Dawn spilled gold across the restless sea, the first light catching on the waves as if the ocean itself was holding its breath. The village still slept, but Lyra and Ethan stood at the shore, cloaks drawn tight, hearts steadying for a journey that could change everything.

Miraen joined them, her staff faintly aglow in the dim morning haze. “The path to the Abyssal Library lies beneath the waves,” she said softly. “You’ll need more than courage. The sea keeps its secrets, and not all ...