He kicked hard, propelling himself straight down into the crushing dark.
The pressure built instantly, squeezing his eardrums. He swam blindly, following the sensation of the blue pricking against his skin.
Deeper. Colder.
Soon, the sensation vanished. The guidance was gone. His breath began to run short, his chest tightening.
'Did I imagine it?'
Panic flared. He was about to turn back when his eyes widened.
Hwaaak!
Far below, at the very center of the lakebed, a faint blue glow seeped out from a fissure in the rock. A small, underwater cave.
'Huuurp!'
His lungs screamed. His vision edged with black spots.
He hesitated. He had confirmed the location. He should go back, get Seraphine, maybe wait for Amy's buffs.
Bubbling.
From the mouth of the cave, a single, silver air bubble wobbled upward.
Oliver froze.
'Air. There's a dry space inside.'
If he went back up now, he'd have to do this swim all over again. He might not have the stamina for a second attempt.
