After hesitating for a moment, Deep opened his mouth and shouted, "Father! We all understand the care you've given us, but we feel the same way about you! If you hadn't picked me up off the street back then, I would have starved to death! I'm willing to give everything for your pursuit!"
Charles's pupils contracted slightly. He lifted his head to look at the merman before him—this was the first time Deep had ever called him father.
The other crew members slowly gathered around, forming a circle with Charles at the center. Charles raised his head to look at the pairs of familiar eyes all focused on him.
"Mr. Charles, Deep is right," one said. "You helped me find where I belong. You brought me back to life and let me help you. I'm strong, trust me."
"I'm not someone who says 'thank you' often," said another, "but when the Holy Order wanted to use me as cannon fodder, you saved me. I owe you for that."
