The soft luminescence of the Seafoam camp glowed like a beacon in the fading light, with coral-like formations that seemed to melt into the natural landscape around it. Within the largest of the pavilions sat Genoia, their poise regal despite their evident weakness. Close, the High Priest's bioluminescent veins pulsed with a weak glow, once radiant yellow now a pale, pulsating gold. Though their body betrayed exhaustion, the voice was steady with the authority of one who had seen and endured far beyond mortal comprehension.

Genoia gestured toward the others and they came around her. Low, their voice was commanding. "Fifty years, at least, if the flow of time hasn't been altered. In the Depth Festival—when our people rejoice and are renewed—the temple was infiltrated. They came quick and silent, for the High Priests. Many of us were hurled into these tears in space, spread across the universe.".

Myrith and Lysara exchanged tight looks. It wasn't just any story. Depth Festival was holy, its sanctity protected by the most powerful spells and guardians. That someone could infiltrate it so deeply made them shiver.

Genoia's lips furrowed. "At least now my top priority is resting. I need to wait patiently. You are Myrith and Lysara ?"

Both Seafoam representatives nodded, still not looking away.

"You will keep this a secret," Genoia continued, their tone brooking no argument. "No word of my presence here can leave this camp. There are enemies among our own lines. I suspect Pyrestone's involvement, but this operation was too grand, even for them. Someone else is pulling the strings."

The air inside the pavilion began to feel more oppressive. Pyrestone was notorious among the Auquans for their aggressive and militant philosophy. Their methods often involved brutal force and domination of weaker factions, but this level of sophistication hinted at something far more insidious.

It was Lysara who broke the silence. "High Priest, where is your assigned Beast Companion?"

Genoia's gaze softened for a moment, and a faint flicker of sadness crossed their face. "This city cannot give space in it to my aged friend. My companion is kept in a safe location. As far away from here, it is located. For now, Sinlung will be my shelter. Its distance works for us. We can't be traced for here.

They breathed hard as the fatigue of their labor crept into their voices. "But first, I must rest."

Myrith bowed as she stepped forward. "We will ensure all you require is at your disposal, High Priest. The Seafoam awaits your command."

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Genoia nodded barely perceptibly. As they left the pavilion, there was no but the darkness, heavy and unyielding.

---

Outside, the night air was heavy with unspoken questions. The hum of the Seafoam camp was faint; structures pulsed softly with bioluminescence. The group had gathered near a central fountain; the water of which shimmered with faint traces of mana. Lysara turned to Larin and his companions, her expression uncharacteristically serious.

I need you to understand what just happened, she began. "The High Priest of Yellow-fin is no ordinary person. Their duty is closely attached to the mystical and magical world of our civilization. Yellow-fin happens to be one of the more central religions with the Auquans, with priests specializing in summoning and contracts, specially those with enormous cosmic beings.

Ngieri tilted her head, curiosity etched across her face. "So, they're summoners? Like the kind who bind creatures to their will?

Lysara shook her head. "Not quite. It's not about domination, but symbiosis. The Yellow-fins tie themselves to forces beyond our ken, forming a bond that enriches both parties. The Depth Festival is one of the holiest events, during which these bonds are renewed and celebrated. For someone to infiltrate that… it's unthinkable."

Rinku's voice was not loud yet sharp. "And yet, it happened. What kind of enemies would dare something so bold?

"Enemies within," Myrith said grimly. "Genoia's suspicions about Pyrestone are well-founded. The Pyrestone faction thrives on aggression and conquest. They see strength as the ultimate virtue and believe in imposing their will on others. If Xiaxo had fallen under Pyrestone's influence instead of Seafoam, Genoia would likely not have survived."

The group fell silent as this reality sunk into them. Gwendon crossed his arms, deep in thought. "If Pyrestone is behind it, then we are deeper in turmoil than we thought to be. But Genoia also hinted at another player being involved. Someone or something even more dangerous.".

Lysara nodded. "That's why this must remain a secret. If word of Genoia's presence spreads, it could draw unwanted attention to Xiaxo. For now, we focus on keeping them safe and gathering information."

Larin's voice was steady, though his mind raced with possibilities. "What can we do to help?"

Lysara looked at him a moment, her eyes probing. "Be watchful. Know all you can of your country and its mysteries. Sinlung is not just a refuge; it is a source of power. The more knowledge you gain about it, the more ready we will all be."

---

As people started losing themselves in their thoughts and the group broke off, Larin found himself standing at the edge of the camp. The night stretched above him, full of endless stars scattered like shards of broken glass. He clenched his fists and felt the weight of the situation on his shoulders.

Sinlung had always been his home, a place of deep connection and mystery. But now it was something more—a shield and a target, a land tied to a battle far larger than he'd ever imagined.

He looked back toward the pavilion where Genoia rested. Their frail form belied their strength, but Larin knew that strength alone wouldn't be enough. The world was shifting, and Xiaxo was caught in its tide. They would have to be ready for whatever came next.