Hunting Souls: Taking Flight (2)

Aida-4

Going to see the Zephyr was going to be a long journey and mean that I would get to be with Caleb. Unfortunately it also meant I would have to act like a Princess. I mean, I was part Pirate so maybe my Mermaid side wouldn't get in the way while I was sailing?

Maybe the Zephyr would cut me some slack if they realized I was part Pirate after noticing how bad my manners were and all... But then that would be a disgrace upon my kingdom.

I groaned and pinched the bridge of my nose, hopefully Caleb didn't think I had changed too much. In a way I had... Well actually I had changed a lot. Most of it was my mother's doing.

One thing that hadn't changed was my love for Caleb Souls. We had finally confessed that we both loved each other, but hadn't mentioned it since his return. I could honestly say that my love had deepened over time for him to where it was trying to burst from within me.

"Princess," Skye called from the doorway her sky blue tail flickering.

"Yes Skye," I answered.

"Your mother wants to speak with you."

"Oh, of course," I muttered and followed her to Sedna's quarters.

My mom was sitting on her ottoman looking at a shell as if she were extremely interested in it.

"You needed me mom?"

"Yes, I'm glad you're taking Skye along with you. That's a very wise decision."

"Thanks," I said awkwardly.

"I just wanted to ensure you'll make the right decision while traveling."

In my mind I felt she meant that as what to do with Caleb and not about how I was going to greet Saraphina.

"I will mom and I'm aware that I'll have to continue my duties once I return."

"Perhaps," she pursed her lips deep in thought. "We'll see what happens since you are the holder of the Ring."

I had no idea what she meant by that but if I had to take a wild guess it had to do with me ruling.

"Did you need anything else?"

"That'll be all Aida, have a safe trip."

Again with the formal/awkward convos...

"Okay, thanks your Highness." I bowed slightly before turning my back and leaving as quickly as possible.

Patch met me by the door with a new chain for my necklace.

"This will help control the Ring's powers we hope."

"Thank you, when does Caleb want to leave?"

Patch looked towards the surface of the water, "I imagine sometime tomorrow. The crew needs to rest tonight before they start preparing for this long trip."

"Patch what if I dishonor my mother or make a fool of myself while meeting the Zephyr? It's not like I've had very much training to go off of."

"Princess I assure you that you will do just fine. There are plenty of people who are more than willing to help you. Furthermore, you doubt your personality and spirit too much. As far as I'm concerned you are an extremely caring person who is willing to learn quickly. It's not like you are trying to disrespect anyone."

"Patch you're amazing, thank you." Once again I was glad that my mother had allowed him to be in charge of me. He was like the father I never had or knew.

"No need to thank me Aida, I'm just doing my job." He squeezed my shoulder gently before departing to help the crew get ready for tomorrow.

Jewel found me after diligent searching and begged me to tell her what had happened since they left. I told her everything from all the duties I had to perform, right down to the "marriage."

"You have to get married?"

"I think so. Granted my mother never remarried but she must be assuming that no amount of time will ever be enough for me to qualify as Queen."

"What about Caleb? He has been looking forward to coming back just to see you again. That's all he ever talked or thought about. Besides, your mom had married a Pirate, who's to say you couldn't do the same?"

"That's my dilemma. I only want to be with Caleb, but we all know I have to rule eventually and Caleb would not be able to remain here forever. I think that's why she wants me to marry a Merman, someone who will be around for my ruling. This may be the last time I get to see him," I ended sadly.

"We'll figure something out Alanna,"

"What if we don't?" My Ring started glowing a bright red but did not burn my skin.

"Alanna?" Jewel said nervously glancing at the amethyst.

I held it in my hand and tried to breathe deeply as it died out to a dull red color.

"What was that?"

"It feeds off of my moods."

"So like a mood ring but with power?"

"Exactly."

"Wicked."