THE CROSSING

part 3

"I've heard about your exhibition and the journey you've embarked on. I think I have something that might interest you," Mr. John said, holding up an old envelope.

Thomas, surprised and excited, invited him in. He opened the envelope to find more maps and documents inside.

Mr. John replied: “The maps are old, they tell stories of other places full of secrets inside and outside the city.”

“These maps lead to places with untold stories, inside and outside the city,” said Mr. John, his voice heavy with riddles.

Curiosity and excitement lit Thomas' eyes. "But why me?" He asked, puzzled by the precious gift that had found its way to him.

“Because you have been able to see beauty and stories in what others consider ordinary places,” Mr. John replied. “You have the ability to bring history to life and share it with the world,” Mr. John added seriously before saying with good humor, “Plus, the world needs more storytellers.” " After Sir John left, Thomas stood there, contemplating

Maps and documents are displayed in front of him. He realized that his journey was not supposed to end with the completion of his book; It was the beginning of a new chapter, extending beyond the city limits and into the wider world.

The excitement coursing through him was mixed with fear of the unknown, but he knew that every step of this journey would allow him to live the life he had always dreamed of. With this realization, Thomas began planning his next adventure, driven by hope and a passion to discover forgotten stories and bring them back to life.

Thomas sat in his room, surrounded by the maps and documents Sir John had given him. Every document held a secret, every map hinted at a possible adventure. He felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness, but he knew he couldn't embark on this adventure alone

He decided to call Natalie, who had always been a source of support and inspiration for him.

"Thomas,

Mr. John came by an hour ago natalia and gave me an old envelope with maps and documents. Can you believe these maps could be our gateway to discoveries no one has known before?" Thomas began excitedly over the phone.

"Thomas, I know you're capable of turning myths into reality. Tell me, what's your plan?" Natalie replied in an encouraging tone.

"I want us to embark on a journey, not just to discover the places marked on these maps, but to narrate their stories to the world. Will you accompany me on this adventure as well?" Thomas asked hopefully.

"Of course, Thomas. There's nothing I'd treasure more than being part of such an endeavor," Natalie replied warmly.

"I'll join these adventures by your side," Natalie affirmed, her voice reflecting the excitement she felt.

"But I believe this time will be different. I found places on the maps like ancient castles and caves. This time might involve a bit more risk," Thomas said seriously.

"Don't worry, we'll face any danger together," Natalie exclaimed reassuringly, trying to comfort and support him.

"Thank you, Natalie, for always being there for me," Thomas continued. "But this time, it won't just be us and Lillian. I'll reach out to some of my old friends who are familiar with ancient manuscripts. They might be able to help us."

"Alright, that sounds good. Talk to them and let me know of any updates," Natalie said before hanging up the phone to prepare her bag, ready for the new adventure.

Thomas called his friend Sam and Nancy, arranging to meet them in the evening.

Thomas agreed with his friends to meet at a local café they preferred. This place had a special charm with its walls adorned with contemporary art paintings and comfortable sofas inviting people to sit and relax for hours.

Sam and Nancy, his friends from university, were waiting for him. Sam, a software engineer, was known for his intelligence and technical skills, while Nancy, a historian with extensive experience in ancient places, had a great sense of humor and an ability to narrate stories in an engaging way.

"Finally, you made it!" Nancy teased, "We almost thought you forgot your way here."

"No, how could I forget? I've missed you both so much; it's been a long time since we last met," Thomas replied as he sat beside them.

"Of course, each of us has work and plans that take up all our time. Anyway, tell us, what's the news?" Sam asked, signaling to the waiter to take their orders.

They began exchanging stories and laughs. Nancy recounted exciting incidents that happened during her recent research, while Sam shared his latest innovations in programming. Meanwhile, Thomas listened to them and shared his recent adventures and the book he had started writing, contributing with laughter and comments, appreciating these simple moments that made him forget everything else.

Amidst their conversation, Thomas told them about the maps and manuscripts he had obtained and his desire to embark on a new adventure.

"An adventure and maps? You've piqued my curiosity! Let me see these manuscripts," Nancy exclaimed eagerly, leaning forward.

"She's not with me right now, but I believe it's a journey to a special place we've never thought of before. This is my passion that sometimes reignites within me... It's something that makes me feel alive again. I've spent my life in a job I hated, one of the toughest times of my life, but I've gotten rid of it and started my exploratory journey," Amir replied dreamily.

"I think it's a fantastic idea! You know, my technical skills might benefit you on your journey. Maybe with an app or a tracking system specific to your adventure," Sam said, getting excited about the idea.

"And I can help you interpret the manuscripts and teach you ancient languages! Or even remotely support you during your travels," Nancy added, her enthusiasm shining through.

Thomas, influenced by his friends' excitement, felt that the adventure team was beginning to form, and his friends were eager to join him on it."Wonderful! It means I've already started my adventure while still being here."

"Exactly!" Sam said, patting Thomas on the shoulder. "Who knows, maybe this adventure is the beginning of something great in your life."

"But remember, whatever happens, we're here for you. We'll support you every step of the way," Nancy said sincerely, making Thomas feel grateful for having friends like them in his life.

"But Thomas, are these places safe to visit? You know many ancient secrets lead to peril," Sam said, his tone serious.

"I understand the risks I'll be facing, but I need to discover myself and prove that I can do anything, no matter how dangerous. This is an exceptional turning point for me,"

Thomas replied earnestly.

The conversation then shifted to practical planning for the adventure, as they began discussing potential destinations, the tools Thomas might need, and how each of them could contribute their unique skills. Laughter and ideas filled the air, infusing the place with a spirit of adventure and challenge.

"What do you think you'll find, a magical dungeon with countless treasures or a genie granting wishes?" Sam asked, sketching virtual maps in the air with his hand.

"Or perhaps discovering an ancient tomb dating back centuries. That would be both an adventure and a learning experience," Nancy added, envisioning the stories Thomas could gather from these experiences.

By the end of the night, Thomas was filled with inspiration and excitement to begin his journey. He knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but with the support of his friends, he felt he could face any challenge.

"Thank you both, my friends. I don't know what I would do without you," Thomas said, embracing Sam and Nancy.

"Always by your side, Thomas. Just remember to tell us every detail when you return!" Nancy said with a smile.

As they prepared to leave the café, Sam paused for a moment.