The Depths of the Deep Sea
Armed with a new instrument, I set out for the depths of the deep sea. The guardian of the forest told me about the monsters of the deep sea… I’ve heard they are inhabitants of the abyss, resembling giant squids. These monsters are the guardians of the deep-sea pearls, and they also know the source of the deep-sea clay.
The pressure of the deep sea is immense. Even with my immortal body, at this depth I feel as though my body is being gradually compressed. Still, I press forward. This new instrument—born from deep-sea pearls, starlight iron, and deep-sea clay—fits perfectly in my hands. It feels as though this instrument has become a part of me.
In the distance, I can see an eerie light approaching. It is a deep-sea monster. Even in these dark depths, its massive body exudes an overwhelming presence. Its tentacles look like sharp blades slicing through the deep darkness.
“I’ve heard about you from the Guardian of the Deep. The deep-sea pearl and the clay… do you intend to hand them over?”
The monster’s voice resonates directly within my mind. Is it a telepathic ability, or is it being transmitted through this instrument? I cannot tell. However, the voice feels imbued not with anger or hostility, but with a certain dignity and deep sorrow.
“I need these materials to understand the Words of Creation more deeply and to maintain the balance of this world. I have no intention of harming you.”
I reply. I raise the instrument and play the profound resonance emanating from the deep-sea pearl. It is not a threat, but a melody seeking understanding and empathy.
The monster reacts to the melody I play. Its enormous eyes seem to soften slightly. The movements of its tentacles also become a little gentler.
“The Words of Creation… is it? We, the inhabitants of the deep sea, know the power of those words better than anyone. However, if that power is abused, this world will perish.”
The monster speaks slowly. Its words are imbued with deep knowledge and, at the same time, a despairing sadness.
“We have made many sacrifices to preserve the balance of this world. You, too, must understand this.”
The monster points out the location of the deep-sea pearl and the clay. Then, it presents a single condition.
“That instrument… let me hear its sound. And convince me that the melody you play is what will maintain the balance of this world.”
I nod. I have only just begun to play this new instrument. The harsh trial posed by the deep-sea monster will serve as the touchstone to measure its true worth. I play the instrument born from the deep-sea pearl, starlight iron, and deep-sea clay. Its tone is a grand melody that fuses the vitality of the deep sea, the cosmos, and the earth—and at the same time, it is the cry of my soul.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
