Mateus was a troubled and misunderstood young man growing up in Nazare, Portugal. His mischievous ways often earned him looks of suspicion from others that seemed to ask, "What are you going to get into today that you shouldn't?"

The locals would whisper to each other as he walked by, his messy brown hair and bright blue eyes giving him an air of rebelliousness that made them wary.

His father, Eleuterio, was a man of importance, always traveling to Lisbon on business that had ties to the military. Mateus had always felt a sense of pride knowing that his father was involved in something so prestigious, but at the same time, he couldn't help but feel a pang of resentment towards him for never being around.

His mother, Antia, was a kind and gentle soul, working as a seamstress for the local tailor, Abilio. She did her best to keep Mateus in line, but with his father's absence, Mateus was often left to his own devices.

As a result, Mateus had developed a bit of a wild streak. He would often sneak into the local market at night, stealing fruit and sweets from the vendors.

He would climb to the top of the old fort that overlooked the town, feeling like the king of Nazare as he gazed out at the sea. But despite the thrill of his antics, Mateus couldn't shake the feeling that he was meant for something more.

One day, as he was wandering through the town, he stumbled upon a group of men gathered near the docks. They were talking in hushed tones, their faces filled with a sense of excitement and urgency.

Mateus's curiosity was piqued, and he crept closer to listen in. They were discussing a ship that was set to depart from Nazare, bound for the New World. The ship, called the "Sao Pedro", was said to be carrying a cargo of gold, spices, and other precious commodities.

As Mateus listened, a spark of adventure ignited within him. He had always been drawn to the sea, and the thought of sailing to the New World was like a siren's call to him.

He knew that if he could somehow manage to get on board the "Sao Pedro", he would have the opportunity to make a name for himself, to bring honor to his family and his hometown.

Without hesitation, Mateus approached the men and asked if they were looking for any additional crew members. To his surprise, they were, and they agreed to take him on as a deckhand.

Mateus was over the moon with excitement as he rushed home to tell his mother the news. Antia was a mix of emotions, worried about the dangers of the sea, but also proud of her son for taking the initiative to make a change in his life. She helped Mateus pack his bags and said goodbye as he set off towards the docks.

As the "Sao Pedro" set sail, Mateus felt a sense of freedom that he had never experienced before. The wind in his hair, the sun on his face, and the spray of the sea on his skin, he knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be.

The crew was a rough but kind bunch, and they took Mateus under their wing, teaching him the ways of the sea.

As the days turned into weeks, Mateus proved himself to be a valuable member of the crew. He was strong, brave, and eager to learn. The captain, a grizzled old sailor named Joao, took a liking to Mateus and began to mentor him. Mateus learned about navigation, sailing, and the art of leadership.

The journey was not without its challenges, however. The "Sao Pedro" faced treacherous storms, pirate attacks, and disease. But through it all, Mateus persevered, using his wit and cunning to help the crew overcome each obstacle.

Finally, after months at sea, the "Sao Pedro" arrived in the New World. Mateus was awestruck by the beauty and wonder of the new land. He helped the crew to unload the cargo and establish trade with the local inhabitants.

As they prepared to set sail for the return journey, the captain called Mateus to his side. "You have proven yourself to be a true sailor, Mateus," he said, his eyes shining with pride.

"I want you to know that you will be given a share of the profits from this voyage. You will return to Nazare a rich and honored man."

Mateus was overwhelmed with emotion as he thought about the impact this would have on his family and his hometown.

He knew that he would be able to provide for his mother and bring pride to his father. He felt a sense of redemption, knowing that he had turned his life around and was now on a path to greatness.

As the "Sao Pedro" set sail for Nazare, Mateus stood at the bow of the ship, his heart full of joy and his spirit at peace. He knew that he would never forget this journey, and that it would shape him into the man he was meant to be.

The sea had called to him, and he had answered. Now, he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that he had the courage and the determination to overcome them.

THE END