that promised a day of excitement ahead.

Jacques stood at the helm, his silhouette framed by the bright sky, a picture of focus and determination. "Ready for training, everyone?" he called out, his voice carrying over the gentle lapping of the waves against the hull.

Arieshell felt her heart flutter at the sight of him, the sun casting a warm glow on his features. The momentary nervousness she'd felt earlier transformed into a rush of exhilaration. Today, they'd put their skills to the test, and with Jacques and Jeeves as their guide, they felt a surge of confidence.

"Absolutely!" Gus replied, a spark of enthusiasm lighting up his face as he grabbed a set of rope and a harness from the deck.

Arieshell joined him, determination sparking in her core. She had trained many times before, but the anticipation of doing so under Jacques's watchful eye made this session feel different. Not to mention, she never trained on land.

"Let's start with the basics," Jacques instructed, his tone steady yet encouraging. "Rope handling is vital for what lies ahead, especially navigating through unpredictable waters."

The trio formed a loose circle around Jacques as he shared the proper techniques: how to secure knots, the importance of leverage, and how to read the wind's patterns. Arieshell soaked in every word, her hands itching to replicate the skills he was teaching. There was something invigorating about the way he moved—confident and precise.

"Alright, now you try," he said, tossing the rope playfully toward Arieshell.

She caught it, her fingers fumbling slightly as she recalled the knot Jacques had just shown her. Gus and Jeeves watched intently, their expressions a mix of amusement and support. Arieshell concentrated, her brow knit in determination.

The rope slipped through her fingers as she attempted the knot, and for a moment, doubt crept in. But she recalled Jacques's steady gaze as he encouraged her, and she steadied herself. With a deep breath, she tied the knot with more assertiveness.

"There! How's that?" she asked, looking up with a hopeful smile.

Jacques nodded, a pleased grin spreading across his face. "Good job! Now, make sure to double-check your work. Safety is paramount."

As the training session continued, they moved to practicing teamwork and communication aboard the ship. Jacques emphasized the key role of trust on the water, instructing them to work seamlessly together as they hoisted the sails and adjusted the rigging. Arieshell felt invigorated as she worked side by side with Gus and Jeeves, the adrenaline and laughter flowing as they fumbled yet learned all at once.

Jacques's guidance was crucial, encouraging them when they succeeded and turning their mistakes into teaching moments.

"Remember, a ship is only as strong as its crew," Jacques reminded them, his voice warm and inspiring. "And every adventure is an opportunity to grow."

As Belle emerged from Jacques's chambers, a warm smile lit up her face. She settled herself effortlessly onto a nearby barrel, her presence instantly drawing the attention of those around her.

"I thought we were training for self-defense?"

"Yes," Jacques said. "Jeeves and I agreed we should discuss how to train for a surprise sea attack, preparing Sparrow, and knowing the right safety moves."

Arieshell observed Belle's nod.

Jeeves clicked his tongue. "Today, I want to teach you both some basic self-defense techniques," Jeeves announced, his tone serious. "You never know what dangers you might encounter on your journey."

Arieshell exchanged an excited yet apprehensive glance with Gus. They nodded, ready to learn.

"First things first," Jeeves instructed, taking a defensive stance. "Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands up to guard your face," He described, confidently. Arieshell followed, grounding herself, while Gus brought a playful energy.

"If someone grabs your arm," Jeeves said, gently grabbing Arieshell's wrist, "use your weight to twist and pivot away." He exemplified. She broke free, using her weight as the tension melted away.

"Your turn, Gus," Jeeves called. Grinning, Gus attempted the move, but Jeeves corrected his footwork. Arieshell chuckled, and they shared a light moment.

"Focus now! Self-defense involves being aware of your surroundings," Jeeves continued, helping them visualize potential threats and how to remain calm. As they practiced, camaraderie blossomed, laughter punctuating their training.

"Use your environment to defend yourself," Jeeves suggested, pointing to a chair. Arieshell picked it up, determination on her face.

Gus jokes, "Now that's a way to enter!"

After several drills, they paused, breathless, as the sun set. "You both did wonderfully," Jeeves said, his pride known. "Confidence and awareness are key."

"When do we get to test our skills for real?" Gus jokes.

"Let's not rush into danger," replied Arieshell, sharing in the laughter.

Jacques joined their laughter, but his eyes kept returning to Belle, who observed them with intense focus.

As Arieshell and Gus approached the deck of Sparrow, laughter and chatter filled the air, mingling with the salty breeze. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow across the ship. Arieshell's heart raced with the promise of adventure, but as they neared Jacques, she sensed an unseen wave of tension rolling off of him.

Jacques stood at the railing, his gaze deeply fixed on the horizon, the sun's dying light playing across his features. Belle was nearby, sitting on a crate and absentmindedly tying and untying a frayed piece of rope. The moment he caught sight of her, he moved closer, a hint of urgency in his demeanor.

"Belle," he began, his voice low and inviting, "may I see your jacket for a moment?"

Belle tilted her head, casting a curious glance at him. "My jacket? Why?"

He smiled subtly, trying to hide the weight resting on his shoulders. "I want to check something; it might be important for our preparations."

With a hesitant sigh, Belle relented and shrugged off the oversized jacket that draped around her more petite frame. It slipped down her arms, pooling at her elbows, and Jacques gently took it from her, a hint of that familiar warmth returning to his expression.

However, as he folded it, the subtle, lingering scent of Williams' cologne wafted up into the air, hitting Belle with unexpected force. It was a fragrance that tugged at her heartstrings, a bittersweet reminder of laughter shared, whispers in the dark, and a love that was still tangled in the web of their past.

A wave of emotion surged like tumultuous seas, and Belle's breath caught in her throat as memories flooded back. She could almost see him, feel the warmth of his arms as he held her close, hear the soft timbre of his voice calling her name amidst the chaos of their lives.

"Belle?" Jacques' voice broke through her reverie, concern lacing his tone.

She fought back tears, whispering, "I can't..." Her voice trembled, and she stumbled back, shaking her head as the jacket slipped from Jacques's fingers, its scent overwhelming her with sadness and longing. She fought against the tide of emotions rising within her, but the perfume acted like a key, unlocking doors she thought were long shut.

Jacques reached out, his hand brushing against her shoulder. He said gently, "It's okay," reassuring her, but Belle had been engulfed in a storm of memories, her heart breaking all over again for what felt lost.

"G-give back! I-I need it!" she whispered, her eyes glistening with tears that threatened to spill over.

In a moment of understanding, Jacques stepped closer, allowing the distance between them to dissolve. He lowered his arm without dropping it over her shoulders once again. "I'm sorry. I should've done that."

He held her gaze, a steadfast calm anchoring them both amidst the emotional whirlwind. Belle drew a shaky breath, desperately grounding herself in the present amidst the overwhelming wave of feeling. The connection she shared with Jacques was undeniable, yet Williams' scent still haunted her.

"I just..." she started, but words failed her as the depth of her feelings threatened to consume her completely.

Jacques, sensing her turmoil, hugged her. "Take your time. Just remember that you're not alone."