𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐆𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐌𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝘇𝗲 𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿

50.. what was lost

Obviously, the journey wasn't easy. But Matt said he clearly remembered the way to the cities and where the Iron Lion is hidden.

Thèrèse adjusted the controls, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "We're making good progress so far," she reported, looking at the navigation system.

"Just a bit more, and we should reach the Iron Lion's location."

The hours passed as the ship sailed through the open waters. The crew exchanged weary glances. Thèrèse yawned, rubbing her eyes to stay alert at the controls.

But then, after what seemed like an eternity, Matt pointed out towards the distance. "Hey, I see something! Dead ahead!"

Everyone's eyes widened as they squinted in the direction Matt was pointing. In the distance, something shimmering in the sunlight could be faintly seen. It was getting larger as the ship inched closer.

"That could be the city?" Luke guessed.

Thèrèse moved closer to look through her binoculars. "Yes, I can see the silhouette of buildings. That's the city, alright."

Hugo and Vince exchanged a look, both appearing relieved at the sight.

"That's Emberfield," Nico recognised. "Matt, your rebel base is in that town?" He smiled.

Matt nodded, his eyes fixed on the city shimmering in the distance. "Yeah, that's where the Iron Lion is hidden. Deep in the center of Emberfield."

The crew members exchanged glances, the reality of what they were about to encounter starting to sink in. The Iron Lion, the symbol of resistance and hope, was now within their reach.

Vince patted Matt on the back, a small smile on his face. "Well, we're almost there bud."

As the ship approached Emberfield, Nico shared his knowledge about the city. "I've been to Emberfield before, during my pirating days. It's a good place, with good people. They're willing to help out survivors, especially those who are just looking for supplies and food. I hope it hasn't changed much since then."

Minho raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the description. "So, it's a city of 'good people'? Sounds too good to be true, if you ask me," he remarked, cynical as ever.

"Yeah," Thomas said softly. "Where we came from, most of the people liked to kill eachother."

"Can't say I blame them," Gally interjected with a shrug. "I mean, survival of the fittest, right? It's always every man for himself."

Vince shot Gally a disapproving look, not appreciating his pessimistic attitude. "We don't know what we'll find in Emberfield," he said firmly. "Let's hope it's still how Nico remembers it."

"And us!" Matt, Luke and Hugo raised their arms as they plastered on cheeky grins.

Everyone chuckled, amused by the trio's enthusiasm.

"Alright, alright," Minho rolled his eyes, but a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Maybe Emberfield will be a nice change of pace, who knows?"

As the ship sailed closer to the docks of Emberfield, the crew's excitement grew. The city seemed mostly intact, with houses and shops still standing. The scent of fresh air and trees filled the air, a stark contrast to the salty sea they were used to.

"Wow," Frypan said, leaning over the railing and taking in the view. "This place is quite nice. Look at all those trees!"

"Nature lives?!" Thèrèse's jaw dropped.

"Looks like it," Minho chuckled, his arms crossed over his chest. "Seems like not every corner of the world is a hellhole yet."

"Wow, you guys pretty much raised in peace." Thomas whispered to Matt, Luke and Hugo in awe.