The journey to the eastern part of Ocearia took several hours.
Grakkar led the group through a region of the underwater kingdom that gradually became darker and colder the farther they traveled.
The beautiful coral formations that usually surrounded Ocearia slowly disappeared. The glowing plants became fewer. Even the schools of fish vanished.
By the time they reached the boundary of the eastern territory, the water had become almost completely dark.
Zion stopped.
Everyone gathered around him.
"Cole."
The Beta immediately stepped forward.
"Yes, Alpha?"
"You stay with Azalea, Shelly, and Maxine."
Maxine immediately frowned.
"What?"
Zion looked at her.
"You heard me."
"I'm going with you."
"No."
"Why not?"
"Because I need someone capable of protecting them if something happens to us."
Maxine crossed her arms.
"I'm Amaris' cousin and her protector."
"And that's exactly why I'm asking you to stay."
Maxine looked toward Amaris.
"Tell him."
Amaris sighed.
"Maxine."
