Wordsmiths Fiction Week 1: The Disappeared Leader

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John noticed the captain was missing from the cabin and wondered if he left with the boat or if someone took him. He questioned where the captain could have gone since he hadn't mentioned leaving. They all slept together the night before, so his absence was puzzling. Andrew, the second in command, suggested they search for the captain immediately instead of waiting.

He proposed they start from a specific point in hopes of finding him. However, there was doubt about the captain's whereabouts, and Andrew emphasized the importance of continuing the search. He assigned three members to check the other side while instructing everyone to stay together, as they lacked working equipment and their radio was down. If we don't find the captain, we are not leaving.

After searching for a few days, they lost hope of seeing the captain again and started to worry. Suddenly, one of them used a telescope and spotted boats full of people heading their way.

Hey! It looks like the captain has been rescued. I see a group in a boat coming our way. Yes, I can see them, said Andrew, the second in command. What if they are just a rescue team without the captain? If they arrive, we can inform them about our captain's disappearance, and maybe they will help us search for him. Or what if they are just passersby? Well, we will find out when they get here, said Andrew. Meanwhile, let's not forget that we are looking for our captain.

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As the boat got closer, one of them spotted the captain on board. It's the captain! Everyone gather around, he is back! And he has returned with some people in another boat. They were all thrilled to see their captain, along with the three members who went searching and some rescuers. They cheered and asked the captain why he didn't inform anyone before leaving. You worried us! We searched everywhere for you but couldn't find you. So, what happened? The captain began to explain:

First, I want to apologize to all of you. I'm sorry. Next time, I will let you know where I'm going so you won't be anxious. As we decided to rest for the night, I went to look for help because we were already trapped. As a captain, I can't just sit back and watch while we are stuck, so I knew I had to find help, especially since I was concerned about our situation.

While everyone was sleeping, I took the second boat so I wouldn't disturb anyone. I paddled quickly to get help before sunset. I was alone until I saw some people in a boat coming towards me, and I waved my shirt to get their attention. I was sure they would come to help me. When they waved back, I felt relieved and waited for them to reach me.

I paddled my boat while they followed. On our way back, we ran into Joe, Elvis, and Dan, (the three men sent to search for the captain). They jumped into the boat, and we continued our journey. I went to find help, and I succeeded. Now we can all get in the boat and keep going. The captain said he was glad everyone was safe.

The captain returned at last, although his people never gave up. I believe their faith brought him back.