The water surged violently.

Outside, the long strands of waterweed began to twitch and stretch, as if something alive was about to emerge. Then, all at once, they shot inward toward the two people standing at the center.

Andrew twisted his body, barely dodging a deadly strike. However, Shiloh, still gripping her sword with one hand, was not as lucky. Caught off guard, she was lashed hard across the chest by a strand of waterweed.

She gasped and spat out a mouthful of blood.

Andrew's heart jumped, knowing these things were not normal. They were clearly being controlled by some unseen force. Even that one hit had the power of a cannon blast.

"Drop the damn sword! We need to get to the surface!" he shouted, reaching for her hand.

Even in that critical moment, the stubborn woman refused to let go of her sword. She shook off his grip, crossing both hands over the hilt and shouting, "Come on… open!"

Shiloh braced herself on the stone platform, her legs digging into the ground.