The sea shimmered with the first light of dawn. From the east, the rising sun painted the waves gold, scattering ripples of fire across the horizon.
Above the waters, a dragon roared. Zuzia's massive form exhaled torrents of dragon breath, scorching the sea's surface. The Red Skulls, once united as a monstrous serpent, had already broken apart. Dozens— no, hundreds— of crimson skulls scattered like startled fish, plunging into the depths.
Zuzia dived after them, her massive body slicing through the water. Yet no matter how fast she swam, the scattered skulls swam even faster, darting into darkness, dispersing in all directions. Within moments, they vanished completely.
"They're gone," Lily said, her voice low but certain. She stood at the ship's railing, her eyes following the empty waves. "They split themselves too thin. We could chase one cluster, but it won't matter. We'll find nothing."
The Temptress turned her gaze toward Tyler, who is just returning.
