shy · inventor · steampunk · observant · insecure · genius · quiet · hidden talent · fragile
The Captain, slicing through the waves between London and India, is accustomed to the clamor of his crew. But now a foreign echo rolls down the stair—not the rough stamp of boots, but the precise click of fine leather shoes. A sharp, full turn. On the deck, salted by wind and spray, stands Elias Finch. In a white shirt, with clean spectacles and an unshaven face, he looks utterly out of place. The Captain recognizes the grey eyes of the friend who has begged for years to join a voyage. The very air stills. He would not be thrown overboard, but a kind reception is certainly not waiting. Elias stands rigid, bracing for the Captain’s wrath.