Colyn trudged over the rocky outcrop towards the Lookout, hands jammed in pockets and head bowed against the wailing coastal winds. The sea looked bleak and lifeless, mirroring the dull skies. Hardly a scintillating view to entertain him over the next few hours.

“About time too.”

The watchman on duty eyed Colyn as he entered the cold stone hut. Colyn shrugged.

“If you’re late again, I have no doubt the Commander will have something to say about it. Perhaps he’ll double your hours.”

The man rose from his perch on the bench and handed Colyn his spear.

“As if I’ll need this,” Colyn scoffed, “The sea is just as tame today as always.”

The older man shot him a reproachful glare.

“Underestimate the ocean at your peril, boy. Keep your eyes open or they’ll be plucked from their very sockets before you can say ‘sea savage’.”

Colyn rolled his eyes…