|
Audio version of Jacklyn Taylor Stories
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Whispers of the Depths
Some time had passed since Callen successfully established the Council of Keepers and began strengthening alliances among the ocean’s many creatures. Despite these achievements, the ocean remained mysterious and full of secrets. One night, during a meditation with the Heart of the Ocean, Callen heard strange whispers that echoed in his mind. One name stood out clearly: Zanidar.
The next day, Callen shared what he had heard with Liriel and Turaak. “I can’t get this name out of my head,” he admitted, seated on the stone throne of the Council. “It feels as though it’s coming from the ocean itself. What do you know about Zanidar?”
Liriel, thoughtful, nodded. “I’ve heard the name. It’s mentioned in the legends of the sea folk. Zanidar is an ancient entity, a guardian spirit that watches over everything that happens in the depths. The name is only spoken in whispers—out of respect, or perhaps out of fear.”
Turaak, wrapping his massive tentacles around a pillar, added, “Zanidar is believed to be the keeper of the Stones of Balance. These artifacts are the foundation of harmony in the ocean. They contain knowledge and power capable of maintaining equilibrium under any circumstances. But I always thought it was just a myth.”
Legends of Zanidar
Callen’s curiosity grew, and he asked Liriel to tell him everything she knew. She invited him to the underwater library, where the ancient scrolls of the sea folk were kept for centuries. Together, they began studying old texts inscribed with symbols resembling shimmering waves.
“According to these texts,” Liriel began, running her fingers over one of the scrolls, “the Stones of Balance were created in ancient times, when the ocean was young. These artifacts were used to control currents, calm storms, and maintain harmony among all beings. Zanidar was appointed as their guardian, but after a series of catastrophes, the stones disappeared.”
“And what happened to Zanidar?” Callen asked, his eyes following her every word.
“It’s said that he fell into obscurity, waiting for someone worthy to find him and restore balance. According to legend, he only appears to those who are ready to bear the burden of being a true Keeper.”
The Call to Search
Callen felt a strange excitement. He realized these legends might be tied to his mission. “If the Stones of Balance truly exist,” he said thoughtfully, “and if Zanidar is their guardian, their power could strengthen our alliances and protect the ocean from any future threats.”
“Do you intend to search for them?” Turaak asked, his voice low and resonant, like the deep hum of the ocean.
“Yes,” Callen replied with conviction. “We can’t ignore this. If this is real and not a myth, I must find Zanidar and restore balance. I feel that the Heart of the Ocean is guiding me toward this.”
Preparing for the Journey
Liriel and Turaak agreed to accompany Callen. They understood the journey would be dangerous but also knew Callen would need their support. For several days, they prepared for the expedition, studying old maps and gathering everything necessary to explore uncharted depths.
“We’ll head to the eastern depths,” Callen announced to the Council of Keepers. “It’s the only place where traces of Zanidar are mentioned. I don’t know what we’ll find, but I ask you to continue our mission here in the city. We’ll return as soon as we can.”
The Council nodded in agreement, and its members vowed to protect the city in his absence.
Signs Along the Way
The journey began. Callen, Liriel, and Turaak plunged into the cold, uncharted waters of the eastern depths. The ocean grew darker, and the currents grew stronger, as if the sea itself were trying to stop them. Yet among these dangers, they began to notice strange signs: ruins resembling ancient temples, carved stone slabs etched with symbols that glowed faintly.
“These symbols are similar to the ones we saw in the library,” Liriel observed, touching one of the slabs. “I think we’re on the right path.”
“It feels like a call,” Callen agreed. “The ocean wants us to find Zanidar.”
Delving Into the Unknown
The deeper they descended, the more they felt the presence of something ancient and powerful. At times, Callen thought he could hear whispers emanating from the water itself. Liriel confirmed his sensations, and Turaak grew increasingly cautious.
“We’re close,” Callen said one night as they rested in an underwater cave. “I can feel that Zanidar is near.”
“I hope he’s ready to meet us in peace,” Turaak rumbled. “But remember, Callen, ancient powers are rarely hospitable.”
Callen, gazing into the depths of the cave, replied, “If he is a true Keeper, like me, he will understand that we come with pure intentions. We’re here to preserve balance, not destroy it.”
Their journey continued, and the water around them grew colder and denser. Callen felt they were nearing the place where Zanidar lay hidden. He was prepared for whatever awaited him, knowing this journey was not just a search for artifacts but a test of his strength, wisdom, and devotion to the Keeper’s mission.
