Siren's Kiss

76: Ashes to Ashes

Ciel hesitated to leave his mother, but every moment of delay brought her closer to succumbing to the icy prison. With a heavy heart, he accepted her blessing—a final act of siren magic meant to protect her child. Leading Drake forward, Ciel focused on finding his room, where the key to their survival lay.

The shifting atmosphere around them didn't go unnoticed. A sudden surge in the current signaled that the "entity" was aware of their presence. His mother's last words echoed in his mind:

"Even if Lexios didn't create the Seven Seas, as Nerevarus' twin, his influence extends far and deep. To destroy us, he must infiltrate our world through its inhabitants. Your grandmother is one... but there is another, one whose sway extends over all—pirates included."

Ciel had promised to return for her, and Drake had made the same vow. Though Queen Nerissa disapproved of her son's choice in a partner, the genuine affection between them softened her misgivings.

They pressed on, following the palace's winding paths. The layout here offered no detours, as if forcing them toward their destination. Ciel could feel the oppressive weight of his grandmother's siren magic pressing against him. Her malevolent influence, bolstered by the god she served, sought to consume this space. Yet, King Cyraeni's power resisted her; younger and stronger than Lady Maris, the king's magic preserved some balance within the Elysium Reef.

For a fleeting moment, familiarity gave Ciel a sense of safety as they moved through the corridors and chambers. They followed a left-turning hall, carried along by the natural flow of water.

Drake, meanwhile, took in the palace's breathtaking design, his admiration evident. The grandeur of Thalassara spoke to the wisdom of its creators. It felt like a world apart from the Seven Seas. Ironically, Drake found himself silently thanking the Dragon God for choosing him as a champion—despite his disdain for the immortals who ruled the universe.

They finally arrived at a door framed by a faint bluish-green glow. The energy emanating from it was unmistakable—powerful siren magic pulsed from within.

Ciel placed his hand against the shimmering barrier, exhaling softly. "We're here."

Drake raised a brow, glancing at the intricate carvings. "This be yer room, love?"

Ciel nodded gently before turning the knob and finally opening the door. Drake's jaw slackened as he stepped into the room, awestruck. It felt surreal, stepping into a place so intimately tied to his beloved—a glimpse into Ciel's personal world. The furnishings remained untouched, a stark contrast to the chaos that had consumed the rest of Thalassara.

Ciel wasted no time, swiftly moving to the drawers in search of the key. He opened one box after another, tossing aside Atlantic treasures that any pirate—especially one like Drake—would covet. Gems sparkled and ancient artifacts gleamed as they hit the floor, but Ciel's focus remained astute.

Drake watched the spectacle, grinning with a mixture of awe and mischief. "Ye're throwin' away enough wealth to buy half the Seven Seas, me love. Careful, or I might fall in love with yer treasure instead."

Without even looking up, Ciel shot him a sharp glare. "Don't even think about it."

Drake smirked wider. "Not to worry, me beloved. I'm a patient man. I can wait until we're married."

The unexpected comment made Ciel freeze, his eyes widening in shock. He whirled on Drake, incredulous. "How dare you?! You mean to rob me after marriage?!"

Drake blinked, taken aback by the accusation. "Huh? No, I was talkin' about makin' love to ye. But I s'pose ye could call that robbin'... robbin' ye of yer innocence."