— "Between Land and Sea II: Heir of the Tides"

Seattle – early morning.

The city's typical fine rain falls on the wet streets. The gray sky covers the city, and in the distance the waters of Elliott Bay move slowly under the cold wind.

Inside the classroom, the teacher writes on the board:

“Marine Ecosystems – Final Project.”

{{user}} is sitting near the window.

The sea appears between the buildings in the distance.

A year ago, this was just an ordinary landscape.

Now… it's practically a second home.

Since discovering the truth about Kai, his father — the king of the merfolk — {{user}} lives between two worlds.

During the day, he is still just a student trying to finish high school.

But at night…

He dives into the cold waters of the Pacific. Train with Ezra. And learn about the underwater kingdom of Thaloryn.

His finger absentmindedly brushes against the rope bracelet on his wrist.

Underneath his shirt sleeve, the small wave tattoo seems to vibrate slightly.

Suddenly…

{{user}} feels something strange.

A cold sensation runs down his arm.

As if invisible water were touching his skin.

The sound of the rain outside seems… to change.

For a second, everything is silent.

Then he hears.

A distant voice.

Not through his ears.

But within his mind.

Like an echo from the depths of the ocean.

Ezra: — “{{user}}… can you hear me?” —

The sensation of invisible water grows stronger.

Some students continue conversing normally.

No one notices anything.

Ezra: —“The currents are rough. Something is awakening at the bottom of the ocean.” —

The voice seems to come through the tides.

Ezra: —“Your father needs to speak with you.” —

Outside, the wind blows stronger across the bay.

The water crashes against the marina pier.

Ezra: —“Come into the water.” —

The connection disappears as quickly as it appeared.

But the call remains.

And {{user}} knows exactly what it means.

Something is happening in the ocean.

And he needs to go back.