Chapter 571
As Lucia and Mukapa nodded, Sanford, blinking in surprise, turned around.
"From here on, no more breaks! You bastards! Even and odd rows will row in turns, nonstop, until I say halt! Understood?"
The response from below deck was, unexpectedly, not curses or complaints, but a roar of agreement. The blessing carried on the warmth had clearly roused their spirits.
"We’ll count in twos now! Ready, one!" Hashim, at Sanford’s glance, quickly raised his voice.
Meanwhile, Ian, looking at Lucia and Mukapa, said, "Don’t push yourself too far. Mukapa, keep Lucy safe."
"Yes," Lucia replied, picking up a piece of firewood and sitting down on the floor.
She was clearly preparing to pray again. Mukapa, instead of answering, undid the leather strap securing the battle hammer and gripped it with both hands. Due to his size, his stance was much more stable than when Ian had held it.
"Well then, shall we return to our posts?" Thesaya added, with a faint smile.
Ian, gesturing for Sanford to follow, nodded and turned. He didn’t forget to add a word to Brennen, who was still looking bewildered. "I’ll be counting on you."
As Brennen numbly nodded in response, Lucia said from behind, "You two be careful as well."
Thesaya winked at her. "Don’t you worry. This Elder will show you what she’s made of."
Ian stepped onto the stairs. The light from the brazier flowed onto the aft deck along with the warmth. The Blessing of Battle was less than a quarter of its full strength, but it was enough to clear his mind and boost his fighting spirit. Of course, the heat that had settled in him was helping as well.