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Ereon

A s I inhale, water rushes into my lungs, causing an intense cough that burns throughout my body. Suddenly, the water clears and a sharp pain jolts through my stomach. With eyes still shut, I run my hand across my skin and feel a new scar.

Memories come flooding in: the echoing clash of swords; the sight of Carnaxa’s tears streaming down her face; and the overwhelming fear of my death. I accepted my impending death, finding solace because I would sacrifice myself to keep her safe, finally giving my life purpose after years of emptiness.

Opening my eyes, I find myself immersed in crystal clear waters, even though they are dark I can see everything. I move my legs, but they move as one and I look down. My legs have been replaced with a fish’s tail. Golden fins shoot out from the bottom, causing a sudden surge of panic within me. It’s a strange sensation as I move around and realize that the water surrounding me is not suffocating, but I can inhale it, as though it’s air. Is this what death is?

In front of me stands a woman, her appearance strikingly similar to the one who has captured my heart. She smiles at me, “I know you must have many questions, Ereon.”

“Why am I not dead?” It’s the only question that comes to mind, and the most pressing.

“Because you are one of mine by blood and Carnaxa held on so hard to keep you here. I saved you for her and what’s to come. This is only the beginning, and she’ll need you. The new King of Shaston has many plans, and I’m sure Khaysus does as well.”

“The new King of Shaston?” I ask.

“Thylas. I couldn’t save him, but hope is not lost.” She smiles sadly, before she looks behind her. “Go now. Find her. Prepare for this world to become anew. War is coming.”

“From where? We are beneath the waves?” I ask quickly. “What is going to happen?”

“Find her.” She disappears from view and my mind eddies at what she has said.

With haste, I propel myself to the surface, my mind filled with thoughts of Carnaxa. Breaching the water, I run my hand through my wet locks. And seeing nothing but the sea before me, I touch the shell still embedded in my chest, calling on whatever magic it holds within. I must find her. Did she survive? What happened after I succumbed to the darkness? A gold ripple shoots across the waves. A prayer and answer combined in the glittering water. I take a deep breath, adjusting to my tail, and dive again. To my new home. To her.