Pushing away seaweed, a lanky merlon covered with ornate shell garments stood up from the throne. 'Welcome to Oo'regl, capital of the Ocean Realm of Szishh. I am King Barak. I am your King. I am your master.' He came forward, stroking more than walking, to glare at them. 'I am so glad to have new strangers. I get bored easily.'

His voice held a snarling hiss. 'We will eat. I command a banquet.'

Then from behind the tall throne, emerged another figure. A human living among the merlons, like Orpheon. Straight, jet hair framed a handsome face made all the more mesmerising by the man's unusual eyes - one green, one blue.. It was almost impossible to look away from him.

Azric.