Ambitions

Nereus arrived home in great spirits, buoyed by the success of his venture with Triton and the promising prospects it held for their future.

As he swam through the gates of the Vanderbilt estate, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. However, his mood shifted as he sensed a strong disturbance in the sea essence emanating from Jonny's room.

Curiosity piqued, he decided to check on his friend.

Nereus approached Jonny's quarters, the intensity of the sea essence disturbance growing stronger with each stroke of his tail. As he neared the entrance, he could feel the powerful currents swirling within, indicating a significant breakthrough was occurring.

With a mix of anticipation and caution, he pushed open the door.

Inside, Jonny was surrounded by a vortex of sea essence, his body glowing with an ethereal light.

The sight was mesmerizing, a testament to the power of the Megalodonic Accords. As the essence began to settle, Nereus took in Jonny's transformed appearance.

Gone was the portly, jovial merman he had known. In his place stood a more handsome and distinguished figure.

Though still on the huskier side Jonny was now slimmer, his features more refined, and his aura more commanding. Yet, the warmth and friendliness in his eyes remained unchanged.

"Argent!" Jonny exclaimed, his voice filled with excitement. "You won't believe it, I've just broken through to the Wave Ruler stage!"

Nereus couldn't help but smile at his friend's enthusiasm. "Congratulations, Jonny. You look great. The Megalodonic Accords have truly worked wonders for you."

Jonny grinned, his eyes sparkling with pride. "Thank you, Argent. I couldn't have done it without your help. The Inner Core Disciples Selections are only a week away, and I owe it all to you for pushing me to train harder."

Nereus felt a jolt of realization. "Only a week? Time has passed more quickly than I thought."

Jonny nodded, a serious expression crossing his face. "Yes, we have to be ready. This is our chance to prove ourselves."

Nereus placed a hand on Jonny's shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze. "You've done amazing, Jonny. I'm proud of you. But now, I need to focus on my own cultivation. We both need to be at our best."

Jonny smiled warmly. "Go on, then. Don't let me keep you."

Nereus quickly made his way to his room, his mind racing.

He settled into a meditative position, his thoughts centering on the task at hand. He began to draw in the sea essence, feeling the familiar flow of energy through his meridians.

Despite his efforts, however, he sensed he was not close to breaking through to the Reef Master level.

Nereus's cultivation method, inherited from his Leviathanic bloodline, was unique.

It granted him a powerful Sea Art every three levels, a technique that had been invaluable in his past life.

He could feel the anticipation building within him, the desire to manifest this next Sea Art driving him forward. The method had always been reliable, a source of strength and versatility, and he was eager to unlock its next level.

As he continued to cultivate, his thoughts turned to Jonny's transformation.

It was remarkable how far his friend had come in such a short time.

The Megalodonic Accords had truly unlocked Jonny's potential, and Nereus was confident that Triton would soon follow suit. Their progress was crucial, especially with the Inner Core Disciples Selections looming.

Despite the looming pressure, Nereus found a moment of gratitude.

Jonny's breakthrough was a significant milestone, one that would undoubtedly bolster their chances in the selections. He was also confident in Triton's potential, knowing that with continued guidance, Triton too would rise to the challenge.

The issues within the Vorteesi sect seemed monumental now, but Nereus reminded himself that his ambitions extended far beyond these immediate concerns.

He envisioned a future where he had avenged Argent's death, amassed significant power, and moved on to one of the other Great Sects.

The Vorteesi sect was just a stepping stone, a necessary phase in his journey towards greater heights.

With renewed determination, Nereus focused his energy, feeling the sea essence pulse through him.

The challenges ahead were significant, but so were the opportunities. The Inner Core Disciples Selections would be a pivotal moment, but it was only one part of his larger plan.