Ah, welcome back. Pull your chair closer to the fire and mind the kettle. I promised a tale, did I not? Last week we spoke of The Stilling, of pearl-bound slumber, and of the First Breath of Tide when the sea awakens once more.
The merfolk are as varied as the tides themselves. Some are healers and lorekeepers. Some are explorers. Some are warriors whose names are spoken only in whispers. Most dwell within coral sanctuaries hidden throughout the waters of Mythren. There they raise families, tend ancient reefs, and preserve traditions older than many kingdoms upon the shore.
For centuries there has existed a quiet tension within the sea. On one side stand the Mermaid Guardians. These steadfast wardens serve as protectors of sacred gates, keepers of ancient pathways, and defenders against the darkness said to dwell in the depths of the sea. On the other the Mermen Sirens. Now mind you, not every tale you’ve heard about sirens is true. Most are exaggerations born from frightened sailors and overactive imaginations. Sirens are no more monsters than merfolk themselves. They are simply different. Where the Guardians value caution, the Sirens value freedom. Guardians preserve tradition, the Sirens seek opportunity. They are wanderers, traders, adventurers, and risk-takers.
Many merfolk walk among us during the season of the Walking Tide, blending easily into the mortal. It is also said that some of the worst mistakes began exactly the same way. Above them all sits one figure whose name stirs unease throughout the sea.
The Blackfin King.
Ruler of the Siren Realms. Master of the Deep Trenches. A sovereign admired by some and feared by many. The Guardians watch him carefully. The Sirens follow him faithfully. And somewhere far below the reach of sunlight, ancient powers stir whenever his name is spoken. But we shall save the Blackfin King for another evening. For before one can understand the rulers of the sea, one must first understand the bargain that binds sea to shore. The Covenant of Bone and Foam.
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