Victriva's Sacrifice: Musings on Fate and Destiny.

I look behind me at the horde of warriors and warriors-to-be, my loyal followers. I see the determination in their eyes, the fire that burns within them. I turn to face the ocean, looking out to our destination: a small island off in the distance. We have had many skirmishes with the neighboring kingdom, small raids in which we sought to steal some of their treasure. We were not there long, but we did manage to take what we could and get back to our kingdom before they could catch us. It is one of those raids in which I hope to find that which will bring glory upon me and my kingdom.

Of course, this has not been an easy journey for my people. My father, King Oceano, had led our people for years until his sudden death under mysterious circumstances - or so it was said. Many suspected that it was one of his wives who took him out. He did have five wives - all daughters from different kingdoms, though all from kingdoms that owed allegiance to ours. After he died, it was up to me as his eldest daughter to take up his mantle as ruler over our underwater kingdom. Initially I refused, but when it became clear that there was no one else willing to do what needed doing, I agreed to lead us into this journey. Now we are here.

I raise my hand high above my head, signalling my army to halt in mid-stride on their way towards the shoreline. The wind picks up my long blue hair and swirls around my body as if eager to join me on this mission.

"Warriors!" I yell into the wind with as much force as possible.

"We stand on the brink of greatness! Today we will show them who they should fear! Our last raid showed us that they have something that we need! From these shores they hoarded treasures beyond measure and now they shall pay tribute on this very day!"

My warriors cheer loudly in agreement but there are a few faces among them who look more serious than others; those who know exactly what lies ahead for us on that island - and for me personally. They nod at me solemnly as if warning me of what is to come but at this point there is nothing I can do about it. Those who want glory like myself would do anything - even give up our lives - for a chance at greatness!

I wave my hand again, causing my army to start moving once more towards the shoreline while I wait farther back with two of my trusted advisors so that I can survey everything from afar without being seen by anyone on land. When everyone reaches land and starts heading inland toward their target, I start walking forward with great purpose knowing full well that today's events will determine whether or not I am truly fit enough to lead our kingdom forward or if someone else should take over for me so that we can avoid certain disaster...