Swan Lake was a vast body of water surrounding Strange Tales City, some fifteen to twenty li across. It owed its existence to the Southlands' abundant rainfall and was also the source of the Belsa River... Since the crisis in Strange Tales City began, a considerable number of Oddities had spread along the Belsa River. But that was the Southern Kingdoms' problem, and it had nothing to do with Annan's trip.
The Sphinx Wreck lay only two or three li from the outer shore, not particularly far. Otherwise, there would not have been so many survivors. But it was still much farther than Annan had ever sailed across the lake. The water there was at least dozens of meters deep—deep enough to submerge the Sphinx, which stood twenty-seven meters from keel to mast.
First, Annan had to sail into the perilous depths of Swan Lake. Then he would have to dive repeatedly to locate the wreck, board it, and search hundreds of rooms for the Lake Monster's true body: the Ship in a Bottle.
If only the Sea Siren were still here... Annan thought. She would have been right at home on the lakebed.
Fortunately, Annan had a true sage at his side.
"You still intend to do it yourself?"
Annan and the Skeleton King sat beside the bonfire in the tomb. The Burnt Girl and the Oddities were farther away.
"I'm the only one suited to it... What are you getting at?" Annan suddenly realized there was another meaning behind the Skeleton King's words.
"Swan Lake is a paradise for Oddities. One of them would have an easier time there than you."
Annan looked thoughtfully at the members of Oddity Prison.
Candle Head's flame nearly went out with a pfft. "Warden, I'll die the moment I touch the water!"