These lines illuminated the vessel against the backdrop of the night, giving it an otherworldly appearance that felt both awe-inspiring and slightly unnerving.
As the boat neared, its details became clearer. The hull was dark, almost blending with the night sea, except for the electric blue that seemed to outline its form and give it an energy that was hard to ignore. Ty couldn't help but appreciate the craftsmanship. It looked old yet advanced, a peculiar combination that sparked a myriad of questions about the technology of this world.
The boat didn't cut through the water as much as it seemed to glide over it, making barely a sound. That silent approach added to its mystique, making it seem more like a phantom ship than a mode of transport for Arena contenders.
Upon docking, the crew wasted no time securing the vessel with ropes that looked more durable than any Ty had seen before. The gangplank was then lowered with a smooth, practiced motion, inviting them aboard.
The lead guard's voice was firm, leaving no room for negotiation. "Everyone, start getting on the boat now, follow the exact instructions or you get no food and also no sleep." The urgency in his tone spurred the prisoners into action, including Ty, who made his way to the front of the line. As he did, a guard stepped in front of him, prompting Ty to retrieve the fairy from his pocket.
"You aren't falling asleep on me, are you?" he whispered to her.
"Let's get going," the guard in front of Ty insisted, indicating that he would lead the way to prevent any mistakes.
"Of course, just a little nap," the fairy responded sleepily, prompting a small smile from Ty before he tucked her safely away and prepared to follow the guard inside the boat.
As Ty stepped onto the boat, he was immediately struck by its interior. It was nothing like he had anticipated.
The corridor they entered was lined with luminous panels, casting a soft, blue glow similar to the electric lines on the boat's exterior.
The fairy, who had been floating idly, perked up at the question. "Well, yes, actually. I spent a long time thinking about it, really. Why not call me Blue!"
"Blue? Like the color?" Ty repeated, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"That's right," Blue replied with a proud smile, crossing her arms confidently. "I was thinking about it when I was tricking the guy to follow you and how I'm able to shoot out water from my hands. I'm blue, my waters are blue, I glow blue. Well, my skin is a bit tanned, but it glows blue, so it counts!"
"Do you not like it?" Blue asked, a slight hint of concern in her voice, wondering if her chosen name met Ty's approval.
Ty chuckled, his response carrying a warmth that filled the compact space. "No, actually, I think it fits you perfectly, Blue." He paused, considering their other companion's potential reaction. "Though, I don't know if Nana will like it as much, so run it by her when you see her again."
"Make sure JJ gets this, okay? I'm entrusting my tiny blue fairy, who's officially named Blue as of 20 seconds ago, into her care. She now holds two mementos of me, each from people very close to my heart," Ty instructed, the significance of his words not lost on either of them.
"I trust she'll take good care of both and return them to me when we meet again. If, for some reason, I don't make it back, I'm entrusting you to return to Nana. You might not know her well, but I'm sure you'll understand why when the time comes," he continued, the possibility of not returning hanging in the air like a silent specter.
"I'll do everything within my power to survive and make it through. Stay vigilant, Blue. The next few weeks could bring about anything. If we don't see each other again, know that I'm grateful for everything and that you've been amazing. I hope our paths cross again under better circumstances," Ty concluded, a hopeful note in his voice attempting to pierce the somber mood.
Blue, moved to tears by the depth of Ty's message, managed to say, "Th-that's so sweet!"
Ty offered a small smile, an attempt to lighten the moment. "Oh, it's nothing really. Just make sure you focus on the message and stay safe, okay?" he reassured her, emphasizing the importance of her mission and her well-being.