Sitting in the cozy and mysterious house of the seer, Ariana and Cael continued to absorb the invaluable information the old woman provided. The next stage of their mission would take them to explore the marine world, home to the mermaids, nymphs, and tritons—a society shrouded in mystery and unfamiliarity.

—The marine world is one of the most enigmatic in Elysia —the seer began, her voice resonating with a deep and reverent tone—. The mermaids, nymphs, and tritons occupy the second tier in the social pyramid, not due to a lack of power, but because they are so little known. They live underwater, in a reality that few can even imagine.

Ariana and Cael listened attentively, envisioning the vast aquatic expanses and the creatures that inhabited them.

—Life underwater is very different from that on the surface. Mermaids, with their scaled tails and enchanting voices, inhabit underwater cities built from coral and pearls. These cities are illuminated by the bioluminescence of marine creatures and the light filtering from the surface, creating a dreamlike environment —the seer continued.

Cael could picture the vibrant coral cities, full of life, while Ariana marveled at the description of such a different world from her own.

—Nymphs, on the other hand, dwell in underwater forests and beds of seaweed. They are guardians of marine flora, tending and nurturing aquatic plants that provide food and shelter to countless species. Their connection with nature is deep and spiritual, and they are known for their ability to communicate with sea creatures.

—And the tritons? —Cael asked, eager to understand the full structure of this society.

—Tritons are the warriors and protectors of the marine world —the seer explained—. With their strength and combat skills, they defend their homes from any external threats. They are also leaders in many underwater communities, ruling with justice and wisdom. Although their appearances can be intimidating, they are deeply respected and admired for their bravery and loyalty.

Ariana and Cael began to grasp the complexity and richness of this society hidden beneath the waves.

—One reason the mermaids, nymphs, and tritons are so disconnected from the rest of Elysia is their own environment —the seer continued—. They live in a world where most surface dwellers cannot survive. The barrier of water creates a physical separation that is difficult to overcome, leading to their being very little known and understood by others.

Ariana nodded, seeing how this separation contributed to their lack of desire in the social pyramid.

—To desire something, you must first know it —the seer added—. And few in Elysia have had the opportunity to truly know the mermaids, nymphs, and tritons. This keeps them in the background in terms of desire and power, despite their undeniable strength and beauty.

The seer went on to describe the rich traditions and cultures of these marine beings.

—Mermaids are known for their songs, which can enchant anyone who hears them. Their voices are powerful and can be used both for pleasure and for defense. They often celebrate festivals where they sing and dance underwater, creating displays of incredible beauty.

Cael and Ariana exchanged glances, imagining these underwater festivities.

—Nymphs, with their deep connection to nature, celebrate the cycles of growth and renewal in underwater forests. They perform rituals to honor the plants and creatures they care for, and their ceremonies are filled with symbolism and reverence for marine life.

—And tritons —the seer added—, celebrate their strength and courage through tournaments and competitions. These events not only showcase their combat skills but also strengthen the bonds of camaraderie and respect among them.

The seer concluded her account with a reflection on the challenges and aspirations of this society.

—Despite their apparent isolation, mermaids, nymphs, and tritons yearn for a greater connection with the rest of Elysia. They wish to be understood and respected for who they are, not just for their mystery. However, the physical and cultural barriers are difficult to overcome and require genuine and sustained effort to be dismantled.

Ariana and Cael understood that their mission was not only crucial for restoring balance in Elysia but also for uniting these seemingly disparate worlds.

—To fulfill the prophecy —the seer said with a penetrating look—, you must not only know these beings but also earn their trust and demonstrate that your mission is just and honorable.