It was 6:00 pm when the four MAB 32/44CR diesel engines powered up, alerting Fortaleza Port harbor personnel and the Harbor Master of its intention to move its cargo to the harbor entrance at the eastern harbor exit. This hum of the engines offered a quietattitude that signaled the beginning of our unforgettable journey, where the evening breeze carried whispers of adventure and romance.

From our perch on the 7th Level balcony, Diane and I leaned over the railing, the warmth of the Brazilian summer enveloping us. The sky transformed into a canvas painted with deep indigos and brilliant gold as the last remnants of daylight surrendered to night. Constellations of the Southern Hemisphere flickered to life, and planets like Venus and Mercury shone brightly, almost as if they were heralding our embarkation to Belem, Brazil.
 
The atmosphere was electric. Passengers gathered on the promenades, anticipation thickening around us like the humidity that clung to our skin. Despite the oppressive heat, we felt invigorated, buoyed by the promise of new experiences.

We had accepted the Captain’s invitation to dine at the renowned Chef’s Table—a culinary event spoken of with reverence, where exquisite dishes and enchanting stories are woven together. As we entered the grand dining room, fragrant aromas greeted us, mingling with the laughter and chatter of fellow voyagers. The lavishly adorned table beckoned with vibrant dishes and sparkling glasses filled with chilled wine. Bergstrom was not just a captain but a storyteller who animated every tale excitedly about his travels across the seas.

“Tonight, you’ll not only feast on fine food but also on the stories of these waters,” Bergstrom announced, his voice resonating warmly. He recounted his historical voyages, fabled treasures hidden beneath ocean waves, and encounters with exotic cultures on the Amazon River and beyond.  This was a memorable evening for a story to be told in our sequel, “Stories for Our Children.”