Chapter 7 – Blades and Oaths
Salt wind slapped Eden's face as she stood at the bow of the Storm Chaser. Behind her, the Sea Raiders whispered like sharks circling prey.
Captain Seris, eyes sharp and amused, paced in front of her.
"You've got guts, girl," he said. "But guts don't win wars. You want my fleet? Prove your steel."
Without hesitation, Eden tossed her cloak aside and drew two blades.
The crew roared with approval.
Seris smirked. "First blood. Win, and I'll listen."
They circled each other on the slippery deck. Lightning cracked in the distance, rain drizzling over steel.
Then Seris lunged.
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Eden twisted, blade clashing with his. Sparks flew. He moved like a wave—unpredictable, brutal. She countered like wind—fluid, sharp.
Steel met steel again and again.
Then Eden feinted. Dropped low. Spun.
A thin cut sliced Seris's shoulder.
He froze.
The crowd went silent.
Blood trickled down his arm.
"You fight like a storm," Seris said, laughing. "Fine. You've earned my ear."
Eden sheathed her swords. "You'll give more than your ear. You'll give your fleet."
He raised an eyebrow. "And why would I do that?"
"Because when I win this war, you'll sail in royal waters. No longer pirates… but lords."
Seris looked at her—truly looked. Then he bowed.
"Captain Seris of the Sea Raiders pledges to Commander Jin."
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Later that night,