Lorne handed her the saber.
"You can hang it on your cabin wall or use it to beat me with."
Masha finally smiled.
With Lorne supporting her, she walked toward the dock. The Marines escorted them the whole way, everyone observing the highest formalities.
When they boarded the warship, the Marines on deck saluted again.
"Welcome aboard, Major Masha!"
Masha stood on deck, looking at the broad hull, the neatly arranged cannons, and the busy Marines, then at Lorne beside her in his rear admiral's coat.
Her eyes reddened again, but she fought back her tears.
"Lorne, you really became a rear admiral."
Lorne helped her toward the officers' cabins, his tone light.
"That's not enough. Once I've beaten all those monsters in the New World, I'll be an admiral."
Masha immediately glared at him.
"If you dare do anything reckless, I'll twist your ears off."
Lorne touched his beast ears, looking utterly helpless.
"Mom, let me keep a little dignity."
The Marines around them kept their eyes straight ahead.
Ethan had arranged the most spacious officers' cabin. The bedding had been replaced with new sets, hot tea and a medical kit sat by the window, and the kitchen had prepared meals suitable for a patient.
Looking at these arrangements, Masha felt both an ache and warmth in her heart.
She turned to Ethan and said earnestly, "Thank you all for your hard work. This boy has a bad temper. Sorry for the trouble, but please be patient with him."
Ethan immediately answered loudly, "Major Masha, Rear Admiral Lorne is the pride of us all. It is an honor to serve under him in battle!"
Lorne raised an eyebrow.
"You're quite the sweet-talker today. Extra training when we get back."
Ethan's expression stiffened, and the Scarred Veteran finally failed to