Chereads / THE MYTH JOURNEY : The Destruction of Atlantis / Chapter 5 - The Gateway to Atlantis

Chapter 5 - The Gateway to Atlantis

The journey through the Pine Forest of Blue Valley felt calm yet full of mystery. Towering trees swayed gently in the breeze, their green leaves creating a serene and profound atmosphere. Sangaji, along with Raka and Anindya, led the way calmly, while Aisha, Yoona, Oliver, Amelia, and Jay followed behind them. The forest was silent except for the rustling leaves, but an overwhelming sense of something grand awaiting them ahead filled the air.

Sangaji, with his wise silence, suddenly stopped in the middle of the forest. "Here, we need some assistance," he said slowly, his voice full of certainty.

All eyes turned to Sangaji. He stood tall, closed his eyes, and the atmosphere seemed to grow even quieter. With graceful yet powerful movements, Sangaji summoned something from deep within his soul. The air around them seemed to vibrate, and suddenly, among the trees, a majestic mythological creature from the Nusantara appeared.

Barong—a magnificent creature, part lion and part tiger—emerged before them. His massive body radiated strength, his golden fur shimmering softly, and his large eyes reflected wisdom and protection. Barong moved gracefully toward Sangaji, as if the two had known each other for a long time.

"He will accompany us," Sangaji said calmly, stroking the head of the majestic creature.

The five students were in awe, stunned by what they were witnessing. It was as if all the myths and legends they had heard were now coming to life before their eyes.

Barong took the lead, guiding them through the deepest part of the forest until they arrived at a massive cave. The cave looked ancient, with stalactites and stalagmites adorning every corner. Inside the cave, a pool of blue water shimmered with dim light, and at its center stood a grand door, seemingly a relic from a distant past.

Sangaji stepped forward, gazing intently at the door. "This is the Temple of Poseidon—the gateway to Atlantis," he said in a low but firm voice.

Aisha stared at the door, feeling an inexplicable pull toward it, as if the entire journey had been leading her here. Oliver, who had studied ancient history, couldn't hide his amazement. "So Atlantis really does exist… and we're about to see it," he whispered in awe.

Jay, his curiosity mixed with doubt, asked, "How do we open it?"

Sangaji closed his eyes for a moment, sensing the energy emanating from the door. Using his deep spiritual knowledge, he extended his hands toward the ancient gateway. An invisible force radiated from Sangaji, merging with the surrounding air, and the massive stone door began to tremble. Slowly, ancient carvings on the door lit up with a faint blue glow. The water around the door rippled as it opened, revealing a path that seemed to lead to an unseen realm.

As the door fully opened, the air grew thick with anticipation. Beyond the door stretched a long corridor leading into the darkness, but at its far end, a shimmering light beckoned, hinting at something grand and wondrous waiting beyond.

"Aisha," Sangaji said, breaking the silence. "You were the first to open the way. You must enter first."

Aisha nodded, feeling a wave of courage flow through her. Without hesitation, she stepped forward, followed closely by Yoona, Oliver, Amelia, and Jay.

Just before they fully entered the corridor, Sangaji, Raka, and Anindya stopped. They would not join them.

"We can't go any further," Raka said calmly. "This journey belongs to you. We were only guides to this gate."

Anindya gave them a sharp look before adding, "Whatever you find there, let it be a lesson for all of you."

With a wise gaze, Sangaji gave his final words. "Atlantis is not just about discovering a lost civilization. It's about discovering yourself. Find what you seek, and may you return with the answers you need."

The five friends exchanged glances. Aisha, now leading the group, gave a small smile. "Thank you. We will find the answers."

With hearts full of courage and curiosity, they stepped into the corridor leading to Atlantis. The light at the end of the tunnel grew brighter, and as they ventured deeper, the world around them began to shift.

Slowly but surely, they left the cave and entered a different realm—

The world of Atlantis.

At the corridor's end, their eyes were met with a breathtaking sight. Atlantis—the legendary civilization—unfolded before them. The majestic city was filled with exquisite architecture, towers of crystal shimmering under the sunlight, and clear water flowing through every corner.

The streets of Atlantis sparkled with vibrant colors, giant statues adorned its squares, and ancient yet advanced technology could be seen everywhere. It was a perfect harmony between the wonders of nature and human craftsmanship.

Aisha, Yoona, Oliver, Amelia, and Jay stood in awe, captivated by the beauty and grandeur of Atlantis.

"This... is incredible," Amelia whispered, her eyes filled with admiration.

Yoona nodded silently, unable to hide her amazement.

Aisha stepped forward, sensing that this was just the beginning of something far greater than they had ever imagined. They had found Atlantis, but their journey was only just beginning.