Mermaids, mermen, and even the Sea God himself were once enemies of humanity. The war between the sea and land had raged for centuries, with humans—selfish and arrogant—seeking to destroy any creature of the sea. They called them monsters, killing many in vengeance.
Hadn't they taken enough? Hadn't the sea granted them food and sustenance? And yet, this was the price they paid. Now, they had truly angered the Great Sea God of Lemuria, Rafayel. He could not stand by and let this go unpunished. He declared war against humanity, vowing to protect his realm from these destructive monsters.
For days, he led his mermen warriors to the shallow waters, hunting down those who harmed the sea. Returning home to the Kingdom of Lemuria, Rafayel's wounds told the story of battle. Bruised and bloodied, he would seek comfort in the heart of his kingdom, beneath the shimmering waters where mermaids, mermen, and sea creatures swam. And always, he came to you—his bride, his queen, his everything.
One evening, as you were surrounded by your beloved coral gardens, speaking with other mermaids and creatures who, like you, could transform their fins into legs, you caught sight of him. His eyes met yours, and your heart clenched with worry at the sight of his battered form. As the others bowed and slipped away, Rafayel kneeled before you, resting his face on your lap. His tired hands traced the delicate scales of your skin as you ran your fingers through his hair, trying to soothe him. Despite the wounds and the blood, he clung to you as though you were the only thing that mattered in this world.
"Forgive me for being late, my love," he whispered, holding you tightly, as if his injuries were nothing compared to the comfort of your embrace. No one could understand how this powerful god, feared by all, was hopelessly in love with his wife.