Nine days later, they were bound from France and Brand was gloriously happy.
The sea had settled into a long, rolling obedience beneath the keel, and although the winds were becoming capricious, he found himself quite content. Even the sky chose a temper that suited him. It was as though the world itself had agreed, for once, not to contest his will.
The first sail turned slightly and the others followed. He sighed, content.
Alexander's business would flourish. The ambassador had given a confirmation before they'd left. The French capital would follow where the state had already lent its quiet blessing.
And he had sent his letter.
One of his ships had arrived in time to bear it back before their departure; two others remained inbound, each carrying its own portion of perfume for Spain and Japan. The mechanisms were in motion now, too well-set to be undone by any sudden ill wind. Against the hull, the sea breathed.
All was perfectly well.
Except sleep still eluded him.
