Chapter 1

The sun was at its highest point in the clear blue sky. Down below, the Caribbean Sea dazzled brilliantly as if a million dancing stars twinkled across its surface. The wind was tame, lapping at the water ever so gently, creating minuscule waves that lulled the hull of the large pirate ship now cutting through the water.

The vessel was just like any other, with its various cannons, and woodwork finish. Unlike most, however, the sails on this ship were completely black, looking like an ominous sign in the otherwise perfect day. They lay limp now, occasionally billowing before becoming flaccid once more.

“Roll up the sails, men. The wind isn’t on our side today!” I yelled out, standing near the wheel of the ship, calling out at my crew. Immediately, the dirt-covered men obeyed my orders, climbing masts and swinging on ropes until the sails were neatly rolled against the masts. I grinned to myself, seeing how efficient my crew really was.

Finally, I looked away, glancing at the horizon, seeing sea and sky blend together. I narrowed my eyes, looking for something.

“Captain Slade!”

I turned around, addressing my first mate. “What is it, lad?”

“Do you want to drop anchor?” He asked, fixing the red sash he had tied around his waist. His fingers were knotted and full of grime, but after all, those were some hard working hands. Part of his pinky was missing, but he no longer seemed to notice as he continued to fiddle with his sash, ignoring me for a moment.

“No need. We’re sailing above the Coral Reefs. Do you know what that is?”

The first mate looked upwards, giving me a quizzical look. “No, sir.”

“Red Coral is the rarest of all corals. It’s rumored that little sea nymphs guard this place and if anyone dares to harm their precious reef, they board the ship and gut the crew like fish while they sleep!” I leaned in close, letting my voice drop as I recounted the spooky tale. The first mate gulped.

“That be just a tale!” He exclaimed, trying to convince himself that I was simply trying to scare him.

“Maybe…” I ran his fingers over my chin, feeling the pinpricks of my facial hair. “Maybe…” I repeated, dropping my arm. “But I’ve been here once before… and I can tell you, those creatures are very real.” I grinned at my first mate’s expression, patting him on the shoulder. “But don’t sweat it, lad. As long as you’re with me, no harm will befall you!” I gave a hearty chuckle, shoving him off.

I turned around, placing my hand back on the wheel, guiding the ship toward a small formation of rocks. It was currently low tide so most of them were on display, looking like a statue crafted by the hand of nature.

When the ship was close enough, the wind died down completely. The boat would no longer move on its own accord. Satisfied, I stepped away from the wheel and grabbed one of the ropes tied to the main staff. I yanked on it, testing its strength before I let out a loud shout, swinging off the boat and onto the rocks. I landed gracefully, a proud expression on my face.

“Sir! What are you doing out there?”

“Don’t mind me! I plan to wait for the nymph who saved me from drowning many years in the past. Wait for the wind to pick up again and guide the vessel around that bend yonder. I’ll be back by the end of the night!”

***

Hours passed and I found myself sitting idly on the rocks. I sighed, thinking of the beautiful nymphs called Oceanids. They were tiny creatures, with petite frames and delicate features. I smiled, thinking of the time I had been a naïve first mate. I had fallen overboard, with no knowledge of how to swim and quickly found myself drowning. The rest of the crew ignored me, thinking it was funny to see me struggle. In the end, just when I thought I would find myself in Davey Jones’ locker, a beautiful, woman-like creature swam up to me, kissing my lips and filling my lungs with air. It had been one of the best moments of my life and something I could never forget.

I had come to learn that she presided over the Caribbean Sea so I never hesitated to pay her a visit if I was in the area. Today, however, it didn’t seem like she would appear. Around me, the water was already beginning to rise. The wind had picked up, lapping at the rocks, threatening to pull me into the watery depths. Even now, I didn’t quite know how to swim. I would never make it back to the ship alive.

Finally, just as I was starting to get desperate, something broke the water’s surface. Strands of silver hair sparkled in the moonlight, getting closer and closer. Eventually, a face emerged. I smiled, instantly recognizing her. She was just as gorgeous as ever with her ocean blue eyes, button nose, and coral-colored cheeks. “Nixie!” I called out, waving my arms in her direction.

Her pink lips transformed into a radiant smile. I felt like my knees would buckle at any moment. My heart started to hammer in my chest. It was always like this whenever I laid eyes on the beautiful nymph. “Slade.” She whispered, her voice whimsical, casting soft lyrics in my direction. “Forever my bane.”

“Whatever do you mean?” I inquired, a grin on my lips as I looked down at the near-naked female. All she had to cover herself up were a few shells and pieces of coral. It was impossible to take my eyes off her.

“You know I’m forbidden to talk to humans, and yet, I always find myself coming back to you.” She giggled, the sound harmonious and perfect. “I’ve already saved you once, and by the looks of it, I might have to do it again. Father will be furious.”

“He doesn’t need to know.” I let out a hearty chuckle, winking in her direction.

“Oh, but when the heart yearns, it’s hard to keep secrets.” She said with a mysterious look in her eyes.