Early the next morning, someone knocked on the door to Veylin's study.
Caroline walked in.
She wore a neatly tailored Sailing Uniform, her silver hair immaculately arranged.
But faint bluish shadows beneath her eyes marred that perfection.
She seemed full of energy, though a little... unnaturally so.
"Veylin, this is the latest immigrant transport plan."
She spread a rolled-up plan across the long table with a sweeping motion.
The parchment was covered in intricate routes and tables drawn in several colors of ink.
The name, cargo capacity, crew allocation, and departure time of every ship belonging to the Golden Sail Merchant Guild were clearly marked.
There were even estimates of the freshwater reserves at every supply point along the Windcutter Island route.
"The fleet is being notified. We expect to finish preparations beyond the required level in three days, and then we can set sail."
She spoke quickly, moving her finger across the map as she explained her arrangements.
"I've also assigned the Siren's Song to the escort force. Its heavy ballista batteries can handle any emergency."
"I heard you promised to give my flagship to Sea Wolf?"
Caroline looked up at Veylin.
Veylin was about to speak, but she looked away.
"I agree. After all, they're all guild assets."
Veylin's gaze settled on Caroline.
The more agreeable she acted, the more it seemed she was trying to prove something. This was nothing like her usual manner.
Even the most oblivious person could have seen that something was off.
So she did see that letter...
It seems the new partner has her worried about her shares being diluted.
Veylin silently confirmed his conclusion.
"Caroline."
Veylin interrupted her.
He picked up the plan, carefully rolled it up, and set it aside.
"About the letter I wrote to Dawn Territory." Veylin looked