Page 75 of Poseidon's Trident
“What the fuck? How do you know who I am?” I ask, taking another step back.
“I know many things.” He shrugs.
The words remind me of someone I used to know but he isn’t this guy. He’s too old and power pulses off him in waves.
“Who are you?” I ask.
“I go by many names but you are probably most familiar with the old man in the sea.” He grins.
Why does that name sound familiar? I stare at the man as I think back to Cross’ ancient history class. My eyes widen as it hits me.
“Nereus?” I ask.
“Yes,” he says.
“You don’t just show yourself to anyone though, so why me?” I ask.
I don’t trust it. The stories of the old man of the sea say he’s elusive and a powerful seer. Why would he seek me out? There’s no way the old man in the sea was drowning.
“I have my reasons, but mainly my curiosity about you won out over my need to stay hidden.” He shrugs.
“You were curious about me?” I ask, confused.
What is there to be curious about? I don’t understand why this old man who is usually elusive purposely sought me out.
“Yes, very curious. People have claimed that demigods were heroes in ancient times, but that wasn’t the case. Most of their acts of bravery were done for selfish reasons or to atone for some sin against others like Heracles.”
“You wanted to see if I would let someone drown to save my own skin?” I ask.
The very thought of doing that is disgusting to me. “I don’t know whether to be curious myself or insulted.”
“You risked much to come into the sea and rescue a random stranger. And you have yet to ask for anything in return.”
“You weren’t actually drowning.” I narrow my eyes.
“Of course not.” He chuckles.
“Not cool, Nereus.” I touch my necklace and stow my weapons.
“I’m not sure what you mean, my dear. It was a test to see if you are what the gods say you are.” He waves off my comment.
“And?” I ask, sitting on the sand next to him.
“Well, of course you passed.” He smiles.
“I’m so glad I passed your little test,” I drawl.
What the hell is it with the gods and immortals playing with our lives like they just have the right to do that? Artemis has done it and Triton too, leaving us in the middle of the fucking ocean. I cross my arms over my chest, annoyed that I played his little game so well.
“Don’t be angry with me, daughter of Zeus.” Nereus pats my shoulder.
“It’s Beth,” I say with a sigh.
“I know.” His eyes twinkle with mirth.
“Then why all the bullshit?” I raise a brow.
“I’m as old as time. I have to get my fun somewhere. You’ll see someday. Immortality is both a blessing and a curse.”
