I watched the animated shadows around the small cabin and listened to the creaks and groans of the ship.
Having just woken up, I let my mind settle, staying still and silent by the bed.
The three-day journey from Bulacan to the fringes of Cavite was over—and without incident. Isidro had managed to convince Señor Alcantara, and the Diligencia was able to leave port on the morning of the 26th without garnering suspicion. She waited for us offshore of Ternate until dusk.
I still couldn't believe everything had gone as planned.
I tilted my head, noticing something for the first time. There was no sound of the engine. The ship wasn't traveling—it was anchored.
I stepped out of the cabin and made my way to the deck. The sun was already out in its full glory. The vessel sat still on the calm waters, gently cradled by the waves.
