Ethernal Bounds: Love In The Underwater Domain

Chapter 17 Back To The Beach

They walked for some time, the landscape changing from dense forests to rolling hills and finally to the familiar sound of waves crashing against the shore. During the journey, Samaya grew tired, eventually falling asleep in Kusoma's arms, comforted by the gentle sway of his stride. As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, she awoke to the sight of the beach, with soft, golden sands stretching out before her, meeting the vast expanse of the ocean whose waves sparkled under the rising sun. Kusoma, noticing she was awake, gently set her down before walking towards a nearby coconut tree, his powerful presence blending seamlessly with the natural strength of the surroundings.

In one fluid motion, he punched the tree, causing coconuts to rain down. With quick reflexes, he caught one and, applying gentle pressure, crushed it into two pieces, offering the fresh, cool coconut water to Samaya. Watching him achieve so effortlessly what had taken her nearly an eternity in the past left a bitter taste in her mouth, but despite this, she couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer coolness of the action. "That was really cool," she said, unable to suppress her admiration.

Kusoma, enjoying the compliment, smirked slightly, aware of how easily impressed she was and knowing he needed to be vigilant about other males approaching her. However, this was a worry he could save for later. Confident in his own strength, he knew that others wouldn’t approach them carelessly if they valued their lives. Handing her the coconut, he watched as she drank, appreciating the simple beauty of the moment—the morning sun casting a warm glow over them, the rhythmic sound of the waves, and the contentment on Samaya's face.

Kusoma informed her that they would be entering the ocean next. Samaya hesitated, her thoughts immediately turning to her small companion, whom she had named Ponyo, and the lurking sharks eager for a bite. Kusoma reassured her, “your little troublemaker is a creature of the ocean and can breathe underwater. As for the sharks, you have nothing to fear for now that you are mine.” Puzzled by his statement, Samaya furrowed her brow, “Why? What makes it so safe now?” He glanced at her before turning his gaze back to the ocean. “The sharks recognize their own, and because you are my mate, the alpha's spouse, they won’t attack you.”

Samaya processed his words and recalled the large shark that had brought her to the island. She wanted to ask more questions but decided to let the matter rest, not wanting to get into an argument. However, one question she couldn't suppress was, "If you are a shark, then why do you look human? And why doesn't my tattoo look like a shark?"

Kusoma shifted his gaze back to her and simply said that he had evolved over time and could easily change between his human form, shark form, and fighting form. Satisfied enough with his answer, Samaya refrained from asking more questions and walked toward the shore. Seeing her hesitate, still frightened, Kusoma picked her up with an evil smile and threw her into the ocean. A surprised scream escaped her lips, soon muted as she entered the water completely.

“Kusoma!” she shrieked, just before hitting the water.

Opening her eyes underwater, the sight took her breath away. Around her, a coral reef glittered with a kaleidoscope of colors. The corals themselves seemed alive, swaying gently with the currents, their vibrant hues ranging from deep purples and rich reds to bright yellows and soft pinks. Exotic fish darted in and out of the coral, their scales shimmering in the sunlight that filtered through the water's surface. A small seahorse, delicately camouflaged, danced before her eyes for a moment before disappearing. It was soon replaced by a turtle, its movements slow and graceful, swimming around her with a calm curiosity.

The coral structures were intricate, resembling underwater castles and forests. Schools of fish moved in synchrony, creating mesmerizing patterns. Some fish had bold stripes or spots, while others had iridescent scales that changed color as they moved. Anemones swayed with the water's rhythm, their tentacles providing shelter to tiny clownfish. Starfish clung to rocks, their bright colors standing out against the coral.

In the distance, she saw larger creatures: a manta ray gliding effortlessly, its wings seemingly part of the water itself, and a group of dolphins playing joyfully, their clicks and whistles adding a melodic undertone to the underwater symphony. The water was crystal clear, allowing her to see the sandy ocean floor, where crabs scuttled and small shells dotted the landscape.

Kusoma joined her, his presence a reassuring silhouette against the vibrant backdrop. He pointed out various sea creatures, sharing brief insights about each. Despite her initial fear, Samaya felt a growing sense of wonder and excitement. The underwater world was a breathtaking realm of beauty and life, far beyond what she had ever imagined. She glanced at Ponyo, who was happily swimming around her, clearly in its element.

As she continued to explore this enchanting underwater paradise, she felt a deep connection not only to Kusoma but also to the incredible world he had introduced her to. The worries and fears she had above the surface seemed to fade away, replaced by awe and curiosity. This was a world she was eager to explore, with Kusoma by her side.