Abner and Lydia had slipped in just as the hooded man undid the ritual binding Tran. Neither made a sound. They both wanted to see what he was up to.
Besides, Vice Admiral Deep Sea's disguise was so crude that Abner recognized him at once, without even examining his aura.
Maybe he did it on purpose... so Tran's elders, or Lydia's parents and brother, could more easily find out who helped Tran?
Looks like Vice Admiral Deep Sea has plans of his own...
As Abner pondered this, he heard Tran cry out in mingled joy and relief, "Lydia! Thank goodness you're all right!"
He rushed forward and threw himself into Lydia's arms. "I thought I'd never see you again..." he said, his voice catching.
Lydia stroked his head and said gently, "Don't be afraid. I'm here now."
Listening to them, Abner glanced back and forth between the two, puzzled. The roles they were "Acting" seemed wrong somehow... Weren't they reversed?
Tran seemed to sense Abner's gaze and finally realized someone else was there. He scratched his head awkwardly. After Lydia briefly told him what had happened to her, he said earnestly, "Mr. Brain, thank you so much for saving Lydia and coming to rescue me..."
If you're really grateful, you could start by lifting your face off Lydia's chest. Shoving your romance in my face isn't much of a thank-you. Abner waved a hand and changed the subject.
"This isn't the time to talk. Go free the rest of the crew aboard the Black Throne. Once I've brought Gwen back from the military flagship, we'll set sail while the pirates aren't looking.
"Lydia and I already dealt with the guards on the Black Throne before coming here. Still, be careful when you free the others. Don't make too much noise."