And so the preparations for the treasure expedition to Old Crab Island were in full swing. Even Jack, who had initially been vehemently opposed to the idea, volunteered. “I’ll be more useful there than here!” he said sarcastically, but he immediately began helping with the supply arrangements.
The City Council and the Harbormaster were frantically busy with the final preparations, gathering supplies, tools, and even protective armor for the drones.
Among the cats, word was already circulating that the ship was ready to sail, the sails creaking, eagerly awaiting the order to sail.

The heart of the city was buzzing - everyone who heard about the expedition wanted to be a part of it. Almost half the town volunteered to join George. Felinopolis had always craved adventure, and every expedition in George's family - even now, a generation later - was an event of historic proportions.
Finally, after a long selection process, ten brave souls were chosen to accompany the main crew.
Max, despite his young age, couldn't help but think that he wanted to sail too - he felt that the expedition would be incomplete without him.

    Meanwhile, in George's house, the atmosphere was completely different. VMax family gathered in the room, clearly moved and full of emotions. Although Lilly was usually rather calm, now she was furious.

- I understand that father is involved in this matter, but why are you, Olivier? - Lilly had been trying to talk some sense into her husband for several days now. - Why do you want to risk yourself? Do you really have to go? You have a family, what if you don't come back from this expedition? - Fear feel in her voice. - Tell me, how are we supposed to live here if you're gone?

Olivier sighed, clearly tired of his wife's constant objections. Although he himself had doubts, he felt that this expedition was part of something bigger.

- Lilly, why do you always assume the worst? - he replied, trying to stay calm. – We are sailing with a highly trained crew, and my father knows pirates like no one else. I trust him completely. If he decided we had to sail, then it was necessary.

Max listened to every word with bated breath. On the one hand, he understood his mother's concerns – her voice was full of concern, but Max's heart was beating faster and faster. With every word his father said, his desire to join the expedition grew. However, it was more than just a need for adventure – he felt that if he didn't decide, he would miss something really great.

However, he had a great challenge ahead of him: how to get on the ship and avoid punishment. Hiding on board was one thing, but surviving such a long journey in secret... Max tried to find the best way to hide somewhere on the ship – preferably in supply crates or in hatches that the crew rarely looked into. He knew that he would have to act quickly and discreetly when the opportunity arose.

Thoughts were racing in his head, and joy was mixed with anxiety. He also felt a weight in his heart – he knew he would break his word to his mother, but he couldn’t resist the inner voice that tempted him with the promise of adventure. He imagined himself on the stormy waves, his hand on the tiller, facing Lame Joe.

George didn’t look happy about the whole situation. He knew the expedition was risky, and its organization had caused a lot of controversy in the Council, but what he had to announce now made him feel the burden of responsibility. He took a deep breath, then said:

- There’s one more thing. The City Council has decided that we’re sailing… tomorrow.

Lilly’s eyes widened with fear. She was suprised, trying to digest the sudden acceleration of plans. Olivier was clearly surprised too.

- Tomorrow?! - he exclaimed, not hiding his surprise. - Why are you only saying this now? This is crazy! - His voice was a mixture of nervousness and excitement.

- I found out an hour ago. - George replied with a heavy sigh. - We didn’t have much time to plan anything. But waiting for a better time is simply too dangerous now.

- Then I must begin preparations immediately. - Olivier glanced at George and Lilly once more, then turned on his heel and quickly walked to his office, leaving Lilly and George in the hallway.

    Meanwhile, Max stood slightly to the side, watching his parents and grandfather. Every word they said gave him more certainty that his decision was the right one. He already had a plan in mind - a plan that would ensure his place on board, even if it meant hiding in the most forgotten corner of the ship.

To be continued.....😻

*If you like the VMax Cats Family share this post with your friends, maybe they will like it too. Thank you for all the nice comments I have received from you so far. I really appreciate it ❤