"So the blood wasn't even yours nor his?" Ashley asked.
"Exactly," Hain said, and Ashley sighed in relief again.
"Oh! Here," he handed her the box Evan gave him. "This is from Evan."
Ashley took it and opened the small box to see a necklace with an anchor pendant. She smiled upon seeing it.
"Do you want me to help you wear it?" Pliena asked.
Ashley shook her head as she closed the box, "No. It's alright, Auntie." She smiled and hid it behind her.
"And don't worry anymore; they are currently travelling towards the palace of the Eleaned Kingdom," Hain reassured her while Ashley smiled.
"Thank you," she said.
"You're welcome, Kid," he said.
Then Ashley hugged Hain, taking him aback. But he hugged her back even though it was awkward.
Ashley smiled as she patted him on his back, and they let go of each other.
###
