The storm raged on, the relentless drumming of rain matching Sabrina’s unease. Lantern light flickered in the small room, casting long shadows that seemed to reach for her and Miura. They sat across from each other, the air heavy with unspoken thoughts.

“He’ll come,” Sabrina said, breaking the silence. Her voice carried the certainty of someone who had fought Robert’s battles before.

Miura’s gaze was sharp, unwavering. “Let him. I have no intention of hiding.”

“It’s not that simple.” Sabrina’s hands clenched into fists. “You don’t understand what he’s capable of. Robert isn’t just relentless–he’s... different.”

Miura raised an eyebrow. “Different how?”

Sabrina hesitated, searching for the right words. “He’s not just a soldier. He’s… gifted. He can manipulate the sea, command the waves. And his mind–it’s like a weapon on its own.”

Miura tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her dark eyes. “A pontumancer,” she mused. “And more.”

Miura leaned back slightly, considering this new information. “So your brother will fight us with magic.”

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Sabrina nodded, her jaw tightening. “He’s not afraid to use it, believing his power makes him superior–untouchable.”

A faint smile tugged at Miura’s lips. “Untouchable, you say?”

Sabrina frowned. “This isn’t a game, Miura. You haven’t seen what he can do.”

“And he hasn’t seen what I can do,” Miura replied, her voice calm but edged with steel. “You forget, Sabrina, that I am no stranger to magic–or to men who think themselves invincible.”

Sabrina leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. “I didn’t survive this long by underestimating anyone, and neither should you. Robert won’t fight fair. He’ll use everything he has to crush us.”

Miura’s expression softened slightly. “Then we’ll fight with everything we have. Together.”

Sabrina exhaled, her tension easing just enough to let her shoulders relax. “I suppose you have a plan?”

Miura nodded. “At dawn, we sail. Out there, on the open sea, he won’t have the advantage he thinks he does.”

Sabrina leaned back, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “You’re confident. I like that.”

“I’ll need you at your best,” Miura said. “You’re a privateer, Sabrina. You know the sea as well as I do. This fight will require all our skills–and more.”

Sabrina’s smile faded, replaced by a steely resolve. “Then we’d better prepare. If Robert wants a war, we’ll give him one.”

Miura’s gaze lingered on her for a moment, a flicker of admiration in her eyes. “Good. Gather your things. The storm will cover our departure.”

As Sabrina rose to leave, Miura’s voice stopped her. “Sabrina.”

She turned, her blue-and-white attire catching the lantern’s glow.

Miura’s expression softened, her words quiet but firm. “Trust yourself. You’re stronger than you realize.”

Sabrina nodded, her heart steadying. “I’ve faced worse storms.”

Miura smiled faintly, turning back to the window as the rain streaked down the glass. “Then let’s make this one unforgettable.”