Bellemere had never dreamed that a mere Marine sergeant like her would cross paths with Ye Chen—much less find him gravely wounded and unable to resist.
She took a deep drag on her cigarette and frowned. Ye Chen was so badly hurt that he had already lost consciousness. Right now, she could have knocked him down with one finger.
After a moment's thought, Bellemere sighed. "Even if you're a vicious pirate, I can't leave you to die. Sorry, but I'll have to tie you up."
Bellemere found a rope and bound Ye Chen's hands and feet. As far as she could tell, even if he woke up, he would not have the strength to break free.
With that done, Ye Chen still lay there like a corpse. Bellemere hurried to row on. A pirate's life was still a life, and she was too kindhearted to leave him behind. Another half day passed before she finally reached Cocoyasi Village.
Bellemere carried Ye Chen ashore. The villagers greeted her with smiles, but when they saw the person on her back, they asked anxiously, "Who's that?"
"A pirate. But don't worry, he won't threaten anyone. He's unconscious."
Bellemere did not tell them who he really was. She knew the villagers would be terrified if they learned he was Ye Chen.
"He looks badly hurt. Are you going to save him?" someone asked.
"Yes. Is Dr. Nako here?" Bellemere asked anxiously.
"He is. Don't worry, I'll go get him."
Bellemere was well liked in the village, and someone immediately ran to fetch the doctor. She took Ye Chen home in the meantime.
The moment she stepped inside, two little girls rushed toward her.
"Bellemere!" Ten-year-old Nami was growing into a graceful young girl. Her bright eyes shone like amber, lovely and clear, with a