Chapter 40: The Black Sand

Water pooled in the sand by Ronan's feet as he held the Hellblade outward. The bright pink sun glimmered on the clear ocean, making the sludge creeping onto shore appear all the murkier and more disgusting.

Ronan expected his sword to pulse in his hand, and for his veins to go black, but nothing happened. He stood for a moment confused and with his sword drawn. A brief breeze nipped at him between his legs, reminding him of his nakedness.

Scindo and Illia broke out into a fit of laughter.

"Easy there, Black Serpent!" Scindo called out. "Observe that black sand a bit closer, won't you?"

Illia wiped a tear from her amber eye and said, "I think he's been a little too busy observing The Black Butterfly."

Ronan had jumped from the spring while he and Maritza were enjoying each other's close quarters company, and he was very much displaying his passion for Maritza outright. Maritza blushed and slid deeper into the water, hiding everything but her eyes, ears, and curly blonde hair.

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