"Well then, permission granted." Paul met her at the top of the ramp. "I'm guessing you need your gear from your cabin. You know where it is."
Cal and Bundo packed up her clothes and the little rug in a duffle; it didn't take much time. She put sketchbooks in her satchel. The bottle of brandy from Captain Jenkins was still a quarter full. Cal picked it up, while Bundo shouldered the duffle and they returned to the deck.
"Captain." Paul stood at attention along with Joliu and Jorges. "I will call you Captain one last time," he asserted when she attempted to demur. He saluted her along with the others. Wherever you go, know the Kestrel and her crew will come if you call."
Cal returned their salute, then handed Paul the bottle.
"Drink this as a toast for me. I've said it before, but I'll say it again. You are the best-damned crew afloat."
She walked down the gangway and didn't look back.
***