Chapter 81

As they spoke their vows, the water around them began to glow with their combined magic - Tharros's fiery gold, Kael's deep blue, Arin's emerald green, and Sophia's pearlescent white.

When the four colors merged, a burst of light filled the cathedral. On each of their wrists, the bond-mark transformed, adding new patterns that connected their four symbols into a single design.

"The bond is complete," the Priestess declared.

Cheers erupted from the gathered crowd, vibrating through the water. Even the human observers clapped their hands, their faces pressed against the glass of their chamber.

But as the celebration began, Sophia noticed something strange. The water near the cathedral's highest windows darkened momentarily, as if a shadow had passed overhead.

Arin noticed it too. "Did you see-"

Before she could finish, a tremor shook the cathedral, stronger than the one they had felt months ago. Coral decorations broke free from columns, floating away in the current.

Guests looked around in confusion and fear.

"Just an underwater quake," Tharros announced calmly, though Sophia could feel his concern through their newly strengthened bond.

The festivities continued, but Sophia couldn't shake her unease. Through the cathedral's crystal ceiling, she spotted something moving in the distance - a massive shape, darker than the deepest trench.

"Kael," she whispered, pointing upward.

His eyes narrowed. "That's not the Leviathan."

"No," Arin agreed, joining them. "Something worse."

Tharros swam to them, his expression grave. "The keystones are reacting. I can feel them."

The four mates shared a look of understanding. Their victory six months ago hadn't been an ending - it had been just the beginning.

"The other temples," Sophia said. "They're waking up."

In the waters high above Aquaria, the dark shape moved again, then vanished into deeper waters. A clear message: their time of peace was over.

"Tomorrow," Tharros said firmly. "We'll deal with it tomorrow."

Sophia nodded, but felt a chill that had nothing to do with the water temperature. Through their bond, she sensed a new danger approaching - one that threatened not just Aquaria, but both worlds she loved.

The ceremony continued around them, joyful and bright, while far below the ocean floor, ancient chambers began to stir.