The Frosted Lantern docked silently in a secluded cove, its sails slack under the faint moonlight. Miura led Sabrina up a winding path flanked by tall cedars, the air filled with the soft rustling of leaves and the distant crash of waves. The chill of the night deepened as they reached Miura’s house, its slanted roof and dark wooden walls blending seamlessly into the grove.

The inside was modest yet elegant, a testament to Miura’s refined taste. A low lacquered table sat in the centre of the room, surrounded by silk cushions. Wooden shelves lined one wall, holding scrolls, small porcelain vases, and intricately carved trinkets. A futon, its coverlet embroidered with cranes and plum blossoms, rested neatly in the corner near a brazier that radiated warmth. Lanterns hung from the beams, their soft glow casting a golden light over the room.

Sabrina stepped inside hesitantly, her fingers brushing the door frame as though afraid to disturb the serenity. “This… suits you,” she said softly, her gaze wandering over the delicate details of the space.

Miura smiled faintly, her fingers deftly lighting another lantern. “You sound surprised.”

“I suppose I am,” Sabrina admitted, crossing the threshold. “It’s just… I never imagined a pirate would live like this.”

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Miura chuckled, kneeling by the brazier to add another log. “Pirate, courtesan, warrior… none of those roles preclude an appreciation for beauty.”

Sabrina smiled despite herself, her hands fidgeting with the edge of her blue skirt. “It’s lovely.”

Miura straightened and gestured to the cushions by the low table. “Sit. I’ll pour us tea.”

Sabrina obeyed, settling onto a cushion as Miura moved with practiced grace. A kettle hung over the brazier, steam rising gently as she poured the tea into two delicate cups. The aroma of jasmine filled the air, mingling with the warmth of the fire.

As they sipped in silence, Sabrina found herself relaxing for the first time in weeks. The tension of the storm, the battle, and the constant fear of pursuit faded into the background. She watched Miura over the rim of her cup, taking in the soft light that played across her features.

“You’re different here,” Sabrina said quietly. “More… open.”

Miura met her gaze, her dark eyes unreadable but warm. “And you are braver than you think, Sabrina. There’s a strength in you that I admire.”

Sabrina felt her cheeks heat, her heart beating a little faster. “I don’t feel brave.”

Miura set her cup down, leaning forward slightly. “Perhaps not. But you are.” Her voice softened, her gaze unwavering. “You’re braver than anyone I’ve ever known.”

The words hung between them, heavy with meaning. Sabrina hesitated, then reached out, her fingers brushing against Miura’s hand. “I… I don’t know how to do this,” she admitted, her voice trembling.

Miura’s lips curved into a faint smile as she turned her hand to grasp Sabrina’s. “Then let me show you.”