All Aboard!

Chapter 8

"So where is it that we are headed, first-mate Grace?"
'Our first clue was supposedly left in the one of the precious metal seas by Firebeard.'
"Now that you mention former captains, what occurred on this ship before dropping anchor in our time?' "I think it would be better if you heard this story from Leo, it was his plan after all."
'Fair enough, I will have to have a word with him, I am not even positive I know where the precious metal seas are.'
"I'm guessing geography has changed a lot since you last sailed. Why don't you have a chat with Percy before we gather the crew?"
'That is an ideal plan, I will gather Hazel and Michael and we shall convene in the records room.'

Percy and Frank were seated at a large table pouring over a confusing map. It had far to many pieces on it, it bore no resemblance to the map Nico had charted when he first joined the Navy.
"Why does this map have so many land masses?" Hazel asked with puzzlement in her voice. She had walked up behind the pair and was looking over Frank's shoulder. Frank jumped slightly at how close they were before replying.
'This is a world map. All the land masses are the seven continents.'
He pointed out the seven masses and the others looked on in wonder.
"So I take it you have no idea where we're headed Captain?"
'Keeping us on our heading is the job of the navigator, your job in other words. The captain oversees that everything else is running smoothly throughout the proposed journey."

The sound of pots being banged on counters echoed down the corridor from the galley. Leo was dancing around adding spices to the largest pot. It gave off a wonderful aroma of garlic, onions, rosemary, tomatoes and some kind of meat. He turned at the feeling of being watched and saw Nico leaning against the doorway with a small smile playing across his lips.
"You have a very unusual technique however the scent seems well worth it."
'Wait until you taste it, it's my favourite recipe!' Leo exclaimed with a flick of his wooden spoon.
"Where did you get this fine recipe?" 'My mom... taught it to me before... she passed.'
Leo turned away to stir the pot while Nico walked further into the room.
"I too lost my mother, she was poorly for a long time before the illness took her from us."
Leo put his spoon down and reached out to touch Nico's shoulder but hesitated, he remembered how Nico would blush whenever he accidentally touched him. Nico noticed Leo's hesitation and reached out to squeeze his hand. There was a clearing of a throat and the two boys jumped apart. Jason stood in the doorway looking flustered.
'So, uh, have you guys talked about where we're heading first? If you're taking suggestions I'd say we should cross the bronze sea as its the calmest.'
"That would be the sea surrounding North America correct?"
'That's the one Captain.'
"Is this alright with you Leo?" Nico looked to Leo for his approval. Leo smiled wide and replied, 'you're the captain now, I'm just here to make the sloppiest sloppy Joe's you've ever had. Now stop distracting me so lunch will be ready on time!'