Drifting Toward the Future
The Founding of Encura
After Dragsa’s naval defeat, Selene Ö Nen emerged not only as a symbol of hope but also as the unspoken leader of her people. Though no title was officially bestowed upon her, her bravery and strategic genius earned her the unwavering trust of the Merfolk. Yet, amidst the adulation, Selene remained grounded, a figure of quiet resilience, known only to her three surviving foster siblings as the same sister they had grown up with.
The Search for the True Sirens
Guided by whispered legends of the true sirens, Selene led her people on a quest to find these elusive beings. The sirens, said to be ancient kin of the Merfolk, were believed to hold the wisdom and magic needed to secure a prosperous future. For a people scarred by war, this legend became a beacon of hope, a rallying cry for unity. Selene, ever pragmatic yet compassionate, allowed the search to unfold.
For decades, they swam the vast oceans, exploring uncharted depths and distant shores. Scouts and dreamers alike ventured into perilous and pristine waters, driven by a shared desire to unearth the truth of the myths. Yet, each promising lead turned to a dead end, and whispers of doubt began to ripple through the Merfolk. As the years passed, the legend of the true sirens remained an unfulfilled promise, and the burdens of leadership began to weigh heavily on Selene.
Her health faltered. Once a warrior of unmatched grace, she found herself slowed by an affliction that stiffened her limbs and spread stone-like patches across her skin. Even as her body grew frail, her resolve remained unyielding.
A New Horizon
The turning point came when scouts returned with news of islands near Kallonia’s shore—islands whose shallow waters and fertile reefs offered the promise of a permanent home. Selene, recognizing the need to abandon their fruitless search, gathered her people on the shore of one such island. As the setting sun bathed the ocean in hues of gold, she spoke the words that would define their future:
“It is time for us to shift our course,” she began, her voice a blend of sorrow and resolve. “The true sirens, if they ever existed, remain a mystery we may never solve. But let us not despair, for our journey was not in vain. Behold our new home. Behold Encura!”
When asked about the name, Selene smiled softly and replied, “It is in honor of those we have lost, so their spirits may remain with us forever.”
Construction began almost immediately. The island’s shores and shallow waters soon buzzed with activity as homes rose from the depths, woven into the coral reefs and rocky outcroppings. Encura began to take shape, not merely as a place of refuge but as a beacon of resilience and community.
The Birth of the Four Shoals
As Encura grew, Selene’s health continued to decline. Realizing her time was short, she summoned her three siblings. In her final days, she entrusted them with the future of their people and divided the responsibilities of governance among them. This moment marked the creation of the Four Shoals, a governing structure that endures to this day.
Each sibling took on a vital role:
- The First Shoal: To oversee the island’s defenses and maintain security.
- The Second Shoal: To cultivate resources and ensure the prosperity of the Merfolk.
- The Third Shoal: To preserve cultural traditions and foster unity among the people.
- The Fourth Shoal: To explore the seas, maintaining ties with allies and uncovering new opportunities.
Selene’s Legacy
Selene spent her final days in a small, humble dwelling on Encura’s outskirts. Though her voice faltered, she continued to listen to her people. They came to her with stories of their progress, their dreams, and their fears. Even in silence, she remained their guide, her presence a source of comfort and inspiration.
On the day of her passing, the waves seemed to hush, as if mourning the loss of a great soul. Though Selene never witnessed the full glory of Encura, those who knew her believed she didn’t need to. She had seen the spark of hope reignited in her people, and that was enough.
Today, Encura thrives as a testament to her vision. Its vibrant coral cities and harmonious way of life stand as a beacon for all who seek freedom and resilience. The Four Shoals continue to honor Selene’s memory, ensuring that her dream endures in the hearts of every Merfolk.
Selene Ö Nen—a name carried on the waves, whispered by the currents, and etched into the tides of history. Her spirit swims with us still, a guiding light beneath the ever-changing sea.
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