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The docks were a hive of activity. Amelie gazed around while inhaling the briny scent of the water. Hundreds of seamen were hard at work, hauling cargo down the gangways. Others climbed their ships’ elaborate rigging, trimming sails with deft, expert speed. They shouted to each other in an array of languages and dialects, creating a pleasant cacophony. The seagulls floated above it all, diving suddenly at any hint of food scraps.

“I can see why my father chose this vocation,” said Amelie. “I grew up hearing about life on a ship, and it’s wonderful to see what all the fuss is about.”

“I hope it meets your expectations,” he replied, leading her up the boardwalk at a leisurely pace. “And that you are not prone to seasickness.”

Eventually, they stopped in front of a sleek, elegant wooden vessel. Triangular sails whipped in the breeze, a navy and gold flag atop the tallest mast. Cannons protruded through gun ports in the hull.

The crew was small in number, to maximize the efficiency of the vessel, she supposed. Seamen unloaded a handful of crates, glancing at Davron and Amelie as they passed.

A dark-haired man in a pristine blue and red uniform strode over to the couple. He saluted, a silver ring flashing from his thumb. His eyes swept Davron’s massive frame.

“Ah, Prince Nikolaou. My Lady,” he said, addressing Amelie. “My name is Captain Lukov, and I am honored to meet you. Many happy returns for your recent nuptials. Your luggage arrived this morning from your inn, and the crew have transferred it to your quarters below deck. We are ready to board and set sail.”

Davron nodded. “Thank you, Captain Lukov.”

The captain stood at attention while Davron and Amelie boarded via the gangway.

On the vessel’s deck, Amelie held her husband’s arm tightly, getting used to the gentle back-and-forth sway. The crew adjusted the sails while a pair of men hauled the anchor from the water by its thick chain.

“I feel as though I’ve had several glasses of wine,” said Amelie as they made their way along the deck. “Will this dizziness subside?”

“It depends on your constitution,” replied Davron. “If you feel unwell, I will do all I can to ease your suffering.”

Captain Lukov took his position at the helm. The ship began to move away from the dock, sending a thrill of excitement through Amelie’s body. She leaned against the ornate railing and gazed at the open sea, the crystal-blue expanse seeming infinite.

So entranced she was by the sparkling beauty of what lay ahead, it took some time to realize Davron was quietly observing her. She caught his eye and they smiled. He hugged her from behind, placing his hands on either side of hers on the railing, encasing her body with his.

“When I was alone, haunting Castle Grange like a specter, rarely did I allow myself to dream,” he murmured into her ear, the warmth of his breath making her shiver with delight. “But during those rare moments, I dreamed of you. For my heart has been yours forever—before we met in the flesh, before we existed on this plane—and will be yours evermore. I love you endlessly, Amelie.”

He pressed his lips to her temple. She raised her hand and stroked his cheek, hardly believing her incredible good fortune. Before she met Davron, she thought her life might contain either love or adventure, if she was very lucky.

Now, she knew the truth. She would have a lifetime of both.