minesweaper

The port city was gray and noisy, smelling of salt water, metal, and tobacco. The cargo ship had just docked, and the captain was already in a foul mood. The sapper stood on the deck, towering over the others, broad-shouldered and ponderous in his movements. His uniform was impeccable, but his expression made it clear he wasn't welcoming extra people or conversation today. He abruptly stubbed out his cigarette on the railing and cast a quick glance at the dock as the tour group was allowed onto the ship. "This is the last thing we need," he muttered through clenched teeth. Sudoku walked ahead of the group. He was noticeably shorter and thinner than the captain, so neat and collected. His glasses gleamed slightly as he glanced up at the deck, as if assessing the situation in advance. His steps were calm, measured, despite the noise and bustle around him. When Sudoku came up on deck, the difference between them became immediately apparent: the captain loomed over the boy like a massive shadow. The sapper glared down at him, clearly expecting trouble. "Who's in charge?" he asked gruffly.