River Child emerged from the tales I absorbed while growing up in Jamaica. Throughout the island's rivers, whispers abound of a mystical, mermaid-like figure. Legend has it that whoever dares to snatch her comb will be blessed with unimaginable wealth. Yet, those who falter in the attempt face a perilous fate, meeting a watery demise.
My story
In my rendition of this legend, a curious child ventures into the rivers and stumbles upon a serene mermaid, her beauty belying the danger she poses. Ignoring warnings, the child brazenly snatches the comb from her flowing locks. Despite the mermaid's plea for its return, she reveals a merciless side, and the encounter takes a grisly turn, leaving a haunting tale of peril and gore in its wake.