The dawn of the Inner Core Disciples Selections arrived with an air of palpable anticipation that permeated the Vorteesi sect.
The entire sect was abuzz with activity, the vibrant banners fluttering in the currents, and the pavilions adorned with intricate seaweed and coral decorations.
The selection event was not just a test of skill but a grand celebration, marking the ascension of the most promising Mer into the prestigious Inner Core.
Nereus awoke early, the tension of the upcoming trials weighing lightly on his mind.
He had spent the previous night cultivating, refining his control over the King Coralstacean Living Armor and the Mantis Shrimp Blows Aqua Art.
The breakthrough to the Reef Master level had given him a significant boost in power, and he knew that his matriculation through the competition was all but assured at this point.
As he prepared, his mind wandered to the events of the past week—the brutal ambush, the evolution of his sea wraiths, and the relentless training that had honed his skills to a razor's edge.
Jonny and Triton met him outside their quarters, their expressions a mix of excitement and nerves. Jonny had a newfound confidence, his Wave Ruler level and mastery of Sea Construct: Shark evident in his demeanor.
Triton, too, exuded a quiet determination, his recent advancements giving him the strength and agility needed to face the trials ahead.
The Grand Pavilion was the jewel of the Vorteesi sect, situated at the heart of the underwater city. It stood tall and proud, a testament to the grandeur and history of the sect.
The Pavilion was used for major events, ceremonies, and gatherings, making it the perfect venue for the pre-selection celebration.
The dome-like structure was adorned with bioluminescent corals and intricate carvings depicting legendary battles and the sect's storied past. Today, it was transformed into a magnificent celebration hall.
As Nereus, Jonny, and Triton approached the Pavilion, they swam through the bustling streets, filled with excitement and anticipation.
The pathway to the Pavilion was lined with colorful banners and floating lanterns, illuminating the way with a soft, ethereal glow. The trio could hear the distant sound of music and laughter, growing louder as they neared the entrance.
Nereus took in the sights with a sense of calm determination.
Jonny, on the other hand, couldn't help but grin widely, his new appearance drawing admiring glances from passersby. Triton remained composed, but there was a spark of determination in his eyes.
As they entered the Pavilion, the grandeur of the interior took their breath away.
The hall was filled with luminescent flora and fauna, casting a magical glow that accentuated the festive decorations. The ceiling was high, giving an open and airy feel, and was adorned with shimmering sea crystals and pearls that reflected the light beautifully.
They were not the only ones attending. The gathering was filled with notable figures, including the influential and powerful members of the sect.
Among them was Liander Earendil, Triton's estranged father, who stood with a group of elders, exuding an air of haughtiness. His eyes met Triton's for a brief moment, with a gaze that was filled with curiosity and an emotion that was hard to discern.
Nereus noticed the interaction and placed a reassuring hand on Triton's shoulder. "Remember why you're here," he said quietly. Triton nodded, his resolve strengthening.
Near the front of the hall, Anastasia Cyrex, known for her icy beauty, stood beside her father, Kano Vorteesi.
Her presence was as chilling as her demeanor, and she observed the gathering with a cold, calculating expression. Her pale snow white hair flowed around her, and her piercing blue eyes seemed to see through everyone.
Beatrix Cyrex Vorteesi, Kano's wife and a figure of regal elegance, stepped forward to address the gathering.
She was an icy beauty with long flowing white hair that matched the pearlescent scales on her majestic tail, her demeanor commanded respect and attention from all who watched her.
"Welcome, everyone, to this year's pre-selection gathering," she began, her voice resonating through the Pavilion. "This event is a tradition where we honor our potential Inner Core disciples and recognize the importance of the trials ahead."
She paused, letting her gaze sweep over the crowd. "The Inner Core is the backbone of our sect, and only the most dedicated, powerful, and honorable Mer will join its ranks. I expect nothing less than your best."
Beatrix's voice was firm and authoritative, setting the tone for the event. "Now, let us celebrate our heritage and the strength of our sect with performances that showcase our culture and traditions."
The lights dimmed slightly as the first performance began.
A group of young mermaids took the stage, their movements fluid and graceful. They performed a traditional dance, weaving intricate patterns with luminescent ribbons.
The audience watched in awe as the ribbons glowed brightly, creating mesmerizing shapes in the water.
Nereus, Jonny, and Triton stood near the front, captivated by the performance.
The dance told a story of ancient times, of battles fought and alliances forged. It was a reminder of the rich history and the sacrifices made by their ancestors.
As the dance concluded, the crowd erupted in applause. Next, a troupe of mermen warriors demonstrated their martial prowess.
They performed a series of combat maneuvers, showcasing their strength and agility. Their synchronized movements were a testament to their training and discipline.
Among the spectators was Devin Caerule, the older brother of Dante Caerule, who watched with a keen eye.
His presence was imposing, and his reputation for ruthlessness preceded him.
Devin and Devran Caerule were both planning to participate in the Inner Core Disciples Selections, adding another layer of tension to the event.
As the performances continued, a few figures swimming nearby together caught Nereus's and most of the other guests eye.
Though he recognized them from Argent's memories as resident elite Inner Core Disciples that were well know throughout the Vorteesi Sect, the aura and presence they were giving off alone were enough to recognize them as such.
The first and strongest of the three, named Thalor Legulus, was also the most inconspicuous despite his fame. He remained somewhat in the background, his sharp icy gray eyes observing everything with the precision of an expert.
He was known for his so far unmatched Sealocke battle prowess and was currently even rumored to be engaged to the sect head's daughter Anastasia.
He wore armor, a mix of natural scales and forged metal, that gleamed with a muted luster, reflecting his status as a warrior.
And though he stood aloof, his Sealocke aura was undeniable as even from a distance it was like the cold crushing pressure of the deepest trenches, leaving no doubt of his strength.
Beside him was the 'Songstress of the Deep', as she had become known, Elara Voss.
She hovered serenely, her flowing navy blue hair and shimmering fins blending seamlessly with the shifting blues and purples of the surrounding sea.
Her presence was a stark contrast to Thalor's.
Where he was imposing, Elara was the embodiment of fluidity and grace. Her gaze, however, was far from soft.
It was tactical and calculating, assessing Nereus with the detached curiosity of someone appraising a rare specimen.
Roran Thornevul, the ginger Sea Knight warrior with a towering presence and scarred scales that spoke of countless battles, floated Elara and Thalor with the grace of a seasoned predator.
His steely cerulean eyes met Nereus's for the briefest of moments, recognition flickering there if only for a second.
His reputation wasn't built on tactical brilliance or a Sealocke cultivation but on brutal physicality.
It was said that in any battle of raw strength or hand to hand combat, if you stood against Roran you were either a fool, suicidal, or both.
The three Inner Core disciples exchanged no words as they eventually swam past, their eyes briefly assessing Nereus and his companions with blasé indifference.
It was a silent acknowledgment of the gap between the ranks—a reminder that power wasn't just in strength but in the unwavering conviction that these elite disciples possessed.
There was no need for direct interaction; their mere presence imposed an invisible pressure.
'Hmph such unearned pomposity' Nereus couldn't help but roll his eyes as they passed, 'That Thalor fellow does have a tightly concealed aura and cultivation so I suppose he has some skill but its still far too soon to tell though...'
Nereus knew that to to truly stand at the apex, he would eventually have to surpass them. The selection was just the beginning.
As the trio vanished into the depths of the lively crowd, the water grew still, leaving behind a silence heavy with unspoken challenges.
Triton exhaled softly beside Nereus, tension draining from his posture as the oppressive aura receded.
"They didn't even acknowledge us," Jonny muttered, his voice tinged with awe and a hint of frustration.
"Good," Nereus replied, a cold edge to his voice. "That means we're still beneath their notice—exactly where we need to be until the time is right."
With that, the trio turned their attention back to the ongoing festivities.
The final performance was a reenactment of a legendary battle, complete with dramatic lighting and sound effects.
The story depicted the founding of the Vorteesi sect and the heroic deeds of its founders as the audience looked on quite enthralled, with their cheers and applause filling the Pavilion.