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Author’s Note: For this prompt, ‘Tempted’, I used a little plot bunny I’ve had for a while about a pirate falling in love with a mermaid. Something different and out of my usual writing style. Maybe a future novella idea.
Synopsis: Captain Vex has only ever known the seas as their home; born to the seas and destined to die onboard her vessel. She leads her ship and crew through vigorous adventures on the seven seas. Until one evening, they’re tempted to follow a lonely siren into the waters. Can Vex break their spell or die trying?335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUbndkKo1m
Too long had I sailed the seven seas. I'd never known a home on land, I was born to the vessel that carried my crew. When the time came, I'd land my arms down in battle and die honourably by their sides.
The waves carried our souls to the next adventure armed with nothing but a compass, but when the skies turned prussian, the constellations guided our way instead.
After several weeks of travelling, my crew grew tired and our resources scarce. As their Captain, I hauled our vessel to a small outpost island, blazing torches guiding me to safe refuge. I walked across the deck, turning to my first mate to give him instructions. He gathered several crewmates and headed off for supplies.
Alone, I walked the gang plank onto the island. A faint blue orb caught my eye.
'The Sirens are close,' a voice startled me. I narrowed my eyes at the old seadog, he reeked of ale. 'If I were you, I'd make port till morning.'
I ignored the drunkard's claim and assisted my crewmates back onto the vessel with their spoils. Once more I took to the ship's helm, the wheel feeling comforting in my grasp. As I looked up I noted a blue light on the horizon, beckoning me to follow. My will was not my own, I felt compelled to follow.
We set sail, following the ominous light until the skies illuminated with the same light. A faint song called out;
'Come seek us under the waves,335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3eqO33jT1
A treasure lies where we lay,335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmrk5SRwyrQ
But only two hours you have to play,335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFvGq3xSycU
When the prospects black,335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlIe7mTLv0R
There's no way back,335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMvoVLUsYu
You'll instead meet your grave.'
Despite the ill-advised words, I dropped the anchor and dove beneath the waves. Through the kelp I swam, following the dancing lights until I found myself face to face with the dreaded beast. A siren met my gaze and hauled me into an embrace.
If only I hadn't been tempted by her promise of treasure, I might've survived the night.335Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8uOfqKtvbY
