Life in the Shadow of War
Encura, a nation that prides itself on its freedom and unity, cannot escape the looming shadow of war. While the rebellion against Dragsa rages on the mainland, the Merfolk of Encura find themselves caught in a paradoxical existence—a fragile peace bought at the cost of another’s suffering.
A Peace Built on Distance
Despite years of conflict, Dragsa has never formally acknowledged Encura as a sovereign nation. Instead, its attention remains focused on the relentless fight against the Kutauri rebellion. This preoccupation grants Encura a semblance of peace, a reprieve that many Encurans view with mixed emotions.
For some, the isolation from the horrors of war feels like a betrayal of the shared struggle for freedom. They question the morality of enjoying safety while others bear the brunt of Dragsa’s wrath. Others argue that Encura’s survival depends on maintaining this distance, avoiding direct involvement in the rebellion.
Encura’s Role in the Conflict
Encura’s official stance is one of cautious neutrality. The Shoal of Protectors, Encura’s military force, is sizable but remains firmly stationed on the islands, tasked with safeguarding their shores rather than engaging in offensive operations. While the leadership avoids direct military intervention, Encura does provide aid to the rebellion. This includes sending food supplies to the Kutauri and offering refuge to those fleeing the mainland conflict.
However, plans to send an army to assist in the war have been consistently dismissed. The risk of provoking Dragsa’s full wrath and bringing the war to Encura’s shores weighs heavily on the minds of the nation’s leaders. For now, Encura’s soldiers are a defensive bulwark, ensuring the islands remain a sanctuary should the rebellion falter.
A Growing Detachment
Generations of Encurans have grown accustomed to war as a distant concern. For many, it has become an abstract struggle rather than an immediate threat. This detachment fosters a false sense of security, which some fear could leave Encura unprepared should Dragsa’s gaze shift toward the islands.
While some citizens advocate for greater involvement in the rebellion, others find solace in the current peace. They are reluctant to risk the lives of their loved ones in a conflict they feel is far removed from their shores. This division reflects the tension between Encura’s ideals of unity and the harsh realities of survival.
The Shadow Lingers
Encura’s fragile peace is a double-edged sword. It provides a haven for its people but also serves as a constant reminder of the rebellion’s cost. As the tides of war ebb and flow, the Merfolk must grapple with their place in the struggle for freedom—and whether their sanctuary can endure the growing storm.
Encura’s shores may seem tranquil, but the echoes of war resound in every wave. To live in the shadow of conflict is to tread the fine line between peace and peril, where every decision carries the weight of freedom and survival."
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