Departure

Maris is standing at the control desk of her sleek, modern ship, her heart pounding with excitement and anticipation.
The vessel is a masterpiece of engineering, equipped with the latest navigational technology and powerful engines that could propel her across the seas at incredible speeds.

Ever since her older brother Kai left their village in search of adventure, her passion for exploration has only grown.
She spent years learning about navigation and the world beyond the Fruit Coast.
After fulfilling her duties and helping the people of her village she visited the library almost every day.

Though Kai had never returned, Maris held onto the stories he had told her about the exotic lands he had visited and the incredible sights he had witnessed.

Maris still has no idea what happened to him.
Did he manage to cross the border of the known world and reach the outside world?
Is he even still alive?

Maris doesn't know, but it doesn't seem that important to her.
Whatever the answer to these questions is, Maris wouldn't change her mind.

Determined to follow in his footsteps, Maris devoted herself to the study of navigation and cartography.
She spent countless hours poring over ancient maps and texts, learning about the various sea routes and the dangerous hazards that a seafarer has to deal with.

As she improved her skills, she began to dream of the day when she would set sail and venture out into the unknown, just like her brother had done.

In the years that followed, Maris became a respected member of her community, known for her knowledge of the world and her determination to explore it.
She became a strong young woman, who would never give up.

She shared her dreams with her best friend, Cian, who had always been by her side.
Cian is only a few years older than her. But he might come across as if he was around her age.
After her brother set off forever he has become the only person she would spend some spare time with.
And as her best friend she obivously has told him a lot about her dreams.

Though initially skeptical of her plans, he soon shared her excitement and began helping her prepare for her journey.
When Cian knew he would help her, he spared no expense in acquiring this quality ship. Maris is truly grateful for this generous gift, which will allow her to explore the vast world beyond her island.

Cian consulted the best shipbuilders in the known world, searching for the best materials and technologies to ensure that the ship would be the safest and most advanced vessel on the seas.
And the entire village helped him afford this ship.

It's not huge, but large enough to fit in not only the two of them, but a whole crew.
There are four small bedrooms, each designed for two people.
And if she wanted to, she could probably fit in more people.

Before she entered the ship, many people she knows even gave her some fruits or special meals for their journey.

As Maris is standing on her ship, ready to departure, Cian gives her a hug, tears in his eyes.

Why are you crying?
Are you scared of leaving? You don't have to. I'll be able to protect you.
Or...

Maris realizes her misconception.

Did you really think I would join you?
I can't leave this place. I like it here. The people need me.

Oh, then I guess it's time to say goodbye...

Maris hugs him again. She almost doesn't want to let him go.

In that case, I'll name the ship after you.
Without your help I wouldn't have this ship.
My new ship Cian. Or even better. The Light of Cian.
What do you think of it?

You would do that for me?

Cian starts to cry.

Of course. You are my best friend after all.
So you like it?

Yeah, Light sounds great to me.

Maris lets go of Cian, trying to focus.
It's time to set off.

So now it's really time to leave.

Now that it's getting serious, Cian is getting a little concerned. He knows how dangerous her adventure could be.
But he knows that after all these years, he wouldn't be able to change her mind anymore.
Maris is determined to leave and put her knowledge to use.

I hope to see you again when you have reached your goal!
So... goodbye... for real...

Maris has to hold back her tears.
With a heavy heart Cian finally leaves the ship.
Now there's nothing holding Maris back anymore.

Full of excitement and anticipation, Maris is determined to set off on her own now to explore the world beyond the Fruit Coast and uncover its secrets, just like her brother did.
It doesn't take long until Maris sets off on her own, leaving behind the safety of the familiar and stepping into the unknown parts of the world.

As Maris is steering her ship away from the shore, Maris is amazed about the craftsmanship that had gone into this ship.
The vessel was a masterpiece of engineering, with advanced systems that allowed her to navigate with pinpoint accuracy and maintain a constant awareness against potential threats.

The hull of the ship has been reinforced with the strongest materials, ensuring that it could withstand even the roughest seas.
Cian and the other villagers really had spared no expense in acquiring this ship, knowing that it would be the key to her success.

As Maris sets course for her first destination, she can't help but feel a sense of awe at the power and grace of her ship.
With a determined smile, she steered her ship into the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

Maris takes out the wooden box her brother Kai gave her years ago when he left and looks at it.
He said she would know when it was time to open it.
Has that time arrived?

But as she looks at the beautiful box, she decides to wait.
She doesn't know when the time will come.
Maybe when she has a crew. Maybe when she reaches the outside world.
All she knows is that she still has to wait.