Brayok, the once proclaimed ‘Warden of the Deep’, had spent his time since parting with his comrades combing the vast oceans to observe the current state of the seas. While enjoying the chance to again swim freely, fresh water passing through his gills, he slowly began to notice that the places that were familiar to him were nothing more than long defunct ruins. Traveling far from even the most remotely known parts of the oceans, he headed for yet another location he was familiar with. Again, he found only ruin but also found life; four large, identical creatures that he did not recognize were circling a collapsed structure, snapping every now and again at the one available opening. He adjusted course to pass them, but heard a distinct yell for help coming from the rubble.
“Eh?” Brayok rolled in the water and returned his eyes to the scene. “Something sentient… finally.” He swam for the serpentine beasts and thrust out an equal number of tentacles; binding them tightly, he squeezed until their angry roars finally ceased. As he released them, their lifeless forms slowly sank and began drifting across the ocean floor. Moving up to the pile, Brayok aimed an eye at the opening. “You there, those creatures are dead. Come out.”
After a long minute a head cautiously peeked out of the opening; taking in the massive Brayok, the creature emerged and stared up at him with wide eyes. “Whoa!” The girl exclaimed excitedly. “You beat them… you really beat them.” She looked over the defeated beasts. “And so easily too, that’s amazing!” She laughed and waved off her amazement. “I mean, of course you did, look at you. You’re huge!” She swam up to him fearlessly and poked his forearms. “Look at these arms, work out a lot or something?” She laughed and swam down, taking one of his tentacles. “And these, not many creatures have these.”
Brayok growled as the girl swam around him, poking his body and chatting incessantly. He finally reached down and took her tail, lifting her to his face. “Stop talking.” He bluntly ordered.
“Oh… sorry, I do that.” She shrugged innocently. “Thank you by the way, I forgot to say that first. Actually, I should have introduced myself first, I’m Sparkle Scale, but everyone calls me Sparks, so call me Sparks too; after all, you saved my life and…”
“I’m regretting it.” Brayok cut her off, eliciting a pout from the girl. “Now, you want to talk? Start by telling me what you are exactly, I do not recognize your species.”
“Oh, no problem.” She turned herself upright as he released her. “I’m Finfolk.” Twirling her elegant, nearly seven-foot-long body, her rainbow graded scales sparkled brilliantly. The top of her body was jointed to arc forward, ending in a rounded head with big bright eyes on either side and a mouth full of surprisingly pointed teeth. Her four, translucent pectoral fins gracefully gestured outwards to show off her colors as she grinned up at him. “Not bad, huh?”
“Finfolk?” Brayok repeated, ignoring her posturing as he looked around the ruins. “What happened to Crustacia?”
“Crustacia?” She in turn repeated. “Oh, is that was this place was?”
“How long has it been in this state?” He asked.
“I don’t know, long as I’ve been alive.” She shrugged. “There are a few places like this I go to, I like to look for old stuff buried in these buildings. That’s my hobby by the way, my mom got me into it; she used to do this too and has huge collection of treasures…”
“I don’t care.” Brayok stopped her.
“You know, you’re not very friendly.” She folded her fins and glared at him.
“I am well aware.” He countered.
“So… wait, you know about this place?” She asked. “How old are you? My grandfather is like… super old, and he doesn’t know anything about this place so you must be super super old.” She eyed him. “You look good for your age, what kind of diet do you…”
“By the World Dragons will you stop rambling?” Brayok growled, his voice reaching a rare pitch of irritation. “You’re as bad as Faye.”
“Oh, you said Crustacia right?” She continued, ignoring his irritation at her. "Was this place a home for Shellfolk?”
“That must be the name they’ve adopted.” Brayok concluded. “You know of them?”
“Oh sure,” She nodded. “We’ve got plenty of them back home; along with Skatefolk and Eelfolk, Cetafolk, Sharpteeth… they’re pretty grumpy, you remind me of them a...”
“They live as one?” Brayok interrupted?”
“Uh huh.” Sparks nodded. “Always have.”
“No, not always.” Brayok corrected. “Your home, where is it located?”
“About a half day swim from here.” She pointed north-west. “It’s called Pelagia, most beautiful city in the sea, well… it’s the only city, but that means we win by default. Food is to die for, there’s this place called…”
Brayok raised his claw to his forehead as she launched into another tangent filled mess of monologue. Having no other alternative source for information, he eventually had her guide him to Pelagia. As they swam, more and more life became visible as they neared their destination; all of which froze and stared at the giant heading for their home. Rarely surprised, Brayok could not believe his eyes when he saw the towering spires of the city in the horizon; the massive underwater metropolis was a bright and colorful mishmash of conflicting architecture and design; some of which he recognized and most of which he did not. Hundreds of sea folk were coming and going, floating trailers being hauled along by domesticated ocean beasts and patrols of armored creatures in patterned formation keeping track of it all. One such group quickly approached them with weapons at the ready.
“Halt! What type of beast are you?!” The group of six floated before Brayok, words braver than the looks in their eyes.
“Easy, easy!” Sparks swam in front of him. “It’s okay, he’s with me.”
“Miss Sparkle?” The head of the patrol swam closer.
“It’s Sparks, Cole.” Sparks reminded. “Geez, like the eightieth time I’ve told you.”
“What… who is this?” Cole asked.
“This is…” She quickly stopped. “Hey, you never told me your name.” She looked back at him curiously.
Brayok stared down at the patrol. “Brayok.”
“Ooh, that sounds so cool.” She noted with an impressed smile.
“Miss Sp… Sparks,” Cole corrected himself. “Please explain.”
“Oh,” Sparks got herself back on track. “I was exploring the ruins, as I do, which as it turns out are called Crustacia according to the big guy here; anyway, I got cornered by some Trench Maws and was probably about to die but Brayok showed up and took them down.” She punched her fins through the water.
“I uh… I see.” Cole looked up at the frighting creature. “Thank you then; if you’re a friend to Sparks then you are welcome here. The Commander will be grateful to you for protecting his daughter.”
“Yeah, everything is under control.” Sparks assured. “I’ll stick with him, we’re practically best friends now anyway.”
“We are no such thing.” Brayok toned.
Sparks leaned closer to Cole with a smile. “He’s the strong silent type, likes to play it cool.”
“Um, alright then.” Cole looked up at Brayok. “Welcome to Pelagia.” He rounded up the others and resumed their patrol.
“Yeah, welcome to Pelagia.” Sparks gestured widely. “C’mon, I’ll give you a little tour. Now, be prepared for creatures to stop and stare, you are pretty big and scary looking.”
“Nothing foreign to me, girl.” Brayok noted as he began following her. “That creature said you were the daughter of a commander, are you of importance?”
“Kinda.” Sparks casually confirmed. “My father is the head of the Pelagian Security Force; Cole is a part of it, they act as the city’s protectors and local peacekeepers.” She detailed. “My father only answers to the Representative Council; they run the city.”
“You have no ruler?” Brayok asked.
“What, like a king?” She glanced back at him. “No, according to the stories passed down we did have something like that once, but it got phased out.”
Sparks guided Brayok through the city and once up close he was surprised that the majority of the areas could accommodate a creature of his size; while not able to enter any of the structures, he was able to swim freely between them. Seeing such a variety of ocean denizens operating as one was something truly new to Brayok, much less within such a modernized setting which was as equally overwhelming to his sensibilities. As Sparks had said, nearly all activity came to a halt in his presence and she made sure to be constantly waving and offering reassuring words that no one in any danger. The spectacle of Brayok’s presence caused such a stir that they were once again approached by a much larger squad of the Security Force with an older and rugged looking Fishfolk at their lead.
“Oh, hey Dad.” Sparks waved.
“Sparkle, I got word you’d returned with some massive creature that was drawing concern from the citizens.” The Commander looked over their city’s large visitor; he resembled Sparks in form but larger with hard eyes and scales that were solid silver giving the appearance of plate mail.
“This is Brayok,” Sparks introduced. “Brayok, this is my Dad, Silver Scale.”
“Brayok,” Silver Scale repeated the name. “I’ve never seen such a creature in all my life, what exactly are you?” He asked boldly.
“Old.” Brayok answered shortly.
“He saved me, Dad.” Sparks swam up to him. “Took out four Trench Maw like they were nothing.”
“Trench Maws?” He glared at her in exasperation. “Blast it, girl; I told you to stop going on those foolish little excursions of yours. You know their activity has been increasing even more lately.”
“I’ve never seen them at the place I was at before.” She defended.
“That just means they’re expanding farther than we thought.” He countered.
“But they’re no match for the big guy here. "Sparks motioned towards Brayok. “He could totally help out with the Trench Maws.” She swam up to his head. “He’s a real hero.”
“No.” Brayok refuted. “I was merely exploring the seas to learn what I can about their current state; all the places I once knew are nothing more than eroded ruin. This city is new to me, unlike anything I have seen before, and yet it seems to be all that is left in this entire region.”
“In a way, that is true.” Silver Scale said with a hint of regret in his voice, looking around at the halted city activity. “Perhaps we should continue this in a more secure location.” He suggested. “I owe you my daughter’s life, the least I can do is provide you with information about the city.”
Brayok slowly nodded as he did indeed seek information on the area. Under the Security Force’s lead, he and Sparks were taken outside the city to the main base of operations for the military organization. Observing the soldiers, supply caches and weapon stockpiles as they went, he was brought into a massive storage facility large enough to accommodate his frame.
“Impressive operation, had we had such organization in my time your world would look much different today.” Brayok noted.
“Ominous, but appreciated.” Silver Scale responded in kind. “You said you were old, just how old are we talking?”
Brayok focused his eyes on the Commander. “I was sealed away for over four thousand years before being recently revived. Before that, I roamed the world’s oceans for several thousand years.”
Silver Scale paused in shock at the revelation. “That… is extraordinary.”
“See, isn’t he cool?” Sparks swam up and rested a fin on Brayok’s shell. “He doesn’t even look it.”
Brayok turned an eye to her and she pulled her fin back with an innocent smile. “The seas are unrecognizable to me now.” He continued. “As I said, all I once knew is gone; where did this city come from and what happened to the many nations that permeated the sea floor?”
Silver Scale swam up to his face. “Our history is recorded verbally, stories passed on from generation to generation; we’ve come a long way and looking back it’s hard to tell how much is fact and how much is tall tale.” He began. “Our oldest story speaks of the first Finfolk, who sought out to make a haven for the refugees from surrounding areas. What exactly happened was never clearly detailed, only that some cataclysmic event happened along the sea floor which impacted those individual nations you spoke of. Small at first, the original city took elements from all creatures of sea. The Shellfolk are well known for their superior structures, breaking down their molted shells to make building material. The Sharpteeth and Eelfolk are unparalleled hunters, usually hunting only to feed themselves they took to obtaining additional food to help feed everyone. The Skatefolk are scavengers, they spread out from the main hub and brought back whatever useful materials they could find buried under the lost cities of old. Cetafolk are highly versatile, have the ability to breach the water and can travel extreme distances; they kept up communication with every creature and spread the word of the city as far as they could to any who sought a better life.” Silver Scale gestured out the large bay door to the city proper. “At that point, the basic foundation of what would eventually come to be named Pelagia was laid.”
Brayok absorbed the story with interest. “I can’t imagine what happened, whatever it was it was during my imprisonment and did not seem the impact the Seaponies.”
“Seaponies?” Sparks repeated. “What are those?”
“Ponies are land dwelling creatures, in the past a select group of them were cursed by the Storm King and transformed in ocean dwellers.”
“You can tread land!?” Sparks asked excitedly.
“Yes, although I am not fully fond of it.” Brayok informed. “I am much weaker on the surface.”
“What’s it like up there?” Sparks continued eagerly. “What other kinds of creatures live there? Oh, what’s the food like…”
“Sparkle!” Silver Scale barked.
“What?” She eyed her father. “How can you not be curious?”
“Because it isn’t important right now.” He motioned for her to rejoin his side which she did. “Sorry, she’s excitable.”
“I’ve noticed.” Brayok noted.
“Back to the city,” Silver Scale carried on. “As it grew, it became obvious that some form of organized leadership needed to be put in place. The creatures were accustomed to some form of royalty and that was attempted, but each species felt that their particular needs were going overlooked. Inevitably, it was decided to transition to rule by committee and the original Council was formed. With an elected representative from each species being part of the Council, it was far easier to make sure all needs were addressed and taken into account. More and more creatures began showing up and the city continued to grow into what you see now. There are some outlying settlements, but those are growing fewer in number.” He toned grimly. “The reason for that being the Trench Maws. They’ve been plaguing the area for years now but seem to grow more in number and wider in scope with each passing year. Sparkle said you killed them with ease, in that case perhaps you could aid us?”
“Aid?” Brayok toned.
“Those creatures are not some wild beasts, they are controlled.” Silver Scale relayed. “This… massive thing, a six headed behemoth has them in its sway.”
“Six headed?” Brayok repeated with a snarl. “Impossible.”
“What?” Silver Scale saw the look in his eyes. “You know it, don’t you.”
“Scylla.” He uttered the name with a distinct bitterness. “That witch was a bane to the oceans for as long as I can remember, but she should be dead.”
“Well, perhaps not as much as you might believe.” Silver Scale carried on. “Those monsters attack and destroy the remaining settlements one by one; the refugees flee here but eventually Pelagia itself will be next. I’ve been sending soldiers to defend those areas but many lives have been lost and our defenses are slowly being whittled away.” His hard eyes softened. “I don’t know how or why you wound up here, but you have the power to contest this monster and ensure Pelagia’s safety.”
“It must have been fate that you showed up when you did.” Sparks joined in, returning to Brayok’s head. “See, you are like a hero.”
“I told you, I am no such thing.” He looked at her intently. “You know nothing of my past, if you did, you would have long ago fled my presence.” His eyes returned to Silver Scale. “I kept the forces the ocean’s past in check of my own accord, not the whims of others. Ultimately, I spent four thousand years in chains for the acts I committed and have only explored to learn what happened to the oceans in my absence.”
“What are you saying?” Sparkle looked at him with disbelief.
“If your city is as great as you claim, then you will be strong enough to survive.” He stated plainly. “It is not my cause.” With that he took his leave. Silver Scale made a silent curse as his potential hope made its exit, knowing he had no power to stop it.
“Hold on!” Sparks quickly swam after Brayok as he left the base. “Wait!” She rounded his head and stopped in his face.
“Go home, girl.”
“How could you just leave?” She asked. “Don’t you care what happens to all those creatures? You’re one of sea’s creatures too, you’d turn your back on your own kind?”
“You are not my kind,” He curtly retorted. “I have no kind.” He gestured towards the city. “The seas I knew are long dead and only three creatures walking this world now represent the life I once knew. I have no stake in this modern time and nor do I wish to claim one.”
“So that’s it? There’s nothing in it for you?” She asked.
“It is not something you could understand.” Brayok moved around her and continued on.
Sparks struggled in flustered thought. “Fine! What is there was something in it for you!?” She swam after him again. “What if you had something that made this time worth something to you?”
He let out a dull laugh as he continued on. “Such as?”
“Me!” She boldly declared.
The ridiculous pronouncement staggered Brayok and he glanced back at her. “What?”
“You saved my life, right? So... I’ll uh… I’ll be your wife.” She swam up to him again. “That’s how things like this worked in your time, isn’t it?” She folded her fins, growing perturbed as laughter followed her words. “What’s so funny? I’d make a great wife.” She swam around to his front. “Do you know how many talents I have? I can sing and dance and I took a cartography class once and I made jewelry for a summer and I have my treasure hunting collection and…”
Brayok brought his claws up and clasped them around her, once the sound stopped, he brought them apart again to find her pouting. “Foolishness.”
She sighed and moved up to his face once again. “Yeah, okay… a little drastic but…you may not think you can be a hero, but I do. You’re big and strong and cool… even if you did bad things in the past that doesn’t mean you can’t do good things now.” She aimed at fin at the city. “Pelagia is a great place, the only real place we sea creatures have, it could be a place for you too if you want it to be.”
Brayok thought back to what Aestus had said before they parted ways; looking to find some re-connection with his fellow dragons that he had been separated from for so long. He stared at Sparks for a long minute, her eyes filled with hope. Grumbling to himself at the nagging thoughts in the back of his mind, Brayok slowly nodded. “Very well, I will aid your city.”
“Really!?” Sparks beamed, shooting forward and slapping against the front of his shell with her fins spread. “I’m hugging you!” She called up to him. “Can you feel this? Because it’s really genuine!”
He peeled her from his shell and lifted her to his face. “Quit while you’re ahead.” He suggested.
“I think I’m growing on you.” She grinned confidently.
“Ugh, I’ve changed my mind, you’re worse than Faye.” He toned.
Riding his shoulder, they returned to Silver Scale who was surprised to see him back. “Guess what Dad, I sorted things out with the big guy and he’s going to help.”
“That… that is wonderful news.” Silver Scale maneuvered up to them. “Thank you.” The old Commander said with rare humbleness.
“Your daughter’s incessant prattling happened to remind me of what my friend is going through.” Brayok explained.
“He means my heartfelt and persuasive argument.” She patted his shell. “You got to read between the lines with this guy.”
“Ugh.” Brayok grumbled.
Brayok was briefed further on the current situation, the known scope of the Trench Maw activity and the area of the only known sighting of the now identified Scylla. Information of Brayok and his intent to assist made its way to the Representative Council and a meeting was set up between the two. In the meantime, Sparks offered to take him to something to eat since her father had made it clear that whatever he requested be provided as appreciation for his help. She led him from the city again, heading westward from the limits.
“You know, normally I’d take a creature to nice restaurant for a first date.” Sparks noted as she swam alongside him. “But you’re a little too big for my favorite spot; not really the social type either.” She smiled at him, garnering no reaction. “Still going to play it cool huh? That’s okay, I’ll get you to come out of your shell eventually.” With a grin she swam closer and bumped him with her fin. “Eh?”
“You’re making me reconsider my decisions.” He muttered.
“Oh come on, I’m just messing with you.” Sparks twisted as she moved, looking down his body. “Speaking of shell though, what exactly are you? Are you Shellfolk? You’ve got all those wriggly bits but also some scaly bits… you’re like a puzzle some creature put together from different sets.” She eeped as his head turned to her with a low growl. “Well put together though.” She amended. “Ruggedly handsome in your own way.”
“Your brazenness is as impressive as it is irritating.” He noted. “There are few who do not fear me.”
“Why should I be afraid?” She asked simply. “You’re nice… for the most part; grouchy for sure, but I think you’ve got good buried in there. Deep in there.”
“Do not mistake my willingness for goodness.”
“Oh don’t worry, I’m not.” She countered with a bright smile.
He grumbled again, turning his head back to the way ahead. Led to a sprawling processing yard, Sparks introduced him to the lead manager, a Sharptooth named Stripe.
“I see you’ve made a new friend.” The shark-like figure folded his spindly but sinewed arms, marveling at his giant visitor. “Although not exactly odd for you.”
“This is Brayok,” Sparks introduced. “He’s a big creature with a big appetite, I figured it’d be best to dine straight from the source. Dad's orders.”
“Well, I’m not foolish enough to tell him no.” Stripes laughed. “Follow me.”
“This place handles all the meat source supply chain for the city.” Sparks explained as they followed. “Like Dad said, the Sharpteeth used to hunt to feed everyone. Once the city got bigger, they started raising stock instead. They’re masters of all things carnivore and take their work very seriously.” She chuckled. “The greenery farms that handle the non-meaty side of things are always challenging them to cook offs, we have a festival every year where they try to outdo each other.”
“The last trophy is in my office.” Stripes noted as he glanced back.
“Such coexistence would be unthinkable in my time.” Brayok thought back to the long history of conflict he was accustomed to; Sparks took that in, but for a change chose not to say anything. Brayok was guided to the primary stock yard and offered to have his fill, Sparks watched in a kind of wonder as he devoured a dozen of the farm raised creatures with little to no effort. Wishing to rest after his long trek across the ocean, he claimed a rocky spot outside of the city and settled his shell between the formations. His forearms drifted forward and he laid his head atop them, sighing as his great body relaxed. Sparks slowly swam up to the apex of his shell that protected the back of his neck and nestled on it, propping her head up on her fins.
“Hey, can I ask you something?” She peered down at the top of his head.
“Would saying no stop you?” He asked in return.
“Probably not," She laughed, her face turning serious. “What was it like back then, you know… all those thousands of years ago?”
Brayok grunted at the question. “The oceans were home to many different factions and nations, but they were not trustful of one another. They were not neighbors, but predator and prey in many cases, and competing predators in others. Their constant conflict was no different than the ones that plagued the surface world. It was a time of brutality where strength meant survival and anything less meant death.”
“That sounds… less fun.” Sparks noted. “So, what was your home like, any family?”
“I told you I have no kind.” He reminded. “I swam the oceans alone, my strength challenged by only a claw full of creatures. But the seas were still my domain; I destroyed any creature or group that threatened to truly destabilize them. After a time, they began to call me the Warden of the Deep. It served to keep the majority of the conflicting factions in line.”
Sparks considered the information. “Violent… but it sounds like you were doing your part to keep the waters safe.”
“That depended on what side of my wrath you fell on.” He clarified. “But the conflict never truly ceased, and eventually I grew tired of my unwanted title.”
“If all that’s true, then… how did you wind up imprisoned for so long.” She asked further.
Brayok sighed at the follow up inquiry. “I did not lay here to be interrogated, girl.”
Sparks giggled. “Sorry, I’m just interested; I like you and I want to know more about you.”
“You are naive.” He retorted. “I suggest you abandon whatever idea you have about our interactions.”
“You say that,” She began with a smug grin. “But despite the fact you could literally throw me across the ocean, I’m still here.”
Brayok grumbled once again. “I am going to rest now, lay quietly or I’ll bury you under a rock.” His eyes closed and he lay still. Sparks smiled at his threat and curled up on his shell. The remaining light that penetrated from the water’s surface faded and slowly returned with the following dawn. Sparks was jostled awake as Brayok stirred and her cheery morning greeting was met with his usual lackluster acknowledgement. Returning to the city, she took him to the Council’s headquarters; a coliseum like structure adorned with visual symbols that Brayok assumed represented each species. The unnerved guards were informed by Sparks that the Council wished to meet with Brayok and since he could not enter, they needed to come out. They were directed to the building's rear exit which led into an open water amphitheater that was used for public speaking engagements. Winding his tentacles into a platform, Brayok stood in the area’s center and awaited with Sparks seated on his shoulder. Accompanied by a detail of Security Force members, six creatures emerged and approached them. The stately looking Finfolk swam forward and gazed up at Brayok.
“My word, you’re everything that was described.” He noted. “I am Adler, representative of the Finfolk.” He gestured back to the other five. “My fellow representatives are Sea Shadow of the Skatefolk, Rock Claw of the Shellfolk, Isurus of the Sharpteeth, Pathfinder of the Eelfolk and Bubble Runner of the Cetafolk. Your name is Brayok, correct?”
“Yes.” Brayok answered shortly.
“Well, we thank you for your assistance in this dire matter.” Adler continued. “We have spoken with Silver Scale, he said you named the monster that threatens us; you called it Scylla.”
“If the creature described to me is indeed who I believe, then yes, that is her name.” Brayok confirmed.
“Silver Scale has told you all that we know, but that does not mean we have nothing to offer you in assistance.” Adler relayed. “Whatever resources you require will be granted and the reserve of the Security Force is available to help in any way they can.”
“Provide the girl with the locations of these outlying settlements that are being attacked.” Brayok began.
“You can use my name, you know.” Sparks toned.
“Tell your forces to focus on fortification instead of engagement,” He continued. “Killing these beasts means nothing until you can learn just how many exist and how and where they reproduce. I will sweep the area with intent to learn just that.”
“Alright,” Adler nodded, turning to a member of his security detail. "Would you have one of the census keepers join us?"
"Sir." The Finfolk officer saluted and headed back inside, returning minutes later with a spectacled bottlenose Cetafolk. Sparks swam down and was detailed the directions to the remaining settlements, retaking her position on Brayok’s shoulder once she had the information.
“I will return before dark.” Brayok spread his tentacles and pushed himself up and away from the amphitheater. Heading outside the city, he landed on the bottom again and folded his arms. “Give me the locations.”
“I’ll handle the navigation.” Sparks offered.
“You are not coming.”
“Hey, we’re a team remember?” She defended.
“As of when?” He asked. “You’re the one who keeps deciding these things on your own.”
“Hey, hey, I get it.” She dropped from his shoulder and patted the breast of his shell with her fin. “You don’t want me to come because you think it’s too dangerous and you’re worried about me.”
Brayok rolled his eyes. “Again… your interpretation.”
“I appreciate it,” She carried on. “But look at it this way; these settlements have been under attack and the creatures there are scared and need hope.” She reminded. “And let’s face it, being a calm and reassuring presence isn’t exactly your thing. Let me do the talking for us and make sure that they know that you’re the good guy.”
Brayok found himself irritated, but mostly at the understanding that she was right. “Fine.”
“Awesome.” Sparks took to the peak of his shell. “Let’s go partner!” She cheered.
“Ugh.” Brayok grumbled yet again as he headed out under her direction. Traveling from location to location, the two gathered information on the nature of the attacks and the movement patterns of the Trench Maw. Using all the info provided, they began to narrow down the likely areas from which they could be originating. Pinpointing four likely locations, Brayok traveled from one to the next, finding finally some movement on their way to the third.
“Look.” Sparks pointed down at a school of roughly eleven of the creatures.
“They have no clear alpha, yet they move with such organization and purpose.” Brayok noted.
Sparks punched one of her fins into the other. “Let’s go beat their tails!”
“Quiet.” Brayok toned. “They are not headed towards any of the settlements, which means they are headed to whatever hole they call home. We will follow them.”
“That works too.” Sparks conceded as Brayok stayed high in the water and trailed them. To their surprise, they didn’t head to any of their predicted spots, instead moving towards a shelf that descended even deeper into the water. Giving them some time to get where they were going, Brayok followed after; the water grew ever darker as he lowered himself into the depths, Sparks shrinking between the spines of his shell to feel as safe as possible. Scanning the wall of the underwater cliff, he found a great multitude of holes that led into the rock.
“Hmm.” He laid his claw to one of the holes.
“Some kind of burrow?” Sparks whispered.
“It appears so.” He growled as he was too large to enter.
“You want me to check it out?” Sparks bravely offered.
For the first time in their interactions, he thought of her safety, knowing full well just how dangerous that would be in actuality. “I don’t think that’s a sound idea.”
“We don’t have many other options.” She left his shell and moved to the hole. “I won’t go far, just enough to see what’s going on in there.”
Brayok made a slightly unsettled noise but gave her a single nod. “Just remember, information is worthless if you do not live to relay it.”
She smiled, taking that as his way of saying be careful. “Gotcha.” She slowly headed in and vanished from view. Brayok stared at the hole for minutes on end, no sound coming from within; as he began to consider the risk of calling into the hole to her, Sparks’ voice came from his right. “Whoa…” She had emerged from another hole and quickly returned to him.
“What did you find?” He asked.
“It’s like… a complete maze in there.” She explained. “No chambers, just tunnels that go on and on and on.”
“Then this isn’t a true burrow.” He thought. “This is merely a hidden access point for something larger.”
“A lot of the tunnels lead the way we came, they must go under the whole area.” Sparks concluded.
“Most likely to confound any who would seek to discover Scylla’s lair.” Brayok concluded.
“So, what do we do?”
“We need to find some way for me to access this underground network. There is a chance that I can find some dormant volcanic break that feeds into this shelf.”
“There are topological maps of the greater area at the Security Force headquarters.” Sparks informed. “The Cetafolk charted out the sea floor for hundreds of miles.”
“That would be our best next move.” Brayok decided. “Hold on to my shell.”
“Sure thing.” Sparks wrapped her four fins around one of his spines and held on as he quickly left the area and returned to the city; a sleek head poking out of one of the holes to watch them off.
Returning to the main base, Brayok touched down in the primary yard of the compound; Sparks left him and swam inside to speak with her father about what they had found. As he waited, he saw a similarly multi-colored Finfolk emerge from the nearby mess hall; from his peripheral he watched it approach.
“You could only be this Brayok I’ve been hearing about.” She offered him a calm smile.
“I am.” Brayok slowly turned his head to her.
“I’m Sparkle’s mother, Aurora.” She introduced. “I was here visiting my husband, he’s often busy and sometimes this base is the only place I can see him.” She looked at the compound. “I’m glad I got the chance to run into you, I had hoped to have the opportunity to thank you for saving Sparkle.” She looked back to him. “I understand she’s been working with you to help with this Tench Maw problem.”
“I had little say in the matter.” Brayok noted.
“Ha ha, I imagine you didn’t.” She shook her head. “She has her father’s will, that much is certain; but she lacks his judgement at times.” Her face turned more serious. “I know you’ve already saved her once, but please watch over her. She is grown and I can’t do much to leash her anymore, but she seems to have taken a great liking to you from what I hear.”
“Mom!” Sparks’ voice rang out as she rapidly swam to them, various rolls tucked under all of her fins. “Hey, I see you met Brayok.”
“I did.” Aurora nodded.
“If he seems a little standoffish don’t take it personally, just how he is.” She explained. “We’ve got a lead on things and we’re going to do some strategizing.”
“Please Sparkle,” Aurora began. “I know this situation is more dangerous than the Council or your father is willing to let on for fear of causing a panic. Be careful.”
“I’ll be fine as long as I’m with my partner here.” She tossed her head towards Brayok. “He doesn’t like that term, but I think he’s getting used to it.” She heard the distinct rumble of his typical reaction behind her. “See.”
Aurora laughed and nodded. “Take care, both of you.”
Brayok accepted Sparks back to his shell and moved from the base; setting up on some flat rocks, Sparks unfurled the maps as Brayok loomed over her. “Kelp?” He questioned, observing the green tinted parchment.
“Yeah,” Sparks confirmed. “Processed and compressed, then etched with shed Sharptooth teeth.” She further detailed. “You didn’t have this?”
“No,” Brayok answered. “I admit these advancements in the sea are impressive.” He watched her scan the parchments. “Anything of note?”
“Hold on,” She raised a fin. “One time in a cartography class, remember?” She reminded.
“Hard to keep track when you’ve rattled off so much in so little amount of time.” He smirked.
“Ha ha,” She laughed dryly. “Maybe you just need to be a better listener.” Mulling over the charts for a while, she spied something that seemed to meet Brayok’s requirements. “Here we go, looks like there’s a half formed, volcanic mass about two miles from where we found those holes.”
“That will have to do,” Brayok looked out into the distance. “I will have to bore my way back towards those tunnels to break into the system; there must be larger chambers somewhere.”
“Sounds like plan.” She rolled up the maps. “Let me drop these off and we can head out, I’ve got the route memorized.”
“Very well.” He nodded.
“Hey, you didn’t even make a noise this time.” She happily pointed out. “I’m wearing down those walls.” She giggled, heading back to the base. Again, she guided Brayok, traveling to the area on the map she observed. Nearing the location, they could see the results of leftover volcanic activity along the sea floor and invariably the pair come upon the original opening in the ruptured landscape. A hole large enough for Brayok to enter, he descended into the great underwater cave where much went dark.
“This will do.” Brayok said as he observed the less rugged walls.
“Now just how did you plan on getting to the tunnels?” Sparks asked.
“Using an old trick.” He glanced to his shoulder. “Move to the other side of the cavern.”
“Sure.” Sparks did as told and watched as Brayok withdrew his head and forearms into his shell; the protruding tip of the shell that protected his neck was aimed forward and he began working his tentacles in a winding motion. Starting to rotate on an axis, his powerful appendages spun him faster and faster. Pushing forward, Brayok began to drill into the rock with ease and set course for the tunnel network. “Cool!” Sparks cheered over the rumbling. She followed behind him as he pressed on, all light soon fading as they left the entry point. Some time in his labor, Bryaok could feel breaks as he obliterated sections of the already bored tunnel system which let him know he was on the right track. With anxiousness blurring Sparks’ concept of time, she felt relief as Brayok finally crumbled a wall that spilled into a massive chamber. “Oh wow.” Sparks’ relief turned to wonder as she beheld the cavern, lit to a brilliant blue by the bioluminescence of countless creatures that drifted about and clung to the walls.
Brayok emerged from his shell and took in his surroundings. “Given the number of passages, it must have taken centuries to create this network.”
“For sure…” She suddenly looked over to him. “Wow, you’re not dizzy after all that?”
“We have no way to determine where to go.” He continued, observing several much larger passages alongside the smaller ones to accommodate a far bigger creature.
“I can think of several places you can go, Brayok.” A cruelly pitched voice echoed around them.
“So, you do live.” Brayok said bitterly.
“Is that her?” Sparks quickly moved to his side.
“Of all the creatures of the sea, you are the last one that I would have imagined coming across again.” The voice carried on. “Imagine my surprise when my little ones told me about you; the so-called Warden of the Deep, still alive after all these thousands of years.”
“Come face me, Scylla.” Brayok challenged. “Neither of us are ones for words.”
A sickly laughed followed the challenge. “Permit me one more then… die!”
The walls came to life with a chorus of screeching and roaring, the chamber flooding with Tench Maw as they poured from the tunnels.
“Into my shell!” Brayok ordered as he spread his tentacles out in all directions; Sparks quickly swam up and behind his neck, pushing herself into the safety of his shell. Maneuvering all of his appendages at once with amazing speed, Brayok began striking the oncoming horde with such force that they propelled into the cavern walls and fell silent. He raised his arms to his face as the numbers overwhelmed him and the creatures began sinking their teeth into his flesh. He opened his beaked maw and bit outward, chomping down on a mouthful of their heads in retaliation. The cave began to grow dark as blood soiled the water; knowing he couldn’t withdraw his head without harming Sparks, he pulled his arms in and began to spin again; the spines on his shell shredding the attacking creatures and flinging the ones who had their jaws in him away. The Trench Maws began to retreat back into the tunnels and Brayok pushed his arms out again, floating in the suddenly silent water. Through the thick red haze around him, he saw twelve eyes staring at him; before he could react, he felt a powerful jaw bite into his right arm. Brayok roared in pain and felt an unbearable hotness begin radiating from the bite.
“I nearly died after that last battle.” Scylla recalled. “With only two heads remaining, I sought refuge deep in a trench where few creatures could travel.” She explained as Brayok struggled to free his arm. “I found a chamber within the world’s crust, alive with volcanic activity; I was able to force myself dormant and as my body regenerated over the thousands of years the proximity to the sulfurs and toxins gave me a rather interesting new quirk.” She laughed, bringing another head close to him. “I’m quite poisonous now.” She whispered into his ear.
Brayok threw his head forward and chomped down on her snout; as she recoiled in pain, her bite loosened and he quickly turned back to the hole he bored, speeding back towards the exit. He began to feel weaker and weaker as he went, but nevertheless battered the walls with spare tentacles causing the tunnel to collapse and fill in as he swam. Once back in the open ocean, he started towards the city but went limp, slowly falling to the ocean floor.
“Brayok!” Sparks swam from his shell, seeing the condition of his body and his fading eyes. “Brayok! Come on, get up! Please!” She moved to his head, trying to lift it but lacking the strength.
His eyes tried to focus on her, but they grew heavy and even her cries seem to fade into the distance as he went still.
Brayok’s eyes opened again and his head quickly raised, the memory of the battle returning. Breathing rapidly, he found himself in the rear yard of the Security Force base; his eyes drifted down to his crossed arms and he saw Sparks curled up in them. As his mind tried to piece things together, he realized that somehow, she was the instrument of his rescue. His movement roused her and as soon as Sparks saw him awake, she launched up and tightly hugged his neck.
“Brayok! You're okay!” He heard her cry in relief. “I thought you were a goner.”
He paused at the unfamiliar feeling of such affection. “What happened?”
“I heard that monster say what she did to you.” Sparks wiped her eyes as she moved up to his face. “I swam back here as fast as I could and told my Dad, he sent a patrol out and deputized some of the largest Cetafolk to tow you back so you could be treated. A group of Skatefolk managed to suck the poison out of your arm and the medical team patched you up.” She stopped to catch herself. “But… you were still unconscious and no one knew if you’d survive; it’s been two days already.”
Brayok assesed everything given the information. “Scylla likely believes me dead; still, her home has been compromised, she cannot have the chance to relocate.” He tried to rise.
“Stop.” She pleaded. “I told my Dad everything, he’s mobilizing the entire Security Force to storm those tunnels.”
“Scylla will slaughter them.” He said bluntly. “I have to kill her for good.”
“You can’t!” She took the tip of his beak in her fins. “Look… I’m sorry about all that hero stuff, okay? You’ve done enough, more than enough… you’re in no condition to fight.” Her eyes watered as she spoke. “Please, I… I don’t want you to die.”
Brayok felt a rare shock at seeing a creature display so much worry and compassion for him; he struggled to respond, ultimately raising his claw and cupping her body in his palm. As she settled down, he held himself up on his other arm and looked down at her with a burdened sigh. “I aided my friend in a bid to conquer the surface world.” He suddenly began. “He tried multiple times to take control of the world, wishing to create a system where the strongest and fiercest among creatures could guide the course of things. He did this because he, like myself, were of the strongest and found ourselves constantly subject to betrayal and conspiracy by the weak who feared us. Our last battle was more a desperate attempt to bring the world back to one that we knew; living thousands of years you see much change, but you also see that you are slowly being left behind.” His mind went back to his last memories before the modern world. “We failed, and I was chained to the bottom of the sea to be locked away forever.”
Sparks recalled his resistance to her questions about his past. “So, you were a bad guy?”
“Concepts like good and evil were meaningless to me.” He shook his head. “Aurelian found himself lost in those concepts, but I fought for different reasons.” Brayok hesitated before speaking further. “When I told you I had no kind, I meant it. I am not a natural creature of the sea.”
“What?” Her eyes widened.
“Your puzzle analogy was not far removed.” He continued. “I was born of primal magics, created as a living weapon to be used to conquer the deep which was inaccessible and uncontrollable to the land dwellers. But those who crafted me found me to be just as uncontrollable; I killed them, refusing to be used by any creature. I retreated to the seas, but had no real home to return to; it left me angry and violent knowing that I was truly alone.” He growled at the memories he was digging up. “Soon enough though, I met Aurelian; we battled at first and he found himself impressed with my strength. I did not tell him of my past, or what I truly was, but he could tell that I struggled with my lack of purpose. We talked much and he shared his experiences and philosophies with me; in doing so I was finally able to decide a course for myself. The oceans were my domain even though not by nature’s design. I decided to use my strength as Aurelian used his own, to maintain order in the chaotic, warring world. I became a weapon that chose for himself how he would be wielded; and the Warden of the Deep was born.” He gave Sparks a far softer look. “You are now the only other living creature that knows the story of my birth.”
Sparks was greatly taken by what she just heard. “That means so much that you told me, thank you.” Her smile returned. “I won’t tell anyone, I promise.”
Brayok nodded. “Thank you.”
“I get why you wouldn’t want to be a part of the world now." She said understandingly. “You didn’t even feel like a part of your own time.”
“Perhaps, but my friends are making strides to find themselves once again in this modern era.” He continued. “I should not be afraid of doing the same. I will not let that hag destroy your city; this time I’ll make sure she stays dead.”
“At least let my Dad help you,” She offered. “You’re not alone now, if we all work together we can beat her.”
Pride aside, Brayok knew she was right about not being fully recovered. “As you wish.” He agreed.
“Great.” She swam over him. “First, I’m going to get you something to eat so you can get your strength back.
News of Brayok’s awakening spread quickly and once he was able to feast, he was visited by Silver Scale. “You had us worried.” He noted as he swam before Brayok. “My daughter especially, she refused to leave your side.”
Brayok slowly nodded. “I am grateful to her.”
“Something I can imagine a creature like you doesn’t say often.” Silver Scale responded with a light laugh. “I’ve spent the last days getting the Security Force ready to deal with this threat once and for all.”
“Scylla is unlike anything you’ve face.” Brayok warned. "And the Trench Maw's numbers are vast."
“Don’t underestimate us.” Silver Scale countered. “Just like the city, the Security Force brings together the best of what all the sea folk have to offer. Armor fashioned from broken down and compressed Shellfolk shell, weapons crafted from the deadly teeth of the Sharptooth, not to mention the physical power of the grandest of the Cetafolk.” He nodded surely. “We won’t let our city down.” He pointed back towards the base. “Speaking of which, even though your survival wasn’t guaranteed, I went ahead and rushed production of something you might find useful.”
“Show me.” Brayok, finding his strength after his meal, rose from the sea floor. He followed Silver Scale to the great storage hanger they had spoken in before where he found a set of armaments made in his size.
“I had a team take your measurements while you were out,” Silver Scale explained. “These should help protect you from that monster’s poisonous bite.”
Brayok took up the thick, shell vambraces and slid them on; he then put on the spiny cesti, clenching his claws into spiked fists. With an impressed hum, he hefted the helm and set it to his head, working his neck to check his mobility “Now these are a part of this new age I can identify with.” He noted with a rare smile. “What exactly is your strategy?”
“Well, considering I wasn’t sure if you’d live, I had intended to throw everything we have at that thing to bring it down.” Silver Scale began. “We’ve got a few toys our smiths have been working on, not battle tested but designed to give us an edge against the Trench Maw.”
“Such as?”
“We have some blunt defense weapons wrapped in the toxic cnidaria tendrils, should cause immediate paralysis.” Silver Scale began. “Harvested ink from the wild eight arm, good for blinding and disorienting. Even very experimental amplification rigs to weaponize Cetafolk sonar.” He sighed. “We’ve been working for years developing countermeasures against the Trench Maw, but honestly, we could never get any information on this Scylla creature. Now that we know it’s poisonous on top of all else… well, at least we’d go down defending our home.”
Brayok admired the resolve in his tone. “Fortunately, I am not dead yet. Focus your efforts on the Trench Maw, you leave Scylla to me. I know her new trick now, she will not have a second chance to end me.”
Silver Scale smiled at the declaration. “Fear is a hard thing for a soldier to swallow, especially an old one. Protecting this city is my job, but protecting my wife and my stubborn little girl is my life. My biggest fear in all of this is failing to protect them.” He looked up at Brayok with sincere gratitude. “I know I said it already, but thank you for fighting with us.” Brayok nodded in return. “Alright then, the main focus of the plan is to force those things out of that tunnel network. Our heavy hitters are useless unless we get them topside. We had a risky strategy for that, but with you back in the game we have another option.”
“That being?”
“The location of those tunnel entrances you found sits above a magma chamber.” Silver scale detailed. “It was mapped out some time ago for a scrapped project to harness geothermal heat; it was deemed too dangerous to pursue, ironically if we had proceeded, we would have found those blasted holes a long time ago." He noted with a sigh. "Anyway, Sparkle told me how you bored into those tunnels, if you can do it again but from below and rupture an opening into that chamber, the tunnels will flood with fresh magma and force them to abandon.”
Brayok considered the idea. “That is not impossible.”
“I’ll station my forces at the tunnels and as soon as they come running, we’ll start picking them off." Silver Scale continued. “They’ll lose the numbers advantage having to funnel out in a panic which will give us the edge we need.”
Brayok made a short, impressed laugh. “I could have used you a few thousand years ago.”
Silver Scale smiled. “Didn’t get this position with charm.” He laughed. “I’ll start to mobilize and have someone brief you on the location of the magma chamber.” Silver Scale swam from the building and Brayok followed soon after; as he emerged, Sparks zoomed towards him with excited eyes.
“So, what’s the plan?” She asked.
Brayok shook his head. “Not this time, this time you must remain here.”
“What?” She eyed him harshly. “But we’re a team and…”
“And you have done your part.” He stopped her. “I do owe you my life now, and that is not something I take lightly. Scylla is a dangerous and deadly opponent, I need to battle her without restraint; stay here where it is safe, as a favor to your teammate.” He gave her a light smile.
Sparks smiled back and nodded, drifting forwards and laying herself against the breast of his shell. “I get it. Just make sure you and Dad come back, okay?”
Brayok raised one of his tentacles and gently laid the end against her back.
Brayok was presented the information on the magma chamber and committed it to memory as Silver Scale rallied the body of the Security Force to mobilize. Well aware of the operation, the Council let the citizenry assemble to show their support as the soldiers swam overhead. The large shadow cast by the force flowed over the sea floor as they headed for the trench; Brayok had moved ahead and dived deep into the abyss, nearly all the way to the bottom which rested over twenty-five kilometers below the surface. Deciding his entry point, he braced himself for what would be a challenge even for him. Once again pulling in his limbs and head, he began to drill into the much tougher face and head inward. His tentacles sensed the slowly increasing heat which helped him gauge his proximity to the chamber wall; once close enough, Brayok began to bore upwards and as he passed the chamber wall, he used a few tentacles to break it open. The tunnel began to fill with fresh magma behind him and he forced himself forward as hard and fast as possible to stay ahead of it. He could feel the intense heat nipping at him as he pressed onward, knowing that slowing down in the least meant death. Finally, he broke through one of the Trench Maw tunnels and the magma began to split off into different directions as new pathways made themselves available; with the flow at his back slowed, he was out of true danger and pushed upward until breaching into the clear waters. The magma behind him emerged and quickly hardened, forming a cork that would keep the flow moving throughout the tunnel network until the chamber ran dry. Back at the trench, Silver Scale and his forces could hear the pained and panicked screeches of the Trench Maw coming from the tunnels.
“Here they come!” He aimed his fin at the wall of holes. “As soon as you see them, lay into them with everything you have! Cetafolk will take the first volley! The rest of you move in after and engage!” A chorus of acknowledgement followed his command as they steeled themselves. Like a mass of living vines, the creatures began to flow from the tunnel entrances; a volley of amplified sonar slammed into the stampede either killing outright or severely disabling. As more Trench Maw pushed past their fallen kin, the front line of the Security Force charged in to capitalize. Brayok began heading for the trench to support his new allies but halted his momentum as a deep rumble came from behind him. Turning back, he watched the ground rupture; as the rock and dirt blasted upwards, a multi-sourced roar of anger shook the entire area. From within the cloud of upheaved earth, the writhing mass of scales, eyes and teeth oriented itself in the water. An unidentifiable amalgam of six necks and two tails, Scylla aimed all her heads at Brayok with a shared fury across her combined gazes.
“You! How do you live?!” She asked angrily, voice seeming to drift from head to head.
“It seems I am as apt at cheating death as you are.” Brayok countered. “But no more, I will wipe the stain of your existence from the seas for good this time.”
“My little ones will devour you before you lay a claw on me.” She retorted.
“Your little ones and being dealt with as we speak,” Brayok informed. “The creatures of Pelagia you threaten are seeing to that.”
Scylla snarled and hissed. “You… I will…”
“Spare me your prattle, witch!” Brayok commanded. “Face your end!” He charged at her, balling his claws to ready his new weapons. Scylla coiled her body, using her tails to take the impact of Brayok’s fist. Four of her necks stretched out and attempted to bite him again, either meeting with his shell or his new protective armor. Brayok sank his beak into one of her necks and began restraining the others with his tentacles, all the while landing spiked blows into her coiled body. Yanking away with a pained roar, Scylla allowed her head to be ripped off by Brayok’s jaws so she could wind her tails around the base of his tentacle mass. Slamming him into the ocean floor, she pulled her other heads free and sped forwards at top speed; dragging Brayok behind her, Scylla wound and twisted in the water to batter him across miles of landscape.
“I’ll crack you open and feast on your flesh!” Scylla screamed back at him as she aimed him towards a large patch of jagged rocks.
Brayok desperately reached down and took hold of one of his own tentacles, using it to pull himself closer to Scylla’s tail; once close enough, he took hold and yanked back as hard as he could. Scylla was thrown off course and he was able to dodge the rocks. As he punched into her tail, she was forced to let him go but not before throwing him forward and sending him tumbling though the water. Injuries mounting, Scylla made the decision to try and flee; she quickly turned in the opposite direction and sped off, but Brayok was quick to orient himself and pursue. Proving to be faster, Scylla poised herself to escape until she saw several large forms approaching from her front. Six of the massive Blue Cetafolk cut her off with supporting ranks of Eelfolk and Sharpteeth at their backs and Silver Scale in their midst.
“Fire sonar!” He ordered, the Blue sending their amplified song at Scylla; it battered her body like invisible fists and halted her progress.
Brayok was able to catch up and took her from behind, binding her necks in tentacles and her body in his arms. As he chased after her, he noticed the shadow of a land mass above and quickly ascended in the water with Scylla in tow. Screaming and roaring in protest all the way, Scylla was dragged into the sun as Brayok breached water and hurled her onto the land. With no limbs, Scylla flopped and writhed across the dry soil. Brayok was on top of her in an instant, laying his weight on her chest and pummeling her necks and heads with his cesti. He felt a tail wind around his neck, squeezing tightly and choking him.
“Let me go or I’ll make sure we both die here!” She hissed angrily.
“I may be weak on the land…” Brayok began, reaching and taking her tail in his claws. “But I am still stronger than you!” He wrenched forward, ripping the end off and tossing it aside. As Scylla wailed, he left her body and dragged himself over to massive boulder; taking it in his claws, he hoisted it above his head and made his way back.
“Wait!” Scylla’s voice filled with dread. “Please… we don’t have to fight! You and I are creatures of long ago, we should be united in controlling the seas.”
“I have no interest in control.” Brayok said assuredly.
“Then what!?” She asked. “You’re nothing then, just an old relic whose time is long past!”
“Not nothing.” Brayok loomed above her. “I am the Warden of the Deep, and you are not welcome in my domain!” He brought the rock down on the base of her necks, silencing her for good. Staring at the fallen beast to look for any movment, he eventually sat back on his tentacles; taking a moment to catch his breath before sliding back into the sea. Once returned to the cool water, he gathered his strength and tracked down Silver Scale and the Security Force.
Seeing him return brought a smile to the old Fishfolk’s face. “Is it done?” He asked.
“On land her body will rot and the sun will bleach her bones.” Brayok stated. “There will be no regeneration this time.”
“Good to hear.” Silver Scale nodded.
“There is one head that was severed and left adrift, have your force track it down and dispose of it.” He added.
“Will do.”
“What of the Trench Maw?” Brayok asked in return.
“It wasn’t without casualty, but we were able to take them all down.” He solemnly reported. “The trench is a mass grave now, but those that lost their lives will be remembered as heroes. And with the tunnels flooded with magma and sealed off, whatever nests were inside are no longer an issue. The battle is won.”
“Indeed.” Brayok concurred.
“I will get the clean up under way and have that head hunted down.” Silver Scale noted. “I’m sending word back to the Council of our victory, you should head back too; I’m sure my daughter will be relieved to see you.”
Silver Scale headed off and Brayok returned to Pelagia; as soon as he was within sight of the base, a multi-colored blur came barreling at him.
“Brayok!” Sparks sped towards him. “You won!?”
“Yes.” He nodded. “Your city is safe.”
“Where’s Dad?” She quickly asked.
“Seeing to his duties, he is fine.” Brayok assured.
“Woo hoo!” She swam up and took her spot on his shell. “Score one for the Pelagian Security Force and its star player! The all-powerful and super cool, Brayok!”
Brayok actually smiled as she started imitating crowd noises, continuing to cheer him.
As the good news began to spread across Pelagia, relief came to the creatures of the sea with the knowledge that the threat was over. The Council immediately put in plans to give the Security Force a proper celebration in two days' time along with a ceremony to honor those who sacrificed themselves in defense of the city. Brayok remained at the base, hearing the sounds of joy and relief reverberate through the water as celebration commenced. Silver Scale had made his return as well, having delegated finalization of the battlefield clean-up to his officers. He swam up to Brayok, chuckling at the sight of his daughter proudly on his shoulder.
“Best sounds you can hear.” Silver Scale said with a light smile. “Always makes the battle worth it.” He looked over at Brayok. “Council has already got ceremonies and parades planned to keep the positive momentum. They’d like to honor you for what you’ve done.”
“No.” Brayok declined. “My journey is not done.”
“What?” Sparkle washed over with disappointment. “You’re leaving already?”
“I have to.” Brayok nodded. “My friends and I agreed to meet again one year after we parted ways. Time grows short and I must finish my travels across the oceans before then.”
“Understood.” Silver Scale swam before him at eye level. “Still, the Council wanted to offer you more than thanks. They wish to make you an official citizen of the city and give you a place here with us.”
“Wouldn’t that be great?” Sparkle asked. “You could finally have a home.” She gasped in excitement. “We could be neighbors!”
Brayok considered the idea with a light laugh. “Perhaps another time.”
“Whenever you feel ready.” Silver Scale nodded. “You’ll always be welcome here.” He saluted before heading back into the base.
Sparks followed Brayok to the edge of the city as he prepared to continue his travels. She rested on his shoulder again, looking out into the horizon with a bittersweet smile. “You really are going to come back sometime, right?” She asked, laying her fin to his head.
“I have little doubt that my travels will bring me back here eventually.” He said surely.
“When you do, you can come treasure hunting with me.” She offered. “It’ll be super easy to dig stuff up with you around.”
“I’ll try to muster some excitement for the prospect.” He smirked.
Sparks laughed and nodded. “That’s fair.” She smiled brighter. “Hey, do you think I could go with you sometime? To see the far oceans?” She stared into his eye. “I’d love to see it all, travel farther than any Fishfolk has before. There must be so many amazing things to see out there.”
Brayok realized that all his life he had swam the seas alone, not even his friends able to follow him beneath the waves. “There are as many dangers as wonders.” He noted.
“Don’t worry, if we get into trouble, I’ll bail you out.” She grinned.
Brayok chuckled with a lone nod. “Then I will show you.”
Sparks smiled wide at his acceptance. “Thanks.” She beamed. “So, while you’re gone, can I go ahead and tell everyone we’re dating. I mean, we practically are now.” She laughed as she watched his head cock and his eye focus on her in suspect. “Ha, I’m just messing with you.” She gently floated from his shoulder and kissed him just under the eye. “Take care, Brayok.”
Brayok breathed out a laugh. “Stay out of trouble, Sparks.”
Sparks gasped at the actual use of her name as Brayok propelled himself away from the city. She swam higher, waving at him as he headed off; Brayok glanced back to see her, allowing himself a quiet smile as he continued on his journey.
