CHAPTER ELEVEN

THE KILLING OF THE ATTACKER

Rumors of the crocodile's attack on Valeria spread like wildfire across the island. Hearts were heavy with concern, and a sense of urgency weighed on the air. Queen Seraphina, upon hearing the news, summoned her advisors and closest confidantes to discuss a course of action.With her eyes filled with determination, Queen Seraphina addressed her council. "Our land is known for its serenity and unity, but now we face a challenge that threatens that peace. We cannot let fear govern us. We must take action to protect our people and preserve the harmony of our island."One of her advisors, a seasoned explorer named Lord Alistair, spoke up. "Your Highness, I've heard tales of three brave souls—Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan—who have faced danger head-on and emerged victorious. They possess the strength, skill, and camaraderie we need to overcome this threat."Queen Seraphina nodded thoughtfully. "Their reputation precedes them. If they were to join us, their courage and determination might tip the balance in our favor."With the decision made, Queen Seraphina dispatched a messenger to locate the trio and deliver a royal summons. The messenger found them in their cabin, poring over maps and strategizing for their next adventure.The messenger relayed the Queen's urgent request, detailing the near-tragedy that had befallen Valeria and the island. Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan exchanged a glance filled with understanding. Without hesitation, they nodded in agreement, recognizing the magnitude of the situation.The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a silvery glow over the island of Beauty. Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan sat huddled in their cabin, surrounded by maps, dim candlelight, and an air of focused determination. The threat of the crocodile that had recently attacked Valeria, the island's cherished maiden, weighed heavily on their minds. They knew that capturing such a formidable creature required careful planning and an unbreakable spirit."We need to think like the crocodile," Simon mused, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Study its habits, understand its movements. Only then can we predict its actions."Jonathan nodded in agreement, his eyes fixed on the map spread out before them. "And we need to find a way to lure it into a trap. Something that plays to its instincts, but also gives us an advantage."Edwards leaned forward, his hands resting on the table as he looked at his friends. "Our biggest challenge is its size and strength. We'll need a plan that exploits its weaknesses while keeping us safe."The trio began to brainstorm, their minds working in tandem as they pieced together a strategy. Hours turned into minutes, and the cabin's walls seemed to absorb their determination, radiating a palpable sense of purpose.As the night deepened, the room was filled with sketches, notes, and ideas scrawled on parchment. They debated the merits of each approach, considering the risks and rewards of various tactics. Their sleep-deprived minds raced with thoughts, fueled by the urgency of their mission.At one point, Jonathan jumped up from his chair, his eyes alight with inspiration. "What if we set up a decoy? A lifelike effigy of Valeria by the water's edge. The crocodile might be drawn to it, giving us a chance to spring our trap."Edwards nodded in approval. "That could work. We'll need to camouflage ourselves and have a signal for when it's time to strike. And we can't forget about safety measures."Simon sketched out a rough diagram of the plan, adding annotations as he went. "We'll need ropes, nets, and weapons. And we should position ourselves strategically, making sure we're all aware of each other's positions."As the night pressed on, their plan began to take shape, evolving into a cohesive strategy that played to their individual strengths. They discussed the timing of the operation, the layout of the terrain, and how to handle unforeseen challenges.With the first rays of dawn painting the horizon, their plan was finalized. Exhausted but exhilarated, Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan sat back, surveying the fruits of their sleepless night of strategizing."We're ready," Edwards said, a quiet confidence in his voice. "This plan has the best chance of success. Now, let's rest for a few hours, gather our strength, and execute it tomorrow night."The friends nodded in agreement, the weight of the impending mission mixing with the satisfaction of a well-crafted plan. They knew that the safety of their island and the lives of its inhabitants rested on their shoulders, but they were united by a bond of friendship that could overcome any challenge.And so, as the sun bathed the island in its gentle warmth, Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan retired to their makeshift beds, their dreams filled with the determination and resolve that had been forged in the crucible of a sleepless night spent strategizing to capture the crocodile that threatened their home.The night was draped in the rhythm of the night.Before them stood the lifelike effigy of Valeria, a meticulously crafted decoy designed to draw the crocodile out of its lair. Nearby, ropes were coiled, nets were spread out, and weapons were at the ready. They were poised for the decisive moment, knowing that the success of their plan hinged on precision and timing.The stillness was broken by a faint ripple in the water. The crocodile's eyes glinted like lanterns as it cautiously approached the decoy, its massive form revealing itself from the depths. The friends exchanged a glance, their eyes locking in shared determination.Simon, the strategist, raised his hand, signaling the beginning of their synchronized actions. Silently, they moved into position, each member of the trio employing their unique skills.As the crocodile neared the decoy, Jonathan's fingers tightened around a hidden mechanism. Suddenly, the effigy twitched, its head turning with an uncanny lifelike motion. The crocodile's curiosity was piqued, its predatory instincts taking over.With a subtle gesture, Edwards tugged on a rope attached to the decoy, causing it to drift towards the water. The crocodile lunged, its massive jaws snapping shut, but it caught only air. The friends' trap had worked—the crocodile was now entangled in a complex web of ropes and nets.The battle began with a tumultuous splash. The crocodile roared in fury, its tail thrashing as it fought to break free from its restraints. Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan worked with choreographed precision, staying just out of the crocodile's reach as they maneuvered the ropes and tightened the nets.Amid the chaos, Jonathan seized the opportunity. With a skilled throw, he launched a harpoon into the crocodile's hide, the reinforced tip piercing through its thick scales. The crocodile let out a guttural cry, its struggles intensifying.

Edwards, fueled by adrenaline and determination, leaped onto the crocodile's back, a sharp blade in hand. With every ounce of strength he possessed, he plunged the blade into a vulnerable spot just behind its head. The crocodile's movements grew weaker, its thrashes diminishing as its life force ebbed away.Simon, observing the battle's progress, seized a moment of respite. He skillfully tied off the nets and ropes, securing the crocodile's massive body in place. Their trap had become a prison for the once-feared creature.And then, in the stillness of the night, the crocodile's struggles ceased. The moonlight bathed its motionless form, the triumphant breaths of Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan the only sound that broke the silence Their victory was hard-fought and earned through relentless determination. The island had been freed from the threat that had once loomed over it. Edwards wiped sweat from his brow, Simon let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding, and Jonathan stared at the crocodile with a mix of awe and respect.The air was electric with anticipation as Islanders young and old gathered along the shore, their eyes fixed on the horizon. Excitement buzzed through the air like a gentle breeze, carrying whispers of a triumphant return.Far out at sea, a fleet of colorful boats sailed towards the island. In the lead boat stood Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan, their figures silhouetted against the setting sun. And at the rear of the boat, a massive, lifeless form lay draped, its scales glistening even in death—the carcass of the giant crocodile that had once terrorized the island.As the boats neared the shore, the Islanders broke into cheers and applause that echoed across the waves. The rhythmic beating of drums and the cheerful strumming of instruments filled the air, creating a celebratory symphony that seemed to dance along with the swaying palm trees.Valeria, the maiden of Beauty Island, stood at the forefront of the welcoming committee, a wreath of fragrant flowers in her hands. Next to her stood Queen Seraphina, a regal figure known for her wisdom and grace. The Queen had heard of the triumphant return of Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan and had decided to personally welcome them to the island.As the boats docked, the Islanders rushed forward to help secure them, their faces filled with admiration and gratitude. The moment had finally arrived—the heroes were home.With a flourish of trumpets and a shower of flower petals, Queen Seraphina stepped forward. "Welcome, brave souls, to the shores of Beauty Island!" Her voice carried authority and warmth, a reflection of her status as both a ruler and a beloved leader.Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan stepped off the boat, their eyes bright and their shoulders squared. They exchanged a proud glance among themselves before turning their attention to the Queen and Valeria.Queen Seraphina continued, her voice ringing out with pride, "Your valor and determination have brought safety to our island and peace to our hearts. We honor your courage and recognize your unwavering commitment to our people."

Valeria stepped forward, her smile radiant as she held out the wreath of flowers. One by one, she placed it around the neck of each hero. "With this wreath, we offer our deepest gratitude," she said, her voice carrying the weight of the island's appreciation.The Islanders erupted into applause once again, their cheers echoing through the air. Music filled the atmosphere, and a procession began, leading Edwards, Simon, and Jonathan through the heart of the village. Banners flew high, displaying images of the heroes and the defeated crocodile, a testament to their victory.