Benjamin suddenly noticed a rope ladder hanging from the side of the ship. A small smile appeared on his face as he swam toward it, relieved that they finally had a way onto the ship.
He reached out and grabbed the ladder, but when he looked beside him, Lannae was nowhere to be seen.
His smile immediately disappeared.
"Princess?"
His gaze darted across the water until he spotted an arm disappearing beneath the surface a short distance away.
Benjamin didn't hesitate.
He released the ladder and dove straight into the water.
Beneath the surface, he caught sight of Lannae sinking deeper into the dark water. He swam toward her as quickly as he could and reached out, wrapping his arms around her.
With all the strength he had left, he pushed himself toward the surface, bringing her with him.
When they finally broke through the water, Benjamin held Lannae tightly against his chest, struggling to catch his breath.
"Princess!" he called.
There was no response.
