The port city of Sapphire was located on the outskirts of Shearpeak's territory.
Two heroes grew up here, and together, they built a city.
The city grew, and it became one of the most prosperous places on the continent.
But as the brothers grew, and sought out greater strength, their relationship slowly started to change.
The older found the process more natural, and always seemed to be surrounded beauty; whether it was his surroundings, or his company.
The younger brother wasn’t as talented, and as he watched his older brother continue to walk steady steps, an urgent struggle grew within him.
Still, he walked those steps just the same. But for him, his path grew dark, and before he knew it, the blood that stained his hands could turn the water red.
The older brother was left with no choice; to defend the city and its people, he had to face him; his own flesh and blood.
Their battle destroyed the city, plunging it into the ocean depths.
It was said that the winner of that battle had sealed his brother, along with the city, within the ocean.
As for which brother had walked away, and which was sealed within the city ruins, no one could know for sure.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
But the old hero hiding within the ocean, over time, became known as the Drowned God. Legends say, he may still live, but it is unconfirmed to this day…
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…
Rodrick approaches a fisherman by the dock. “Good sir, may I trouble you for a moment?” He says.
The fisherman turns, and gives them a blank look. “Just a moment.” He says, before moving to throw the anchor into the water.
**SPLASH**
He turns once more and gives the kids a good look. “You look like a spirited bunch. So watcha want?” He asks.
Violet takes a step. “We hear word of fisherman being pulled into the waters. Siren songs and mermaids. Do you know something of it?” She asks.
The fisherman gives a bitter smile. “Ah, that. Shame is what that is. Damn fools… Should know better than to be tempted by songs.” He says with a shake of his head. “Ay, I know of them. The mermaids come when the moon is full; many helpless men have become their prey.” He says with a sigh.
Violet raises an eyebrow. “Do they only target the men? What of women?” She asks.
The fisherman chuckles. “Ay, women as well. But I’ll not speak of that. Women and dreams; what can you do…” He says, laughing, and his face turning red.
Arias rubs his chin. “When the moon is full, eh? Perhaps we’ll rest a while then…” He says, pondering their options.
“We’ll find an inn. There’s a full moon in three days. We’ll have better luck then.” Alice says, turning to lead the way.
Rodrick sighs. “Maybe I’ll practice my body cultivation technique.” He says, feeling restless.
Violet follows quickly. “Wait for me, Alice!” She says, running off.
Arias looks at the sea, and the setting sun. He couldn’t see it, but he was sure; it was rippling…
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…
Arias sat at the bar of the inn; beside him was the fisherman.
He had a question to ask, but he forgot what it was.
Arias takes a drink. “How goes the fishing?” He asks.
The fisherman takes a spoonful of clam chowder, and smiles. “It’s great. Fish for days.” He says.
Arias takes another drink. Through the chatter, he heard something interesting.
“Mermaids. I’m telling you; those guys had the right idea. Such beautiful songs; why wouldn’t we want to get near? I bet they’re living it up.” A scruffy fisherman says.
Another burly man shakes his head. “Bro, I’m telling you. Those guys are dead. Why would they tempt you in, if not to eat you?” He says.
“And what a beautiful fate.” The scruffy man says with a sigh.
Arias looks over before nudging the fisherman beside him. “Who do you think catches more; you or the mermaids?” He asks.
The fisherman laughs. “It’s not about the catch. It’s how much you can eat!” He says.
Arias smiles. When the full moon comes, he wondered; how much would they catch?