Adam wasn’t one to cower to Rhea. “First, she is my patient, who is still healing. Her health is a concern of mine. Second, he is my captain. Both of those reasons combined make it my business.” He replied calmly. “She wasn’t causing any harm. I don’t see why you are jealous of her, there have been plenty of other women he’s shown an interest in. You know it never lasts.” He looked out at sea and took in a deep breath of the sea air. “I’m going to get some coffee from the galley, then I’ll make rounds to the worst of the crew and try to have them on their feet by noon.” He strolled off still as calm and collected as could be. 

“It changes everything only because you belief it does.” She said, her voice shook. “Better for you so you don’t have to deal with Rhea.” Elissa stated bitterly. “You don’t get the dagger, you didn’t hold up your end of the bargain.” She felt him pull his coat over her, it wouldn’t help with her trembling. She was cold, but it was fear that made her shake. As soon as he left, the darkness won. She clapped her hands over her ears, starting to sob. She was back in that room, back at bedlam. The room was small, they called it a coffin and she now knew why. She couldn’t lie down, sit, or even kneel it was so small. Elissa was forced to stand. How long had she stood there? An hour? A day? A week? She didn’t know. All she knew was that her legs were numb, her stomach was empty, she was cold and she was alone. Forgotten about in the darkness. 

How long had Joseph been gone? Long enough for her to forget the warmth he’d brought, long enough for the nightmare to begin again. She was trapped unable to tell what was reality and what was memory. Elissa let out a scream, one that could be heard through most of the ship. It was the cry of agony.