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They woke up in their inn. Ed brought Stede breakfast in bed. He hasn't quite learned how to cook yet, but he gets better every time. They lay together for a long time, treating each other, because there are almost no visitors yet.
Then Ed went fishing, and Stede sat and talked to Izzy for a long time. Asking him first felt the right thing to do.
In the evening, they walked along the shore as usual. It was a full moon. At one point, Stede turned to Ed. You wear fine things well. Will you agree to wear this thing? It was a modest ring with river pearls. The same as on Ed's necklace. The same one that streamed out of Ed's eyes at that very moment.
They sent word to the crew with Buttons and when they arrived, Lucius helped organize everything. The twinkle in his eyes and the playful squint began to return. Wee John made a dress for Ed. Roach made a cake. Frenchie was playing that song Izzy had sung once.
Mary and Doug also arrived, taking Alma and Louis with them. They had already been to the inn once.
Swear to kill for him.
To take revenge in case of death.
Keep the ship afloat.
They didn't slash each other's faces, but the kiss felt sharper than a blade. Officially maties. Now and forever.