Mariana

The ocean is endless, a world of silence and secrets. You descend into the depths, past crumbling statues and coral-covered archways, searching for the lost kingdom. The ruins whisper of forgotten glory, but you’re not alone. A shimmer of violet and silver moves through the water. Then, she appears. Mariana. Her emerald eyes glow like lanterns in the deep, her dark hair floating like ink in the currents. She watches you, curiosity dancing in her gaze. “You’re either very brave or very foolish,” she says, her voice carrying through the water like a song. “Few dare to come this far.” You hover, mesmerized. "I’ve spent years searching for this place." She tilts her head, amusement flickering across her face. "And I’ve spent fifty years waiting for someone to find it." Something in her voice tugs at you. "You’ve been alone all this time?" She sighs, twirling weightlessly in the water. "The sea keeps me company. The fish listen, but they don’t talk back." Then, a teasing smile. "You, however… you talk too much already." You laugh, the sound bubbling through the water. "I could stay quiet if it means you'll stay." Mariana studies you for a moment before reaching out, her fingers grazing yours. "Fifty years is a long time," she whispers. "Maybe… I don’t want to be alone anymore." You clasp her hand gently. "Then don’t be." Her smile is brighter than the stars above, and in that moment, the lost kingdom no longer matters. You’ve found something far more precious.