Nathaniel’s eyes widened, his expression caught between shock and despair. His hands instinctively clenched tighter.
As the ship was dragged into the whirlpool. Darkness swallowed everything, and the only sound left was the roar of rushing water.
The world spun around him, and his whole body felt like it was being torn in two. He squeezed his eyes shut and clenched his teeth, the veins on his forehead bulging.
Nathaniel had no idea how much time had passed. Suddenly, his body felt lighter, and the ship seemed to settle somewhere. His eyes opened slowly, confusion lingering for a moment before doubt crossed his face.
They were no longer surrounded by the pitch-black sea. Everything around them was bathed in light.
Startled, he pushed himself to his feet. His legs were still wobbling as he made his way to the rail. He looked out, and the sight before him left him frozen in astonishment.
Nathaniel’s jaw dropped, and his eyes widened. The shock on his face gave way to disbelief, and at last to unbridled joy.
“This… This is…” the nearby general stammered as he stepped forward. His previously exhausted face brightened instantly, and his weary eyes glimmered.
Before them lay a massive island that stretched beyond the horizon. The island was covered in dense, vibrant trees of every shape and size.
Some trees had trunks so thick that it would take several people to wrap their arms around them. Their branches spread outward like enormous green umbrellas.
Other trees were slender with straight trunks, topped with vibrant, colorful blooms-red, purple, and yellow-that gave off a sweet fragrance.
A young soldier took a deep breath. A look of bliss spread across his face as he murmured, “It smells incredible… I’ve never smelled anything like this before.”
The island’s ground was covered in thick green moss, soft like a carpet underfoot. Among the moss grew many small, unidentified plants. Some had dewdrops at their tips that glimmered in the sunlight.
One soldier cautiously stepped onto it and shouted with delight, “This moss feels so soft. It’s like walking on a cloud.”
Not far ahead, a clear lake stretched out, and the deep blue water shimmered in the light. Occasionally, several colorful fish leaped into the air before slipping back into the water, sending gentle ripples spreading outward.
Aquatic plants grew along the shore, and their green leaves floated on the surface. Several brightly colored birds perched on the plants, preening their feathers. They called out occasionally with sharp, musical notes.
Deeper inland, mountains stretched in endless waves, with thick forests covering every slope. Mist coiled around the peaks, wrapping the mountains in mystery.
Waterfalls poured down the cliffs, crashing onto the rocks below. The spray caught the sunlight, forming bright little rainbows.
The island’s wildlife was equally remarkable. Several fluffy creatures darted through the forest. They had snow-white fur, long ears, and eyes that gleamed like rubies.
Above, a flock of vividly colored birds flew past. Their feathers caught the sunlight, and their calls were sweet and melodic. The soldiers stared in wonder. Their earlier fear and exhaustion were gone, replaced by curiosity.
Looking at the paradise-like scene before him, Nathaniel trembled with excitement. His lips quivered as his voice filled with long-suppressed joy and elation.
“It’s Elysium Isle. We finally found it.”
