The Awakening

The following day, preparations for the ritual were set in motion. Nereus stood at the center of the palace's sacred chamber, surrounded by glowing crystals and ancient symbols etched into the walls.

The energy in the room was palpable, humming with a quiet power that sent shivers through his body.Victor stood close by, his eyes never leaving Nereus.

Though he couldn't fully understand the magnitude of the ritual, he knew one thing for certain—he wouldn't let anything happen to the man he loved.

The council gathered around them, their expressions grave. The elder stepped forward, holding a small, glowing orb in her hands.

"This is the heart of the ocean's magic," she explained.

"It has been passed down through generations, waiting for the one who could wield it. Nereus, are you ready?"Nereus took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his decision pressing down on him. But when he glanced at Victor, standing strong and steadfast beside him, he felt a surge of courage.

"I'm ready."The elder approached him and placed the orb in his hands.

As soon as it touched his skin, a powerful surge of energy rushed through Nereus, making his heart race and his veins burn with raw power.

His vision blurred, and the room seemed to spin around him as the magic began to awaken within.Victor moved closer, his hand brushing Nereus's arm in a gesture of support.

"You've got this," he whispered.

Nereus clenched the orb tighter, letting the energy flow through him. It felt like the ocean itself was rushing into his veins, filling him with an ancient power that had long been dormant.

He could feel the pull of the sea, the ebb and flow of its currents, and the pulse of life that thrived beneath the waves.The energy intensified, and Nereus cried out as the power reached its peak.

His body glowed with a bright, ethereal light, and his tail shimmered with a brilliance that outshone the stars themselves.And then, with a final surge of magic, the energy settled within him, leaving Nereus standing in the center of the chamber, his body still glowing faintly.

He felt different—stronger, more connected to the ocean than ever before.The council watched in awe as Nereus opened his eyes, his gaze glowing with the newfound power he had awakened.

"It is done," the elder said quietly. "The magic is now yours."Victor stepped forward, his eyes filled with admiration and pride.

"How do you feel?"Nereus took a deep breath, his heart steady and sure.

"Like I'm finally where I'm meant to be."