They continued their exploration, gliding past glowing coral, twisting roots, and shimmering caverns. Magical barriers shimmered faintly, protecting certain areas where mermaids dwelled. Some spirits led Lira into playful illusions, testing her focus. Others circled at a distance, observing her reactions, whispering in rippling waves of water.
Eventually, a cave appeared, its entrance glowing with soft, luminescent light. Inside, walls were carved with intricate images and painted with luminous pigments. Lira swam closer, tracing her fingers over the glowing symbols. The artwork told the story of a woman who had once swum these waters, leaving treasures behind after defending herself from guardians. The cave seemed to breathe with history and anticipation, almost urging her to learn its lessons.
