The Reefs

The currents have led you to the Reefs, an area of underwater caves and coral that many mers in the Gulf call home. While you and your father prefer to live further out on your own, the both of you have friends here that you visit often. You swim through the town center just outside the caves, waving at the mers running stalls or getting some early morning shopping done. Moving quickly, you head for a larger cave near the edge of the Reef. This is the home of some of your oldest friends, a set of mer triplets, their parents, and a smattering of younger siblings. You love the three of them like they were your brothers and you know the 'youngest' triplet, Demarcus, had gotten the injection almost a year ago. You hope that he may be able to help process your emotions and give you an idea of where to start looking for a potential mate.

"Good morning Victor!" a voice calls out and you smile as Barron waves at you from the cave entrance.

"Morning Uncle Barron!" you call back, not hesitating to let yourself be wrapped into his arms. He's the dominate out of the two parents and often treated you like one of his own sons. He originally from Jamaica and had met your Uncle Derek on a visit to the Reef many years ago. Your father actually grew up with Derek and had named him your godfather when you were born. You're glad they're here, normally they would be exploring the oceans with the older kids, but the birth of their youngest a few months ago had put those plans on hold.

"What brings you to the Reef?" Barron asks after a moment, pulling away from you to look you over, "You did not get into another fight, did you?"

"No Uncle." you say, smiling as you roll your eyes, "No fights, I promise. I... I just got some news and was kinda hoping Demarcus was here?"

His face fills with understanding. "He should be in the back with Leon and Jamal." he says, swimming out of your way, "Should I go find your father?"

You shake your head. "I won't be too long and I'll head straight home after this. Besides, he's got an important project today and it needs his full attention."

He nods and heads off in another direction, most likely to tell his husband you're here. Uncle Derek will definitely know your results and you really don't care if he does. He's always been good to you and he loves you dearly, he would have found out the next time you saw him anyway. You head to the farthest reach of the cave, grateful the younger brothers are out at the moment. You need some time with your oldest friends and godbrothers.