After the blood storm had subsided, and the crew had survived both the pirates and the sea, the White Ship sailed slowly, its sails torn, its men exhausted. But despite the wounds, they felt a sense of victory in their hearts.
"We need a safe harbor to repair the ship," Romulus said, scanning the horizon. "The sea won't be merciful if we encounter another storm like this."
Linus nodded, his eyes shining with determination. "We'll find a place. The sea doesn't close all its doors."
And indeed, after two days of sailing, a small island appeared on the horizon, surrounded by a calm bay. It looked empty, but on the shore stood an old wooden hut, smoke billowing from its chimney.
The ship drew near, and the crew disembarked cautiously. As they approached the hut, an old man stepped out, tall despite his hunched back, with thick white hair and deep gray eyes. He carried a wooden cane, but his steps were steady.
Linus paused, feeling something strange in his heart. The man seemed familiar somehow.
The man's voice was hoarse but strong, "Finally... I see a face that looks like Silius."
Linus froze and took a step closer.
"Do you know my father?"
The man smiled and said, "I was his friend in his youth. My name is Antigone. I fought beside him in the first sea battles, before he became king. I never thought I'd see his heir."
Romulus stepped closer, his eyes widening in surprise. "Antigone... I haven't heard from you for decades. I thought you were dead."
The man gave a short laugh. "Many thought so. But I chose to disappear. The sea took more from me than it gave, so I chose solitude."
They all sat down in front of the hut, and Antigone lit a small fire. He offered them water and some simple food. The crew looked at him in admiration, as if they were watching a living legend.
Linus stared at him, "Tell me about my father... What was he like before he became king?"
Antigone replied with a sad smile, "He was a brave young man, fearless. But he was also merciful, leaving no man behind. That's why everyone loved him. But... his strength wasn't just in his sword, but in his ability to unite hearts."
He paused for a moment, then looked into Linus's eyes. "And I see something of that in you."
Linus felt his heart heavier with responsibility. It was no longer just a journey, but a legacy he had to carry.
Romulus said, "Antigone, we are heading for Athens. But the sea is full of enemies: Trunks, Lamor, and merchants who sell secrets. We need your advice."
Antigone sighed and said, "Athens today isn't what it was. After Silius's death, factions have split. Everyone wants the throne. Some plot in secret, others enlist the help of pirates. The road is long, and you won't reach it soon. But that's to your advantage... The longer you wait, the more experience you gain, and the stronger you will be."
Linus approached and said seriously, "Do you know anything about Tronix?"
Antigone replied, "Tronix... is a clever man, but ruthless. He wants the throne not to rule, but to reign. As for Lamor... he is a ghost of the past, seeking only destruction. Both are dangerous, but the greater danger lies within... waiting in Athens itself."
A heavy silence fell. Linus felt the road ahead was longer than he had imagined.
"Take this," Antigone said, slowly rising.
He entered the hut and came out with a small wooden box. He opened it and found an old, hand-drawn map.
"This is a map of secret passages between the islands. We used it in ancient warfare. It will help you avoid pirates and reach places no one knows about."
Linus took it gratefully and said, "I will never forget your kindness."
Antigone smiled and said, "Don't thank me. I thank your father, who taught me that a true leader never dies as long as his children carry on his legacy."
That night, Linus sat by the fire, contemplating the map. He felt the path to Athens clearer, but also heavier. It was no longer just a dream, but a historic responsibility.
He whispered to himself, "I will arrive… but I will arrive prepared."