Heart Of Atlantis

David stood at the table, scanning the items laid out before him. maps, navigational tools, and survival gear. The room was dimly lit, the atmosphere heavy with the weight of their decision. "We can't afford any mistakes, James. If we're doing this, we're doing it right," he said, his voice steady but carrying a hint of tension.

James, scribbling notes nearby, nodded. "Supplies are covered, food, water, medical gear. Thanks to your father, we've got a ship that can get us there. But we're going into uncharted territory, David. We need to be smart about this."

David picked up a coil of rope, testing its weight. "We'll need more than just supplies. Diving gear, weapons… anything that can help us survive out there."

James jotted it down, his pen tapping against the paper. "Got it. Navigation tools are packed, and I've added backup power and emergency flares. This isn't just about getting there, it's about making it back."

"Yes making it back it's more important", David added.

 Later that evening David stood outside Elina's hospital room. The fluorescent lights buzzed faintly. He took a deep breath before stepping inside.

Elina was awake, her pale face lighting up as she saw him. Nurse Pearson gave him a reassuring nod before leaving the room quietly.

David sat beside her, taking her small hand in his. "Pumpkin, there's something I need to talk to you about," he began, his voice soft but hesitant.

Elina tilted her head, studying him with a calmness that surprised him. "You're leaving, aren't you?"

David blinked, startled. "How did you—?"

"I can tell, Dad," she said with a faint smile. "I know you've been preparing for something big, the argument you had with aunt Rachael earlier, your trip to los angeles, and i heard you whisper in your sleep about a boat, This is about me, isn't it?"

David's throat tightened. "Yes," he admitted, amazed at Elina's smartness. "I'm doing this for you, to find something that might help."

Elina's smile faltered for a moment but returned, steady and unwavering. "Then you have to go. I'll be okay, Dad. I trust you."

David's heart ached as he leaned forward, resting his forehead gently against hers. "I promise I'll come back, Pumpkin. No matter what."

Elina, "I know you will Dad. And when you do, don't forget—you owe me ice cream."

David managed a soft chuckle despite the lump in his throat. "I haven't forgotten. We'll make it the biggest sundae ever."

As he kissed her forehead and stood to leave, he paused at the door, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer. Outside, Nurse Pearson was waiting.

"Take care of her," David said, his voice breaking slightly.

The nurse placed a hand on his arm, her expression resolute. "I'll watch over her as if she were my own. You have my word."

David nodded, swallowing the emotions threatening to overwhelm him, and left the hospital.

The next morning James and David arrived at the harbor, David led James toward a weathered vessel docked at the edge, "This was my father's boat," David said, pausing to let the weight of his words settle.

James's eyes widened in admiration as he approached. He ran a hand along the railing, his touch reverent. "A ship like this carries more than just passengers," he said, his voice low. "It carries memories."

David gave a faint nod, his gaze distant, as if lost in the stories the boat could tell.

As James wandered, inspecting every corner of the vessel, the same old coast guard approached from a nearby shack. His face written with smiles of familiarity, "You're setting out then," the old man said, his tone both cautious and warm.

David nodded. "Yes sir, It's time."

The coast guard studied him for a moment before placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "The sea's a cruel teacher, but it rewards those who respect it. May your journey be safe, David."

"Thank you," David replied, his voice steady.

With a lingering glance, the old man stepped back, watching as the two men prepared the vessel.

David climbed aboard and headed for the controls,The engine sputtered to life, rumbling with a force that seemed to echo their resolve.

James gripped the rail, his excitement barely contained. "No turning back now," he said with a grin.

The boat roared as it pulled away from the dock, cutting through the water with unyielding strength. The wind rushed past them, carrying the promise of challenges ahead. Their fate was sealed to the ocean, and the vessel sailed as if nothing could stop it.