The Legend of Tessalonica

    By Jairo

    The Legend of Tessalonica cover image

    29 Aug, 2023

    Many centuries ago, in the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, there was a legendary creature known as Tessalonica, the mermaid. Stories about her beauty and power echoed in every corner of Greece.

    According to the tales, Tessalonica was once a human, the sister of the mighty king Alexander. Her life changed dramatically when her brother discovered the Elixir of Immortality.

    With a small vial of the immortal water, Alexander washed Tessalonica's hair, hoping to grant her everlasting life. She was touched by her brother's love and cherished the gift.

    But, tragedy struck when Alexander died unexpectedly in a battle. Tessalonica was so distraught by the loss of her beloved brother that she jumped into the sea, hoping to end her life.

    Instead of death, however, Tessalonica was transformed into a mermaid by the immortal water. She was surprised and saddened by her unexpected fate, which was to live eternally without her brother.

    From then on, she roamed the seas and oceans, questioning every sailor she met about her brother's fate. Each encounter led to the same question, "Ζει ο βασιλιάς Αλέξανδρος?" - "Is King Alexander alive?"

    The correct response, "Ζει και βασιλεύει, και τον κόσμο κυριεύει!" - "He is alive and still reigns, ruling the world!" would grant the sailors a safe passage. Any other answer would transform Tessalonica into a dreadful gorgon.

    Many sailors lost their lives, unable to respond correctly to Tessalonica’s question. The news of this wrathful mermaid spread throughout the seafares, sparking both fear and fascination.

    However, a group of wise men, known as the "Σοφοί της Θάλασσας" - "Sages of the Sea", began to study the ways to pacify the mermaid and answer her eternal question.

    They spent many years deciphering the ancient texts in hope of discovering the correct answer. Their hard work finally bore fruit when they found the phrase "Ζει και βασιλεύει, και τον κόσμο κυριεύει!" hidden in a forgotten manuscript.

    After learning the precise answer, the Sages began teaching it to the sailors, ensuring their safe passage through the Aegean Sea. This knowledge became a beacon of hope for every mariner in Greece.

    Upon hearing the correct answer, Tessalonica would transform from a feared creature into a beautiful mermaid, singing melodious songs and guiding the ships to safe harbors.

    Tessalonica's story traveled far and wide, teaching the importance of knowledge and wisdom. Her tale instilled a sense of respect for the mysteries of the sea among sailors and citizens alike.

    Centuries passed, but the legend of Tessalonica, the immortal mermaid, remained. The memories of her human life and the love for her brother were as vivid as ever in her heart.

    Her question remained the same, echoing across the waters, "Ζει ο βασιλιάς Αλέξανδρος?" An eternal testament to her love for her brother and her yearning for the past.

    The reply of the sailors, "Ζει και βασιλεύει, και τον κόσμο κυριεύει!", became an unchanging hymn of the sea, recited with hope and reverence by every ship crossing the Aegean Sea.

    Tessalonica, the mermaid, the gorgon, the immortal sister of Alexander, continues her endless journey. Hopeful that one day her question will be answered differently and her heart would finally be at peace.

    As for the sailors, they continue to venture into the seas, carrying the wisdom of the Sages. With every correct answer, the legend of King Alexander and his sister Tessalonica lives on.

    Even today, the tale of Tessalonica is shared around fireplaces and dinner tables, teaching new generations about love, loss, immortality, and the power of knowledge.

    In the end, the story of Tessalonica is not merely a legend passed down through the ages. It’s a living piece of history, a testament to the immortal bond between two siblings and the everlasting power of hope.

    Each new dawn over the Aegean Sea awakens Tessalonica's hope, sparkling in her blue eyes. Each sunset bolsters her undying belief in the return of her beloved brother.

    So, let us remember Tessalonica, not just as a mermaid or gorgon, but as a symbol of eternal hope. A beacon of faith that shines brightly amidst the darkest waves of the sea.

    And let us keep her words in our hearts, passing it on to the next generations. For every echo across the Aegean sea of "Ζει και βασιλεύει, και τον κόσμο κυριεύει!" keeps alive the memory of a king and his sister.

    The legend of Tessalonica continues to shape the tales of seafarers, instilling respect for the sea and its mysteries. Her story remains a timeless reminder of love, loss, hope, and, above all, the power of knowledge.

    Amidst the captivating beauty of the Aegean Sea, Tessalonica lives on. Her tale, like her, remains immortal, spanning the test of time and the vast expanse of the ocean, echoing into eternity.

    The Legend of Tessalonica