In the Dark, They Whispered.
Low voices murmured beneath the creaking of the ship, drowned only by the gentle lapping of the waves against the hull.
Hidden in the shadows between crates and ropes, some people spoke in hushed tones, their eyes flickering toward the two newcomers when they weren't looking.
"They don't belong here," one voice said, the edge of a blade glinting as it was idly turned between restless fingers.
"They'll ruin everything," another muttered. "We've worked too hard for this."
A third voice, rough with unease, asked, "You think the captain suspects?"
A pause. Then, more quietly: "Not yet. But if he finds out—"
A sudden gust of wind rattled the sails. The murmurers fell silent, melting into the ship's shadows as footsteps approached.
*****