AVIONA'S POV
The moment Thalassa spoke the word, every one of us—except the sea nymphs—seemed to stop breathing. Even the water felt tighter around my ribs.
I knew they existed, of course. I’d read about them, heard stories whispered by the older sea folk. But I never imagined I would see one in my lifetime—or, worse, witness it being summoned.
They were ancient, terrible creatures, dwelling in the deepest trenches, quiet and withdrawn… until provoked. And colossal—so massive they could swallow an entire ship whole.
I swallowed hard, the taste of fear sharp on my tongue.
Thalassa, Naida, and Coralyn joined hands, their fingers intertwining as they closed their eyes. Power stirred around them, a soft hum vibrating through the water.
But before the magic could fully gather, Coralyn let
