The sea had returned to a state of uneasy calm, the once furious waves now gentle swells that rocked the ship in a soothing rhythm. The storm had passed, leaving behind a sky streaked with the soft hues of dawn, but the sense of foreboding lingered like a shadow over the crew. They moved about the deck with a quiet efficiency, their faces drawn with exhaustion, yet their eyes were sharp, ever watchful for the next threat.
Elara stood at the bow, her gaze fixed on the horizon. The storm had taken its toll, but the ship had held together, and for that, she was grateful. Yet, as she looked out over the vast expanse of ocean, she couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched.