One of the spirits, larger and more defined than the others, drifted closer to my viewport. Its glowing eyes seemed to bore into mine, a silent communication that bypassed language.

I felt a connection forming, not through words, but through energy and intent. I could feel its ancient presence, its deep connection to the ocean and its mysteries. And I felt a sense of purpose radiating from it, a waiting.

The Lim Ling needed its heart restored. This underwater structure, and perhaps the water spirits themselves, were part of that restoration.

I knew what I had to do. I had to get outside the submersible, to the ancient structure.

It was an insane idea. Stepping out into the extreme pressure and cold of the deep-sea trench would be instantly fatal without a specialized suit. And I didn’t have one.

But the feeling, the pull from the sculptures, the waiting in the water spirit’s eyes, was overwhelming.

I looked at Captain Rostova. “I need to get out there,” I said, my voice trembling slightly but filled with determination.