The Legacy of the Uncharted

~ Chapter 8 ~ Calm before storm

The first few days after leaving Misthaven were calm, a welcome reprieve from the challenges the crew had faced. The *Mariner's Whisper* sailed smoothly, and for the first time in a while, the crew had time to get to know each other better.

Lucy spent her time in the kitchen, experimenting with the new spices and ingredients they had collected from Misthaven. She eagerly shared her creations with the crew, bringing everyone together over meals.

- Lucy : I've got a few new dishes to try! First, we have 'Island Spice Stew,' then there's 'Tropical Sunrise Salad,' and for dessert, 'Coconut Cream Pie.' What do you think?"

The crew gathered in the galley to taste Lucy's dishes, laughing and bonding over the shared experience. Each day.

- Keoni : I'm glad too, Theo. Being here with all of you, it's the adventure I always dreamed of."

However, tension remained between **Keoni and Sophie**. They hadn't spoken much since leaving Misthaven, and the unspoken tension lingered whenever they were in the same room.

- Sophie : tried to focus on her duties, but she couldn't help feeling left out as she watched Theo and Keoni grow closer.

**Sophie** (thinking): "I need to let this go. I can't let it affect the crew."

But despite her resolve, it was hard to ignore the growing distance between her and the others.

The Message

On the morning of the fourth day, a seagull landed on the deck with a small parchment tied to its leg. **Eli** untied the note and read it aloud to the crew.

- Eli : To the crew of the *Mariner's Whisper*: Urgent news from Misthaven. A great storm has struck the island, causing severe damage. The elders request your immediate return if possible. The island's safety is at risk."

The news hit the crew hard.

- Alexandria : Misthaven... We have to go back."

- Keoni : (worried): "My grandfather... the islanders... we can't leave them like this."

- Theo : It won't be easy getting back there. We're days away, and who knows what the weather will be like."

- Lucy : But we have to try. They helped us, and now it's our turn to help them."

- Belle : We should set a course right away, but we need to be prepared for anything."

The decision was unanimous: they would return to Misthaven, despite the risks.

As they sailed back towards Misthaven, the crew remained vigilant. But in their haste, they failed to notice that someone was missing.

- Sophie : had gone below deck earlier in the day, seeking some time alone. No one noticed that she hadn't returned until later that night when **Lucy** went to check on her.

-Lucy : ( calling out): "Sophie? Sophie, where are you?"

When there was no response, Lucy's concern grew. She searched the cabins and the deck, but Sophie was nowhere to be found. Panicked, she ran to **Alexandria**.