Mini Brain Dumps

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Trigger Warning: This novel contains references to sexual assault and mental health disorders. Reader discretion is advised.

Chapter 23:

As Cate and Quentin approached the entrance to the Mermaid Grotto, they were met by a graceful figure gliding through the water towards them. The cloaked figure wore light blue robes, those of the guardians of the ocean according to Elysia. Quentin was reminded of those worn by the council members, but this robe had different patterns woven into the fabric.

They moved with a grace that seemed to defy the ocean’s currents. Their scales, a mesmerizing blend of orange and reds, caught the ambient light, casting a soft, ethereal glow in the darkness. Each scale was perfectly formed, overlapping like delicate petals on a flower. Long, flowing black hair trailed behind them, adorned with strands of seaweed and coral, adorned with colorful beads and seashells. Their features exuded an air of regal elegance, with high cheekbones and full lips.

“Welcome, travelers,” the mermaid greeted them, their voice carrying a melodic cadence that seemed to dance through the water. “I am Sera, guardian of the Grotto. I will be your guide through these enchanted waters.”

“Hello, it is nice to meet you,” Cate said, approaching Sera and extending her hand. Sera slid her hand into Cate’s firmly. “I am Cate, and this is Quentin.”

Sera turned, leading them into the grotto. As they approached, Quentin noticed a shimmering wall appear in front of them, but Sera continued passing through it without any notice. Quentin hesitated before following suit, feeling a tingle run over his skin as he passed through the glittering wall.

“What was that?” he asked.

“That was our protective wards. They help to protect us from animals that might end up stumbling upon the grotto, or…” she cast a glance back at them over her shoulder, “outsiders.”

Quentin swallowed hard, averting his gaze from Sera’s piercing stare.

As they continued through the grotto his gaze lingered on the other townspeople, noticing their curious stares and whispered conversations. Sera introduced Cate and Quentin to some of the townspeople as they passed. Each of the merfolk greeted them with polite nods and smiles, though Quentin couldn’t help but feel like they were being scrutinized.

“This is Marina,” Sera said, gesturing to a mermaid with shimmering blue scales and long dark hair. “She’s one of our healers.”

Marina smiled warmly at them. “It’s a pleasure to meet you both,” she said, her voice like a soothing balm. “If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Cate returned Marina’s smile before they continued their tour. Despite his initial apprehensions, the more he saw of the other merfolk, the more at ease he felt.
Sera guided them through winding passages and shimmering chambers, pointing out various features of the grotto and sharing stories.

As they swam deeper into the cavernous passages, Sera pointed out various features of the grotto, each infused with its own magical essence. “These glowing crystals provide illumination magic,” she explained, gesturing to the crystals that lined the walls. “They not only light our path but also nourish the marine life within.”

Cate marveled at the sight, reaching out to touch one of the crystals. As her fingers brushed against its smooth surface, she felt a faint, tingling sensation, as if the crystal itself was alive.

“Temperature control spells maintain the perfect climate for our inhabitants,” Sera continued, drawing their attention to the comfortable warmth of the water around them. “It ensures that our ecosystem thrives, even in the depths of the ocean.”

Quentin glanced around, taking in the abundance of marine life that flourished in the grotto’s waters. “It’s incredible how everything seems to coexist in harmony.”

Sera nodded in agreement. “Indeed, the balance of life here is delicate yet resilient.”

“The Grotto is beautiful,” Cate remarked, her eyes scanning the vibrant hues of the underwater landscape.

Cate furrowed her brow, a question lingering on her lips. “But why is the Grotto so far from the surface?”

Sera’s gaze softened, a hint of sadness in her eyes. “We were originally just outside Seidonis, but with being so close the surface we found that our hatcheries and nurseries were vulnerable to attack of large predators. The first shark attack was devastating, a lot of people starved because there wasn’t enough food… I wish it didn’t have to be this way, but here, in the depths, we are far away from the surface. Sharks, and other creatures, rarely venture down here, and if they do they tend to be smaller and easier to manage. We are safe here,” she explained, almost as if she were trying to convince herself more than us. “And with the dark and cold environment, we are able to manipulate the grotto’s magic to provide the perfect environment for our flora and fauna to thrive.”

“You don’t like it here?” Quentin asked.

Sera sighed. “It’s not all bad here. The magic we use makes it far easier to manage, but I do miss the light, the real light. And the warmth of the sun touching my skin.”

“Do you ever get to leave?” Cate inquired.

Sera shook her head. “I do. Just not as often as I would like. The sun has a way of making everything feel alright,” Sera admitted, her gaze distant. “But my duty as guardian keeps me here.” She shook her head as if to clear the intrusion of thoughts from her mind.

As they reached the edge of the grotto, Quentin found himself face to face with another shimmering barrier. Sera stopped short of the ward and turned to face them, putting her hands behind her back as she straightened her shoulders. “I’m sure you’re aware of the disturbances within the grotto,” Sera stated.

Cate and Quentin nodded in acknowledgment, their brows furrowing with concern. They had been briefed by the council about the disruptions, but the exact nature of these disturbances remained elusive.

“We’ve heard about them,” Cate replied. “But what exactly are we dealing with here?”
Sera paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully before responding. “The disturbances manifest in various forms,” she stated. “Unexplained shifts in the currents, fluctuations in temperature, and sightings of unfamiliar creatures lurking in the depths.”
Quentin’s eyes widened with intrigue as he absorbed Sera’s words. “So, it’s not just one thing,” he remarked, his voice filled with apprehension.

Sera shook her head. “No, it seems to be a combination of factors,” she confirmed. “And whatever the cause, it poses a threat to the stability of the grotto and the safety of its inhabitants.”

As Sera spoke, a sense of unease settled over Quentin and Cate. They exchanged worried glances, realizing the gravity of the situation they were facing.

“What can we do to help?” Cate asked, her voice tinged with determination.

Sera’s gaze softened, appreciating their willingness to aid the grotto in its time of need. “Your presence alone is a comfort to us,” she began. “But there is more you can do. The disturbances seem to be centered around the ancient ruins deep within the grotto.”

Quentin’s eyes widened. “Ruins?”

Sera nodded solemnly. “They hold great significance to our people and are responsible for the balance of magic within the grotto. Without them,” she held her arms wide, “none of this would exist.”

Quentin and Cate exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They would figure out what was going on. And whatever it was, they would face it. Together.

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