The Forbidden Dino Island (Apply and interactive fic)

#5

The following morning, the group reconvened at Neha's house, their expressions a mixture of anticipation and resolve. They gathered around a large map that Neha had managed to sketch out from her parents' notes, detailing the general layout of the island as far as they knew.

"Alright," Neha began, tapping the map, "we'll arrive here, on the northern shore. From there, we'll follow this path that my parents marked as the safest—though we'll still need to stay alert for any... unplanned encounters."

JK crossed his arms, glancing down at the map. "If we stick to the path, we might avoid the worst of it, but we should have some backup plans in case we get cornered."

V nodded, glancing at the supply list he'd put together. "I've got extra gear ready. If we end up needing to reroute, at least we'll have enough to get us through a few extra days. But let's avoid that if we can."

Rose tapped her fingers on the edge of the map, her gaze intense. "Are there any landmarks we can use for navigation? Something that'll tell us we're on the right track?"

Neha pointed to a rough drawing of a large, rocky cliff near the eastern side of the island. "This should be visible from quite a distance. Once we spot it, we'll know we're close to the inner area where... well, where my parents thought some of the most unique species might be."

Iris looked around, her expression serious. "We should also talk signals—hand signs, sounds we can use if we need help without making too much noise. We don't want to draw attention."

Raj gave a curt nod. "Good idea. Let's go over a few now."

The group spent the next hour practicing signals and going over each detail, ensuring everyone knew their role and how to handle emergencies. When they finally felt prepared, there was a pause as each member looked around, absorbing the magnitude of what they were about to face.

Finally, Neha spoke, her voice steady. "This isn't just about finding the island or even discovering dinosaurs. It's about honoring what my parents started. And I'm grateful to have all of you here for it."

A collective nod went around the room, the tension palpable. They had each come for different reasons, but now, standing together, there was a shared commitment to see it through.

"Alright then," Rose said, her voice steady but her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "We've got the plan. Let's make this count."

Just as the team finished their preparations, the doorbell rang, its chime cutting through the tension in the room. Neha exchanged a quick look with Ava before walking to the door, her heart beating a little faster. She knew who it would be.

Opening the door, Neha found herself face-to-face with Jeon Jungkook, the renowned professor she'd sought out for his expertise on ancient species. Dressed in a sleek black jacket and holding a thin tablet under his arm, he looked every bit the authoritative figure, yet his eyes held a spark of curiosity and interest.

"Professor Jungkook," Neha greeted, stepping aside to let him in. "Thank you for coming."

Jungkook nodded and stepped inside, glancing around at the group assembled in Neha's living room. Recognizing Iris immediately, he gave her a formal nod, then took in the others with a polite smile, though his gaze lingered momentarily on JK.

"Quite the gathering you have here," Jungkook commented, glancing down at his tablet. "I take it everyone here is involved in your project?"

Neha nodded, gesturing toward the map and supplies they'd laid out. "Yes, we're all part of this. I called you because we needed more insight—anything you might know about what we're facing on that island."