Chapter 150: Lord Ao Quin
The Inner Sanctum of the South Sea realm was a marvel of engineering and natural beauty that had been turned into a fortress of desperation. Built around the largest volcanic vent in Ao Qin’s domain, the structure rose in spiraling tiers that channeled the superheated water into defensive barriers and power sources for the city’s magical defenses.
Or it had been, before the battle. Now, as Grim and Lin approached through the thermal maze of the outer approaches, they could see that much of the Sanctum’s elegant architecture had been shattered. Entire sections of the spiral structure had collapsed into the volcanic vent below, and the defensive thermal barriers flickered erratically, their power sources damaged or destroyed.
"The defenses are failing," Lin observed, noting how the thermal currents that should have created an impenetrable maze around the Sanctum were now chaotic and unpredictable. "Whatever Jiaolong did here, he broke more than just walls."
Bodies floated in the water around the Sanctum’s base—mostly South Sea dragons, their distinctive red and gold scales dulled by death and the corrupted magic that had killed them. Some showed signs of having fought valiantly, their weapons still clutched in their claws, while others appeared to have been overwhelmed by forces beyond their ability to resist.
"There," Grim pointed to a section of the Sanctum’s lower levels where lights still flickered behind reinforced coral barriers. "Survivors."
They swam toward the fortified position, but were intercepted before they could reach it. Three South Sea dragons emerged from concealed positions, their movements quick and aggressive despite obvious injuries. Unlike the North Sea dragons Grim was accustomed to, these creatures were built for speed and agility rather than raw power, their bodies sleek and streamlined for rapid movement through heated water.
"Halt!" the lead dragon commanded, his voice carrying the distinctive accent of the South Sea realm. "Identify yourselves or face the consequences."
"I am Princess Lin of the North Sea," Lin called out, as ice began to form around her . "This is Grim van Ambrose, ally to the Dragon Kings. We seek audience with Lord Ao Qin."
The lead dragon’s eyes widened with recognition and relief. "Princess Lin! We had heard... the reports said the North Sea was under attack as well."