Chapter 99: Unexpected Bond
KNOCK!!
Hearing the sound, Ash calmly closed the thick notebook in his lap and placed it back into his space ring. With a small breath, he stood up and made his way to the door, opening it without much thought.
"Lunch is ready," came the short notice from one of the sailors—a man in a sleeveless vest with a thick beard and tanned skin from working under the sun all day.
He didn’t wait for a reply and simply turned around, walking off with practiced steps.
Ash gave a silent nod in return, then stepped outside into the salty sea air.
After walking for a bit across the wooden deck, passing sailors busy with their own tasks, he reached the ship’s dining area—a broad open space near the lower center of the vessel.
The scent of freshly cooked food hung warmly in the air, mixed with laughter and the occasional clang of dishes.
Dozens of sailors were already there, gathered around wooden tables bolted into the floor to keep them stable on the rocking ship.
Some were laughing heartily, others deep in conversation.
A few were drinking from large mugs, enjoying the rare moment of rest, while others focused more on piling food onto their plates like it was a contest.
The atmosphere was loud but relaxed—comfortable in a way that only came from shared hardship and trust on long journeys.