Son (Part One)

At dusk, the sunset was especially beautiful. Brilliant colors spread across the far side of the sea, filling half the sky. It was as though a tray of vivid paints had been spilled into the water, the colors mingling into one dazzling wash.

A dozen or so warships packed with refugees cut through the waves. Against the beautiful backdrop of sea and sunset, they left the waters of the Royal Capital behind and sailed ever farther away.

"Come on, everyone, get to work! In a few days, we'll be home!"

"Hahaha..."

The naval sailors aboard the warships were all grinning.

The journey home was hard, but people with something to look forward to were the happiest. Longing filled their hearts so completely that there was no room for distracting thoughts. They barely noticed the wind and sun. The only thing that tormented them was their desire to get home sooner.

On the lead warship, Romon stood on the deck in a thin robe. He looked lightly dressed, yet remained perfectly at ease, showing no sign that the biting sea wind bothered him.

"My lord, the sea wind is getting strong. You should go inside and rest." Worried that Romon might fall ill if he stayed out too long, an officer in charge of shipboard affairs came over to advise him.

Romon saw the genuine concern on the officer's face, but he shook his head. "It's a little stuffy in the cabin. I'll stay here a while, get some air, and then go back."

His tone was gentle, but his mind was not easily changed.

Seeing that Romon was determined to stay, the officer muttered a few more words, then returned to his post.

Just as the officer turned away, another figure swept up to Romon like a little whirlwind and