Distant Shores 2: Waves Of Time

The Real Atlantis

The Fountain of Youth has been restored. The water coming from the fountain once again is bright turquoise; it contrasts the shiny gold of the fountain beautifully. The chamber floor is no longer covered in dark rocks, but instead a glossy cerulean tile with fish designs inlaid into them. One thing you notice though is Robert's body is gone. Before you can question it, you're swept into Edward's arms and he happily kisses you. Charlie and Oliver appear next to you and she slaps your back joyfully.

"You did it, love! The curse is broken!"

"Are you sure? I mean we haven't seen the rest of Atlantis yet?"

"Would you like to, Coral? This is the Atlantis we wanted to show you."

Monterey's voice comes from the doorway. He's standing with Havelock and Varuna on either side of him. All three of them are grinning so big that you think it's hurting their jaws.

"Yeah, I'd love to."

The elevator wave back down is smoother and the water surrounding Atlantis is now crystal clear. When you disembark, you can hear Oliver suck in a breath of awe.

"There are no words to describe the wonder of this place. I've never seen anything like it before." 

The yellow houses are now standing tall and bright- like they just got a fresh coat of paint and they're ready for the housing market. The gardens are overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables that now have an otherworldly shine to them. The wildlife has returned to Atlantis; many colorful fish dot the waters. Dolphins leap out of the waves, while crabs nestle in bright orange sand dunes. Birds soar through the blue sky cawing merrily. You are comforted to see Robert's parrot squawking as he lands on your shoulder.

"Never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad to see you. Are you hurt, boy?"

He shakes his head then nuzzles your palm as you reach up to pet him.

"Is Sunset safe?"

He chirps back with excitement, then takes off again towards your ship.

I'm glad my birds are safe. Don't worry, Robert. I'll take care of your parrot for you.

The Tritons that survived the battle are free of injuries; you can see their cuts, scrapes, and bruises disappearing off their skin with the return of their magic.

All the bodies of the deceased are missing, just like Robert's. You're about to ask Monterey about it, when you hear voices calling out for you and Edward.

"The captains are alive!"

You turn and see your crew rushing toward you, and you let out a sigh of relief when you see they're all unharmed as well. Maggie looks at you, Edward, Charlie, and Oliver before asking,

"Where's Robert?"

You feel fresh tears spring in your eyes, but before you can respond, Varuna claps her webbed hands together and stands on a great white shark pedestal.

"Tritons, as you can see the curse is finally broken!"

The Tritons let out a loud, thunderous cheer. The silver dust around their eyes somehow sparkles brighter; it makes them shine even more.

"And we wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for Coral Sinclaire and Robert Valdez. The descendants we have been waiting years for, saved us in ways they could never imagine. Tonight we will have our Wave of Life Ceremony to honor our fallen and to rejoice in the way Atlantis will be, now and forever!"

Unable to handle all the excitement with your mind still swimming, you run through the gold plated doors to the dining room, Edward hot on your heels.

You lean against a table, catching your breath when you see that Charlie and Oliver followed you two, and brought Monterey with them. Oliver puts a conforming hand on your shoulder.

"I know you've almost solved the puzzle of your family, but I believe Monterey here can give you the last pieces."

You whirl around so your gaze is fully on Monterey.

"You knew, didn't you?"

When he doesn't answer, you continue on.

"You knew Robert was going to die for me!"

He solemnly nods his head.

"We were telling the truth in the Fountain of Youth's chamber. We knew the battle would happen. You see, after you arrived, Robert had told us he sent word for his crew and that they were going to attack. We spent the coming weeks preparing our armors and weapons. When you and Robert couldn't find an answer to the curse that allowed both of you to stay, he took matters into his own hands. The night before the battle, he approached Varuna and told her what he was planning. He wanted you to stay with your child. She agreed to his idea."

"But how could you accept a plan that involved a battle where your people died?"

"We always knew we'd have to battle for Atlantis one day. At least this way, Robert brought the fight to us so we were ready on our terms, and we had the home advantage."

You're torn between anger and understanding, and it shows as your voice slightly raises,

"How many secrets do you people have hidden from me?!"

Monterey looks down, shamefaced.

"Actually just one more. May I see the compass?"