Chapter 2: Shadows in the Depths
The Sea Guardian tightened their grip on the glowing trident, the ancient map clasped securely in their other hand. The water around them grew heavier, a tangible pressure signaling the approach of danger. The shadowy figure, massive and menacing, circled slowly, its red eyes piercing through the darkness.
This creature was no ordinary hunter. It was Abyssal Marauder, a guardian of the lost city, cursed to attack anyone who dared approach Avaris. Its elongated, eel-like body shimmered with dark, iridescent scales that reflected the faint bioluminescence of the ocean depths.
The Sea Guardian steadied their breath and positioned the trident in front of them. The Marauder lunged forward, its razor-sharp fins slicing through the water. With a swift motion, the Guardian deflected the attack, the clash sending ripples through the sea. The glow from the trident lit up the surroundings, revealing the Marauder’s scarred body, each mark telling tales of ancient battles.
As the fight raged on, the Guardian realized brute strength wouldn’t be enough to defeat the creature. They channeled their connection to the ocean’s energy, summoning a torrent of water to create a vortex. The Marauder struggled, caught in the swirling current, but its ferocity only grew.
Then, the Guardian noticed something—a faint, pulsating light embedded in the Marauder’s chest. It was the source of its curse. With precision, the Sea Guardian leaped through the water, dodging a powerful tail swipe, and aimed the trident directly at the glowing mark.
The moment the trident struck, the light shattered, and the Marauder let out a deafening roar. Its body convulsed, then went still. Slowly, the creature’s dark form began to fade, leaving behind a shimmering essence. The Sea Guardian felt a surge of gratitude from the freed spirit before it dissolved into the water.
The way forward was clear now, and the Sea Guardian followed the map’s glowing path deeper into the ocean. The pressure increased, and the light from their trident became the only guide.
Suddenly, the map projected an image: the silhouette of a grand city surrounded by golden domes and towering spires. Avaris was close, but so were its mysteries—and its dangers.
To be continued...
