The calm that settled over Atlantica in the wake of the attack shattered abruptly.
Trumpets echoed through the waters, carried swiftly by royal currents. At the head of an imposing contingent of palace guards, King Triton arrived, powerful currents swirling around him, making him look every bit the sea god he claimed descent from. His dark turquoise eyes blazed fiercely, his long white beard flowing freely in the rushing currents. Even in anger, there was a dignity about him that demanded respect.
"Athena!" Triton's voice rumbled, both relieved and stern. He surged forward, clasping her hands tightly. His concern softened his severe expression briefly. "Are you unharmed? And our daughters?"
Queen Athena gently placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "We are safe, Triton, thanks to the swift actions of these three."
King Triton turned sharply, following his wife's gaze to Helios, Kurai, and Thalen. His eyes narrowed in immediate suspicion, assessing these unknown visitors. Yet despite his wariness, he saw no hostility in their bearing—only calm resolve.
"These youths?" he asked cautiously, appraising Helios' composed stance, Kurai's coldly indifferent gaze, and Thalen's quiet, luminous curiosity.
"Yes," Athena said gently but firmly. "They fought valiantly to defend us. Especially this one," she added, indicating Thalen, who had remained near the princesses protectively.
Thalen blinked in mild surprise as Triton's towering gaze fixed upon him.
"Your courage has protected that which I hold dearest," Triton proclaimed solemnly, the commanding authority in his voice unmistakable. "I owe you my gratitude, young hero."
Thalen glanced briefly toward Helios, who subtly nodded in approval.
"Thank you," Thalen replied quietly, awkwardly mimicking the bow he saw the other people give to this man.
The King's stern expression softened further, replaced by cautious warmth. "It would seem you three arrived at a fortunate hour for Atlantica," Triton admitted. "Though I would prefer to know why."
Helios bowed respectfully. "We seek answers to a darkness spreading across the oceans—dark beings we call 'Heartless.' Something drew them here; we felt their presence and acted without hesitation."
Triton's expression hardened again at the mention of this threat. He turned decisively to his guards. "Bring the royal engineers and healers. Ensure the safety of every citizen. Begin immediate surveys and repairs of our damaged dwellings. And send scouts to monitor the borders. No one rests until Atlantica's safety is assured."
"Yes, my King!" Guards dispersed swiftly, coordinating rescue and recovery efforts. Triton nodded firmly, satisfied, before turning back to Helios, Kurai, and Thalen.
"We shall speak further at my palace. It is imperative we understand this threat fully. I invite you three heroes to join me for dinner tonight and discuss these matters at length."
Helios accepted with a slight incline of his head. "It would be an honor, Your Majesty."
Evening currents swirled gently around Triton's Palace, bringing a semblance of peace back to the royal chambers. Inside the dining hall, adorned by softly glowing sea lanterns and shimmering coral tapestries, Triton sat prominently beside Athena, their daughters quietly attentive at the grand table.
Helios, Kurai, and Thalen sat opposite them, their forms illuminated faintly by the ambient bioluminescent glow. Triton's eyes bore into them with sharp scrutiny, tempered only by genuine curiosity.
"Now," Triton began, his voice deep and authoritative, yet calmer, more diplomatic. "Explain to me clearly. What exactly are these 'Heartless,' and why do they threaten Atlantica?"
Helios spoke slowly, clearly, ensuring Triton and Athena understood every word. "Heartless from what we've been able to gather seem to beings born from the darkness in people's hearts. They corrupt the hearts of others, consuming them in shadow to birth more of their kind and spread like an infection."
"Then Ursula controls them? That blasted sea witch is the only one devious enough to call upon such creatures." Triton interjected.
"No," Helios explained patiently. "She is merely their tool—an unfortunate pawn. The Heartless are drawn by powerful emotions—hatred, fear, greed. Ursula's resentment is the perfect lure."
Kurai leaned forward slightly, her cold voice carrying a chilling clarity. "Ursula might think she's in control but soon enough they'll devour her heart too. These creatures are not something meant to be controlled."
Triton's brow furrowed deeply. Athena reached gently to squeeze his hand.
Thalen quietly interjected, surprising even Helios with his newfound confidence. "It's true…"
Triton's gaze fell upon Thalen thoughtfully. "Your eyes seem to be sincere."
Thalen hesitated slightly before nodding.
Triton considered this, his voice gentler, "Then we must trust your insight. I will station guards to watch for further incursions. Meanwhile, Athena and I will consult our archives and scholars."
Helios gave a reassuring nod. "Wise decisions, Your Majesty. But I must warn you, these creatures are ancient, powerful, and cunning. They will strike again. We must be ready."
A heavy silence settled over the room, the weight of the warning clear.
Triton exhaled deeply, his authoritative posture unwavering but his voice filled with a deep sincerity. "Very well. For now, rest here safely within my palace. You three have proven yourselves allies to my kingdom."
After dinner, Athena gently dismissed the daughters, instructing servants to escort them safely to their quarters. Ariel lingered momentarily, shyly thanking Thalen again before following her sisters.
Helios stood with Triton beside one of the grand windows, staring out into the dim expanse of ocean.
"Your Majesty," Helios spoke quietly. "I know this is difficult. But we must act decisively. The future of the very seas depends on it."
Triton's eyes glowed thoughtfully in the muted light. "Indeed, young man. Your caution is wise. We will prepare. But tell me truthfully: how do you intend to fight something that seems undefeatable?"
Helios regarded Triton calmly, his voice steady with quiet confidence. "By understanding it first. Every enemy has weaknesses, even the darkness itself. We must find and exploit them."
Triton considered Helios silently, respect evident in his guarded expression. "Then I place my trust in you, Helios. Help me protect my kingdom."
"Of course," Helios answered solemnly. "You have my word."
Outside, hidden within shadowed waters, the possessed Ursula watched through corrupted eyes, darkness curling around her fingertips. Flotsam and Jetsam circled restlessly at her command, their monstrous forms eager for the coming storm.
And in the deepest trenches of her imprisoned mind, Ursula raged helplessly against her invisible chains, her screams echoing unanswered in the void of her soul.
The Eye merely watched—and waited patiently.