[b]Observation Deck[/b]
"I highly doubt that we will find any dragons or sea serpents, but I am certain that there will be creatures that are dangerous enough to be considered monstrous. The Dark Continent has lions and spotted cats, rhinos and elephants, hippos and crocodiles, all of which terrified the Greeks and Romans. The West has coyotes and mountain lions. The Rockies and northern states have wolves and bears. The south has alligators. The Raj has Tigers. From what I heard, the wilderness of Australia is full of creatures deadlier than any I have mentioned. However, such beasts ain't invincible. They can be killed. The larger ones are hunted by those with the bravery and skill to pursue such trophies. I wouldn't be surprised if some of the men who signed on with this expedition do so for that exact reason. As for keepin' a piece of iron in reach, I brought a pistol. Nobody visits an undiscovered and untamed land without bringin' a weapon in case they encounter hostile natives." Michael Gibbs said to Cal as he pulled out his Colt Army Single Action Army, light reflecting off the part of the pearl handle. "I also have a Bore 4 Bore and the ammo for it in my cabin. What? I grew up on a farm on the frontier. My father taught me that the wild animals are more dangerous than the most vicious of outlaws, same as my brothers. I have not forgotten that lesson and have spent some of my hard-earned money on a gun powerful enough to stop a chargin' elephant so that I can protect myself from any of the monstrous beasts said to live on the lost continent." Michael Gibbs added. 

[b]Dining Area[/b]
Jacob Gibbs continued eating his steak and drinking his whiskey as his older brother talked to the Australian. "Sounds like my brother is meetin' with some other members of this expedition. I wouldn't be surprised if he mentioned that elephant gun he bought. Been a while since he shot anythin' larger than a six-shooter and that thing is heavier than the rifles dad used to teach us. It probably has more kick than a mule." Jacob said to himself before taking another bite.