One day, Academician Sergeyev called scientists to an important meeting. They were discussing who to send to search for a man named Vasilyev. This man was the only expert on sea serpents on Earth. He had collected a lot of information about the mysterious creatures from old books and newspapers.
Vasilyev really wanted to find the sea serpent, and no one could replace him. But the scientists understood that it was very dangerous. They decided to send the ship's captain to search. The captain was an experienced deep-sea diver, but he did not believe in the existence of sea serpents.
The scientists explained that Vasilyev could hide in the labyrinths under the water, where he could not be found without a ship. They suggested that the captain go on the search alone.
The captain was surprised, because it was very risky. He knew that in such places one could encounter many dangers. But the scientists insisted, and the captain agreed. Of course, if there had been at least one more expert on sea serpents, the commission could have thought about which of them to send. But there was no choice. It would be too cruel and unfair not to send Vasiliev on an expedition that he deserved more than anyone else in the world. But one way or another, it was too late to discuss why Vasiliev was sent on the expedition.
They said that he would have only one assistant – a research robot. The robot would help him collect information and transmit it to the surface.
The captain knew that he had a difficult and dangerous journey ahead of him. But he was ready to take the risk to find Vasiliev.
I understood what they were thinking. They believed that the Medusa submarine was stuck in a trap underwater and could not be pulled out. So, the passengers needed to be transferred to another boat. Medusa is one of the best deep-sea vehicles. It is designed to explore mountain ranges, narrow canyons and volcanoes. It has no equal in terms of safety. I have swum in the depths and have never seen a fish stuck in an underwater trap. And the latest model of the Medusa is also very sensitive to the environment.
– Who will be Vasiliev's partner? – I asked.
– Titov.
I knew Titov. He is a very calm and balanced person. He always follows all instructions, even if something is happening around him.
– And who will be the leader?
– Vasiliev.
Today I am surprised how they chose these people for the expedition.
– Vasiliev should not have agreed! – I said.
– Why? – Sergeyev was surprised. – He is a specialist.
– But you! – I insisted. Now I shared Salnikov's indignation. – How could you agree?
