Blackwater Islands Oh Comely

Akantha spent the few moments waiting for his answer by observing the sleek, rugged lines of his form, and appraising the sturdiness of his bones. But his build was thin, and would likely always remain coltish. She wondered who would chose him for the rites, and who she would chose to perform them. It had to be someone loyal—someone she could trust, and someone who wouldn't kill all of their male children. The key to her success was in the first litter, and raising the newest generation of Consorts her way. 

But she wasn't about to confess any of that to Whip, let alone the rest of the Nereides.

His answer came, small, and uncertain. She narrowed one eye thoughtfully, and allowed silence to spare her a moment to think. "Correct." She answered slowly. "But it also means you protect us; the territory, the sirens, our children. You may also, someday, be asked to sire a litter. In exchange, you are fed and protected in turn."

"We have a male rank—Epivitoras​. He alone is above the rest of the men, and leads them. The Matriarch also keeps an ear reserved for him, because he is often in a position to witness dissent. But it is a rank I will only bestow on someone who proves themself to be utterly devoted to the Nereides. It has never been given to an outsider." she explains with a small smile. "but, that may change soon."