Silver moonlight glinted on the surface of the water, setting tiny diamonds dancing on the surf. Aiden stood n***d on the sand, his sealskin draped over one arm. He raised his face, letting the salt spray cool his skin. He inhaled the complex perfume of the sea, letting it sink deep into his heart. How she calls me, the ocean, the mother. Taking several deep breaths, he steeled himself for the ordeal ahead. The moon frowned down at him, reminding him that when darkness held sway, creatures never seen by man made their way out of the shadows.
“Protect Lia, my Lady,” he prayed, “and let me face whatever end you’ve chosen for me with courage. I cannot get home. I can only swim away and die.” He slipped his sealskin over himself and plunged into the water. Staying close to the surface, he sca
