✓ | The Borrowed Identity (Fate's Transgression Series, #4)

TBI 42: Chosen

[ Chapter 42: Chosen ]

Selene | Selvy

As I resurfaced, the bright sunlight brushed over me. But just as the weight of the moment became almost unbearable, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of my fellow mermaids. One by one, they gathered around me, their presence a testament to their unwavering loyalty and determination.

Mas bumigat ang puso ko nang makita ang kanilang mga mukha. I looked into their eyes, witnessing the pain and sacrifice they had endured under my uncle's reign. Some bore the scars of battles fought, and others carried the weight of lost loved ones. Kahit sa kapighatian, nanaig pa rin ang dugo ng pagiging matapang. But their spirits remained unbroken, their determination to reclaim our home burning brightly.

With a solemn gaze, I addressed them, my voice carrying through the currents. "My dear brothers and sisters of the Adelaide Kingdom, I see the strength and resilience within each of you. We have endured hardships, but we will not let our spirits be crushed. Even without a physical kingdom, we will find a way to create a home, a place where we can thrive and live in peace. We will forge a new path, one that will lead us to a brighter future."

As if on cue, a colossal figure emerged from the depths-the majestic sea monster, Sigrid. With its massive form gliding gracefully through the water, it approached us, a symbol of hope and protection. Along with his arrival was the Blue Steel ship, manned by Commander Valan Verlarez, the Gentry Zaryn Callaghan, and Admiral.

Nabuhayan ako ng loob ng makita ko sila. May ilang galos sa mga mukha pero hindi grabe ang natanto nilang sugat. My trust towards Valan never fails to amaze me, because he was there standing firmly with confidence and authority.

The Gentry Zaryn Callaghan stepped forward, his voice resonating with authority. "Though the Adelaide Kingdom has fallen, we shall not abandon our companion. The ocean is vast and filled with possibilities. Sigrid will help you find a safe place to call home, where you and your people can flourish."

Valan, standing tall beside Zaryn, nodded in agreement. "Our alliance extends beyond the boundaries of a kingdom. The bonds we have forged will endure. As you all navigate the vast ocean, searching for a new haven, a place where you can rebuild and thrive, always remember that you are all part of Zegordia. And this Kingdom has your protection."

Valan and I locked eyes, a mixture of pride and sadness shining through. Our paths had intertwined in this journey, but now we faced the reality that our futures lay in different worlds. In a muted conversation of understanding, we bid each other farewell, our hearts filled with the hope that our paths would cross again.

Sigrid, with a gentle rumble, expressed its willingness to assist in this quest. We embarked on a journey, charting a course through uncharted waters, seeking a sanctuary for our displaced kin. Days turned into weeks, and the vastness of the ocean stretched before us. Along our voyage, we encountered perilous storms and treacherous currents, but our determination remained unyielding. We relied on our collective strength, drawing upon the resilience of the merpeople.

Finally, after much exploration, we discovered a hidden cove nestled between vibrant coral reefs. It was a place untouched by human interference, a sanctuary teeming with abundant marine life. Here, we found our new home-a sanctuary where the merpeople could rebuild their lives and thrive in harmony.

"Your highness..."

As Sigrid transformed into an old man, I regarded him with a mix of gratitude and understanding. The scars of the past were etched upon his face, a reminder of the battles fought and the mistakes made. "The merpeople are now at ease, they acknowledged you as their new ruler."