It was strange watching the sea creatures who’d caused so much pain and instilled fear in sailors’ hearts for centuries celebrate in their new devotion to preserving mankind instead of devouring it. It seemed even killers could embrace humanity when given a chance.

Apollo, Calliope, Rylander, and I retreated from the throne room. Calliope said her goodbyes, hands extended along her slow, winding path through crowds of sirens thanking her for her intervention.

Rylander’s arm wrapped around me, hugging me close to his side. We were both wet, battered, and tired, but alive.

The sounds of the world faded, and I concentrated on the beats of Rylander’s heart as we walked. No one spoke until we reached the sand. My boots weighed me down like rocks, sinking into the soft ground as Apollo signaled for us to stop.

“The waters no longer possess the power of the song. All travelers shall be safe. I’ve ordered The Sea Singer to anchor on the other side of the island,” Apollo said, pointing in the direction of the ship.

Rylander’s brows pinched. “Why?”

Apollo looked between us with curious eyes, settling on Rylander to answer. “I assumed you’d want to bring your men back home. Although they didn’t accompany you on this voyage, they have accompanied you with fierce devotion since you began this journey. Hermes and Artemis took the seven men from Captain Lou’s ship and reunited them with The Sea Singer. They are ready to set sail when you board. All will be rewarded, just like The Freedom’s crew has been.”

I moved out of Rylander’s embrace and crossed my arms. “And how have we been rewarded?” My eyes raked over Apollo, searching for a hint of some sensational trick.

Apollo smirked. “Moments ago, I made sure that all the treasure from the bottom of the throne room’s pool made its way into your ship’s hold. You heard me ask the sirens if they believed piracy of treasure was fair. I started with their own.” He bowed his head. “You are welcome.”

My mouth dropped open. “All? Even the treasures others pilfered?” I had only bargained for The Freedom’s stolen loot.

Apollo nodded. “I think your death for all the treasure is a reasonable exchange. Don’t you think, Captain Lou?” He winked.

I nodded in silence. My crewmembers would be taken care of for the rest of their lives, and that was payment enough for me.

Apollo placed his hand on Rylander’s shoulder. “I will see you back in Cava, my son.”

“No.” He shook his head. “My life is indebted to Lou and The Freedom as part of your deal with her.”