The sea did not rise in anger.
It rose in shape.
A figure formed from water and light stood before him.
"You are the first to listen," it said.
Its voice sounded like distant tides.
Arin's heart pounded. "Why does no one remember our city's name?"
"Because it was traded," the figure replied.
Long ago, the city had possessed a name of immense power — a word capable of commanding wind, storm, and tide.
The people grew proud.
They controlled the sea.
So the sea demanded balance.
In exchange for floating forever, safe from sinking, the city surrendered its name.
"To us," said the ocean.