Ye've Done It

“This day, you reach the end of a story,” she continues, “and the last of its paths.”

Nice Day

Surfacing, they find themselves men once more, who, for the moment, splash about like happy children under the moonlit sky.

In Need of Assistance

Heedless of the warning, the burly seals spread out as they swim, until the spell around them weakens and they become human once more.

Vengeance Satisfied

The creature drags the struggling men deeper beneath the waves, finally tossing them aside in disgust.

Into the Deepening Darkness

The men paddle furiously, but the widening vortex is inescapable.

Womenfolk in the Water

Finding the dark water empty, the men quickly regret their course of action.

Begone!

The men push off, paddling the raft beyond the island and into the night.

Foiled by the Tree

The jaws snap shut over the shattered tree, launching the men out into the deepening darkness.

Getting Your Beards Wet

The orbs lead on, out through the cavern’s deep tunnels and beyond the island.

The Back Door

Following the glow of moonlight, the men step out eagerly into the night.

Complimentary Trip to the Afterlife

“Shouldn’t you be a bit more chipper, having won and all?” prods Steady Beard.

She's a Goner

Clinging to wooden barrels, they watch their beloved ship sink into the depths.

QUITE GOOD AT FLOWERS

“Quick, while we’ve a chance!” whispers Hasty Beard, leading the way to the boat.

Poor Beastie

With a piercing screech, the creature disappears back into the depths.

QUITE GOOD AT THROWING

“Great idea!” cuts in Steady Beard. “How about a demonstration?”

The Path of Waiting

“Time flows quickly in contemplation of the Great One’s splendor.”

…Bearded Travelers

The absurdity of underwater speech only adds to the wonder apparent on his face.

Thus is Thy Fate Sealed

With a rumble, the island sinks slowly into the sea, carrying all hands with it.

A Bargain to Make

“Right, then. Let’s be off!” commands Brave Beard, striking a leaderly pose.

Fountain of the Faithless

“Give me water, and I’ll teach it to carry me!”

Well Met…

“Er, hullo,” stammers Brave Beard.

Out of the Deepening Darkness

Collapsing, the maelstrom tosses the men in their barrels toward the surface.

The Long Way

“Really very sorry for scuttling your promotion and all that,” offers Steady Beard.

Wooden Trousers

“Aye, they’ll float,” nods Steady Beard.

Great Barnacled One

It’s dark inside the whale, but the men appear to be intact.