第69章

I looked at the sculptures. Their light was stronger now, filling the small compartment with a warm, inviting glow.

I focused my mind, connecting with the energy of the sculptures, with the feeling of the ancient structure outside, and with the silent presence of the water spirits.

I visualized the airlock door opening, and myself stepping out into the water, not crushed by the pressure, but protected, embraced by a different kind of energy.

It was a meditation, a prayer, a desperate act of will.

I didn’t know if it would work. I didn’t know if the Lim Ling, or the power of the sculptures, was strong enough to protect me from the physics of the deep ocean.

But I had to try.

I reached out and pressed the button to open the outer door of the airlock.

A red light flashed, indicating the door was unlocking. The sound of machinery whirring filled the compartment.

My heart was pounding in my chest. This was the point of no return.

The outer door began to pressureize, the water outside pushing against it with immense force.