Arrival in the Kingdom

Edmund's explanation answered Victor's question. The Kingdom Navy's treatment of the war slaves combined rewards with strict discipline: they could gain their freedom after a few years of service and even join the navy, while a dedicated Marine Corps unit guarded them. Under normal circumstances, they were unlikely to cause trouble.

Once the rowers had washed up, they began boarding under their guards' direction. Victor knew the fleet would soon resume its voyage.

Sure enough, Edmund soon called everyone aboard. After a head count, the fleet followed the harbor pilots out of port.

Victor said goodbye to Edmund and returned to his cabin to rest.

When he got back, he found Brando reading by the light of a whale-oil lamp. That struck Victor as odd. Brando had rarely studied of his own accord during the voyage, and since they so seldom traveled, Victor had no intention of keeping him shut in all day.

"What's this, Brando? Studying so hard today?" Victor asked.

Brando looked up, delighted. "Godfather, you're back!"

"Yes. The fleet's heading out to sea again."

Brando's spirits suddenly sank. More puzzled than ever, Victor asked, "Is something bothering you, Brando?

"You can tell me. I'm your godfather—I think I can help you!"

"Well, Godfather, I feel sorry for those war slaves who row the ships. They live down in the bottom of the ship every day. It must be awful. They were filthy and smelled terrible, so they must get sick easily!

"Didn't you teach me that keeping clean helps people stay healthy?"

Victor nodded. He had taught Brando that. "That's right. Good hygiene reduces your chances of catching disease-causing bacteria and viruses. It helps keep you healthy."

"Then living like that makes them more likely to get sick or hurt, and they might die!"

Victor nodded again.