Captain Fane laughs. “Not even your fellow whores are willing to help you.” His voice is so thoroughly pleased. I sniff, forcing myself to keep it together, to not give up. Sail didn’t give up, not for a second. I can do no less for him. I will do this. I heave again, ribbons straining, pulling at the skin of my back, like sewing needles threaded through the muscles. Captain Fane takes a taunting step closer to me. Close, but not close enough for my ribbons to lash at him. He studies them, taking in the way they curl, the way they tug. Vile eyes flick up, a crooked smile showing off those few
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