110 Following the Path of Floating Driftwood (2/2)

The path in front was a dead end, with nowhere to go. Only the mountainous rocks that had made the small cave long ago.

The water that flowed under the driftwood did not have the slightest bits of life. There was not even the slightest bit of algae growing in large clumps, as they always did in places where there was water. This made the water exceeding clear. Clear enough to see that everything below the waves were dead.

Now, this scene should have sparked fear within the hearts of all who had unknowingly treaded upon such a dangerous place. Yet in the girl's heart, there was only unending curiosity.

Deep in the water, there were some crevices that could not be seen. Reflected within the crimson speckled pupils was the water shifting from deep, then to shallow. One thing that was certain was that going underwater was the only way to get anywhere beyond the dead-end that was ahead.

The figure dove into the clear water. Caring not, for the effects of the lifeless water. There were no bubbles that surfaced for a while, even the slight ripples that should have appeared were nonexistent. The surface of the water was calm, and no turbulent waves appeared, but it was clear that there was a shadow that lurked beneath the water.

Hair seemed to be thick as seaweed, floating under the water, becoming part of the water, having a mind of its own. The shadow was searching for something. Loose fabric floating as clouds would flutter lightly, following the figure into a small tunnel that resided beneath the water.

A cave that had been barren for a long time once again had a living creature swimming amongst its watery maze. The swimmer silent, without the slightest worry as to where the next breath of air would come from.

Wet and murky mud displaced at the slightest movement. The sediment that had not been disturbed for a long time was displaced.

Slowly but surely, there was no longer a rock ceiling above, as she cautiously emerged from the water. The emergence was rather slow, like that of a flower slowly blooming in the midst of darkness. Yet as soon as her head was out, she immediately wrinkled her nose.

Within the water, there had not been the slight scent of rotting flesh, yet why is it that after surfacing that this unforgettable scent came clear into her senses.

It wasn't long before her feet could touch the bottom of this cave. Allowing the hard rock ground to guide her, she slowly made her way to dry land. If it could be called so that is, as there was a wetness in the dark-colored soil that was beneath her feet. The soil seemed to be a mixture of dry sand, dead plants, and some small fragments of shells or bones.

Though her clothes were now soaked with water, it did not seem too heavy at all, it did not weigh her down either, so she did not bother to dry them off before walking into the strange place to explore. The water from her clothes silently drips, making a trail that could be easily followed.

It was unknown where this path would lead to. But even if there was danger ahead, she would still walk towards it.