The last ripples of the shockwave faded into the horizon.
Steam hissed where abyssal ichor met seawater. Fractured stone slabs slowly settled back into place or slid into the tide with heavy splashes. The corrosive scent in the air began thinning, though faint black streaks still marbled the surface of the ocean like veins beneath skin.
Albedo stood with Havoc and Ruin resting loosely at his sides.
Wind pulled at his cloak.
Behind him, the Titan exhaled slowly, releasing the broken claw she had been bracing against. It toppled into the sea with a thunderous crash.
For several seconds, none of them spoke, Albedo just looking at the injured duo as he waited for them to say anything.
Then, finally.
"Thank you."
The Mermaid said, pushing herself upright in the shallow basin.
