Arias rolls over in his sleeping bag. Sensing a presence, he opens his eyes. His brows furrow. “What?” He asks, annoyed.

Nathaniel smiles, inching closer till their noses were touching. “Bored?” He asks.

Arias frowns. He pushes Nathaniel over, using him as the little spoon as he rests his face on Nathaniel's shoulder. “Just say it.” He says.

“If you're bored, there's something for you to do.” Nathaniel says, pulling the blanket over him to get comfortable.

“Hmm-hghh.” Arias, mumbles, his consciousness fading.

“The port city of Sapphire is nearby. The women beautiful, and their fishermen warriors.” Nathaniel says, closing his eyes.

“Yess.” Arias says.

“There are also demons nearby... The mermaids have been drawing in the fishermen… It’s almost enough… Soon… They’ll resurrect the Drowned God… The city… Submerged in blood…” Nathaniel says, his mind already resting.

“Just mermaids… The kids can handle it…” Arias says. “Now, go to bed, little one… Let me immerse myself in your presence…” He says, his mind drifting. In the background of his mind, two children and a young woman… Keeping the darkness at bay…

…

…

Arias stretches. The princess happens to stroll by.

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“Oy.” Arias calls out.

Violet turns and frowns. “What?” She calls out.

Arias walks over. “We gotta head over to Sapphire.” He says.

Violet continues to frown. “Why?” She asks.

“The demon army is lurking.” Arias says. “And I have to take the kids for a field trip, so we’re going mermaid hunting.” He says.

Violet continues to frown. God, why is he telling me this? And his voice… Why does it feel so good… It’s like he’s telling me what to do… She thinks. Violet looks down. “Okay. A question first though.” She says.

“What?” Arias asks.

Violet smiles and points. “How big is it?” She asks.

Arias’ eyes widen. “Violet, you’re like 12 years old. Stop.” He says.

Violet’s eyes widen. “I’m 16!” She exclaims, before smiling once more. “Do you want to pretend I’m 12?” She asks, pressing.

Arias’ face flushes red. “Holy shit, Violet! You need therapy. I’m going. Tell the guards. Please. For the love of god.” He says before running away.

Violet lets out a laugh.

…

…

The group arrived at Sapphire city.

Arias frowns. “What a terrible city. Stinks of fish and sweat.” He says, displeased.

Violet presses the ball in her hand and a puff of perfume squeezed out.

Arias looks to Violet.

Violet smiles. “Better?” She asks.

Rodrick continues to frown. “No. Still smells like shit.” He says.

Alice breathes it in. “Smells like humanity.” She says with a smile.

Arias shakes his head. “Come on. Let’s find a boat. There are fisherman eagerly waiting the call to slack off for the day.” He says.

…

…

“Baah, baah.” The little goat says, walking alongside Arias.

Arias smiles. “Here you go, little one. May you have a long life.” He says, throwing a thousand-year mushroom.

The goat happily opens his mouth, and swallows. “Baah!” He says, a twinkle in his eyes.

Arias pats the goat’s head with love. “You can have one of those every once in a while. You’re still only at the third stage. Soon, you’ll be eating it each day.” He says with a laugh.

“Baah!” The goat says, happily chewing away.

Violet hides a smile behind a hand. “An Earthfoot Goat. How embarrassing.” She says with a whisper.

Arias frowns. “Let me guess. Some sort of fox. How many tails. Three at most…” He says, not impressed.

Violet stamps her feet. “I’ll have you know it has six tails! And she’s very soft and beautiful! Better than a stinky goat…” She says, defiant.

Arias smiles. “My stinky goat would have your fox on her knees and begging, should they ever clash.” He says, still not impressed.

“Unfortunately for you, my fox is only interested in fighting what’s beautiful.” Violet says, turning to Alice. “Would you happen to have a companion beast, dear Alice?” She asks.

Alice turns, simply smiling. “Not currently… but there’s nothing wrong with something dirty…” She says with a light laugh.

Rodrick shakes his head. “You guys are gross. Stop chattering. We’re at the docks.” He says.

Arias stretches and breathes in the air. “Nice and stinky.” He says. “Let’s find someone to ask about the mermaids.” He says, leading the way…