Ninjago one shots (Jaya)

Little Mermaid Jaya AU💙💜

A/N: So this is now a series I guess. Disney au's. So this is the little mermaid one. So Nya is the little mermaid, Jay is the prince and so on. Lloyd will be his little kid self from the first season. I apologize for some of the cringey lines but oh well. This Au is approximately 10,708 words. I hope you enjoy this AU. The

The sea is calm and peaceful. Nya felt at home in the sea but something was missing. She loved to explore the sea for sunken treasures with her best friend, Lloyd.
"Nya, Kai will be so mad if he finds out you're not in the palace," Lloyd warned his friend. "Don't be such a guppy! He can't control me. Also it sounds like you're afraid of him," Nya teased.
"Of Kai? Pshhh, no. I just follow the rules. I know he's your brother and my friend but he still is the king," Lloyd reminded.
Kai became king once his parents had died when he was six leaving him to care for Nya all by himself. Ever since their parents death, Kai has made it a painful existence for Nya as she is forbidden to explore scrap left from ships.
"Yeah, yeah. But you're not gonna rat me out since you like adventure as much as I do!" Lloyd groaned. "Ugh, fine" Lloyd gave in with a slight smile. "But we have to be quick okay?" Lloyd pleaded. Nya nodded and they swam off to the ship graveyard.
———
"King Kai! The ambassadors have arrived," Zane, the king's adviser announced. "Thanks Zane," Kai said swimming down to the crustacean.
"Before we great them I must find Nya," Kai said. "She said she was going to find you a while ago; I assume she swam out for I moment. Now I it seems there is another explanation," Zane sank down ready for Kai to explode.
"I will see the ambassadors. And you, see to it that Nya gets home immediately!" Kai said sternly. He swam out of the throne room in a hurry. "Why me?" Zane sighed as he left knowing finding the princess was below his pay grade.
————
"Yo Lloyd! Check this out," Nya beckoned. "What is it?" Lloyd asked looking at a foreign object. "I dunno. Dareth might know," she suggested. The object was silver and long and had 5 prongs sticking out from it.
"This ship has everything. Look over there," Nya said swimming around in circles with glee.
Lloyd was starting to get antsy and paranoid. He thought he heard something but brushed it off as his mind playing tricks on him. "Nya we have enough let's go," Lloyd said.
"Oh come on Lloyd there's so much cool stuff here," Nya whined.
Lloyd heard another suspicious sound. "Okay am I the only one hearing that?" Lloyd questioned. "It's probably just turtles or something," Nya said.
The noises kept coming and by now Nya couldn't ignore it. "Yeah those turtles really like to laugh," Lloyd said crossly. "I guess they do," Nya laughed. "Nya! We both know turtles have a very bad sense of humor! Those are..." Lloyd was cut off when Nya yanked him by his fin. "Star Teeth!" They both yelled.
Nya held on to Lloyd as she swam. "Okay I know I'm small but this is ridiculous," Lloyd groaned. Nya ignored his complaints. "We gotta get out of her," Nya cried.
"Nya, there's a hole in the ship over there. We can escape." Nya moved her tail as fast as she could to escape the taunting laughs of the murderous star teeth.
They made it just in time as a starfish almost bit Lloyds face off. Lloyd let out a high pitched scream in terror. Once they were safe Nya looked at him concerned.
"What I haven't hit puberty I'll get there," Lloyd huffed. Nya just laughed. "I'm sorry," Nya apologized.
"Eh, that's okay. I've gotten us into trouble just as much as you," Lloyd assured. "Did you managed to keep the thing you found?" Lloyd asked. Nya nodded and smiled.
"Well let's hurry and find Dareth," Lloyd smiled.
The pair swam up to the surface which Kai had forbidden Nya from doing but she went nonetheless.
Dareth was just chilling out on a rock trying to impress a fellow seagull, Gale. "Check it out," Dareth said confidently, "I can impersonate a penguin right now." Gale looked at him like he was deranged. She flew off without saying anything. Dareth plopped down on his butt in defeat.
"Dareth!" Lloyd shouted. "Oh hey little green dude, Nya," Dareth smiled. "We have something," Nya said excitedly.
Nya held out the mysterious object. "Do you know what it is?" Nya questioned.
Dareth considered the object. "Oh this is definitely something that you have here," Dareth said inquisitively. "A dingle hopper," Dareth stated. "Folks use this to do their hair all nice." "Cool," Nya said holding the 'dingle hopper' in amazement.
"Good for when you need to look nice for an event or something," Dareth suggested. Nyas face went white. "Oh crap," Lloyd said facing Nya. "The ambassadors!" They shouted simultaneously.
"By Dareth we have to go; thank you!" Nya said diving back into the sea distressed. She was definitely in big trouble.
———-
Nya rushed to the palace. She swam into her room in a desperate attempt to seem as if she had been in it for hours. Kai burst into the room.
"Hey every heard of knocking?" Nya hissed. Kai crossed his arms with a stern expression.
"Where were you?" Kai asked his sister. Nya had to think quickly.
"I was with Lloyd and lost track of time," not actually a lie. Kai wasn't satisfied. "The ambassadors wondered where you were. You need a better excuse," Kai warned.
"Just lay off," Nya said. Kai scoffed. "I may be your brother but I am also your guardian and not mention your king," Kai reminded.
Nya rolled her eyes. "Your behavior has been reckless!" Kai shouted. "And you weren't at my age?" Nya questioned.
"Not like how you are. Besides I grew up. I expect you to do the same," Kai said Nya swam past him but he stopped her. "I can't lose you too," Kai said somberly.
Nya frowned. "You won't," she assured. "To make that certain no more ship wreaks. I know that's where you were. If I find out you have gone I'll have no choice but to confine you in the palace walls. I won't have anymore recklessness Sis," Kai told his sister.
Nya pushed him away and swam out of her room leaving Kai alone. He saw a painting of his parents sitting on the sea shelf. "Mom, Dad? What do I do?"
Zane crawled into the chamber. "Your majesty? Is everything alright?" Zane asked. "Zane I need a favor." Zane looked attentively at the king. "Yes?" "I need you to watch after Nya make sure she doesn't go to the graveyard," Kai ordered.
Zane was opposed to doing this but Kai was his friend and king so he had no choice. The crustacean leapt out the window of the princess room and sneakily followed her.
———-
Nya swam away from the palace angrily. "'Confined to the palace' he says. What am I a prisoner? He may have lost his sense of adventure but not me!" Nya said crossly.
Lloyd caught up with Nya. "So how mad was he?" Lloyd asked concerned. "I don't want to talk about it," Nya said.
The two, plus a stealthy Zane, swam through the kelp forest. They swam in quiet when they heard loud bangs from the surface.
"What's happening?" Lloyd inquired. "I don't know," Nya said. "I'm going to check it out." Nya knew it wasn't the wisest idea but she just really wanted to piss off her brother. Lloyd stayed below choosing to let Nya do this on her own.
Nya swam above the choppy blue waters. She was amazed to see a grand ship sailing above the ocean. She had only seen sunken ships so a fully equipped vessel was something to be behold.
Nya cautiously approached the ship.
From the vessel, fire was shot from the sky in various pretty colors. She used her upper body strength to pull herself into a rescue boat to hear all the commotion.
Men were cheering and men were dancing around in celebration. Nya carefully peeked her head up to see what was Hong on. She had never seen humans before so her heart beat with fear and excitement.
She looked around when she was surprised by a dog coming up to her an licking her face. She giggled and scratched the strange animal behind its ear.
Dareth landed on Nyas shoulder startling her but the dog continued to give her attention. "Dareth you scared the heck outta me," Nya hissed. "Sorry sweetie. I'm just as surprised. I've never seen you round humans," Dareth noted.
"First time so shh," Nya quieted him.
"Cole?" A voice called from across the ship. Nya looked further on board. She could see two legs walking towards the fluffy animal. "What're you doin over their bolder brain?" A male voice could be heard as he giggled.
Nya hid as the man approached too close for comfort. When his voice moved away from the edge Nya looked up to find the owner of the voice.
She was faced with a man with dazzling blue eyes, that could just make you instantly trust him, curly and messy auburn brown hair, adorable freckles painted across his cheeks and nose, and a charming smile.
Nya was immediately taken away by him. "Have you ever seen anyone so handsome?" Nya asked. She was wondering what she was saying since she was never one to swoon for a guy.
"The dog? I'm seriously questioning your taste kid," Dareth commented. "Not the dog, him" Nya directed Dareth to the boy. "Oh," Dareth realized.
———
Meanwhile, in the deep trenches of the ocean a plot was forming. A glass orb held the image of Princess Nya peering into a ship.
"This is perfect," Kalamar smirked. "What is sir?" A henchmen asked. "The kings sister is in love with a human it couldn't be any more perfect. I can finally exact revenge on the royal family. Nyad may have taken my throne but this little mermaid is my ticket."
"I'm still confused," the henchman confessed. Kalamar groaned. "You fool! All I need is a chance for the girl to come here and make a deal. And that includes my favorite past time. Sinking human vessels!" He cackled.
"But sir the boy could die including the princess," the henchman warned. "If it comes to that I have a back up plan but it won't. I fully expect this head strong teenager to save the boy," Kalamar smirked...
————
"Jay," a man called. "Yeah?" Jay smiled. "We need to talk," the man said. "Oh, Cyrus that never has a good follow up sentence," Jay joked.
"What happened with Princess Vania?" Cyrus asked.
"Not this again it's my birthday can we give it a rest just for today?" Jay pleaded. "Yes this again it's my responsibility to find you a wife!"
Jay sighed. "First off. Vania is now a queen, she is an independent woman, she doesn't need me. And second, we're friends we don't need to be married to make a treaty. And last off, I don't love her. I want to marry someone I love," Jay swooned.
Cyrus sighed. "Very well your majesty," Cyrus smiled plainly in defeat. "I know she's out there Cyrus. And when it happens it'll be like lightning!"
Jay should have watched his mouth. A storm appeared just out of nowhere. "Storm!" The crew shouted. "The storms approaching too fast," a crew member yelled.
Lightning struck the bow of the ship setting the ship ablaze. "Abandon ship!" Jay shouted.
Nya quickly got out of boat.
The men hurriedly got into the lifeboats. Jay was about to when he heard Cole barking. He jay ran on the deck as fast as he could. "Cole! Jump into my arms," Jay instructed. Cole jumped onto Jay.
Jay turned to make their escape but his entrance was now covered in flames. Jay had no choice but to throw Cole into the water.
Cole struggled to swim to a life boat. Nya threw caution to the wind and assisted Cole onto a boat.
Jay was relieved to see his buddy safe.
"Jump your highness!" Cyrus yelled. Jay attempted to jump but he was knocked in the head by one of the ships beams, and fell into the ocean, rendered unconscious.
The crew cried out for their prince but it was no use. The waves forced them to move to shore or else no one would survive.
Nya swam down to see the prince. She wrapped her arm around his waist and the other around his arm. She was in such a hurry to save him she didn't realize how muscular he was.
Nya swam above the water realizing the downside of gravity. She swam as fast as she could.
By morning she got to shore. She found a private beach where a castle stood above on a hill. She laid him on the sand.
Dareth landed next to Nya staring at the boy. "Hey kid how is he?" Dareth asked. "I don't know."
Dareth lifted up the boys foot and placed his head against it. "No heart beat," Dareth sighed. "No he's breathing," Nya smiled. She listened to Jay breathes as he started to wake up.
Nya began to hum a song her mother used to sing as she played with the boys hair. Jay batted his eyes. His vision was blurry but he could faintly make out a girl singing.
Jay tried speaking to his mysterious savior but she quickly vanished when he heard guards in the distance.
He tried getting up but he was too weak. He couldn't move.
Nya watched as palace guards rescued the prince off the beach. Nya smiled contently. She swam back down into the sea thinking of him.
...
Nya was swimming peacefully when she was stopped by Zane. "Zane?" Nya questioned. "You are in so much trouble!" Zane warned. "A human?" Nyas face went blank. "You can't tell Kai please Zane please?" Nya pleaded.
Zane sighed. "What's so good about humans anyway?" Zane questioned. "They're amazing," Nya swished her tail happily. "Nya the sea is a wonderful place it's where you were meant to be. What else could you need?" Zane smiled.
Nya groaned she knew what was coming next. "Let me tell you the statistics," Zane began...
———
Jay woke up in his bedroom with a headache but a smile on his face. He promptly sat up. "Who was she?" He said silkily.
He got out of bed and headed down to the dining room. His mother was sitting down at the head of the table conversing with Cyrus.
"Queen Edna, it was incredible I'd never seen a storm conjure so quickly and profoundly," Cyrus remarked.
"It was pretty crazy," Jay added. "Jay!" The queen came running to her sons side. "You should be in bed dear," his mother warned.
"I'm fine," Jay smiled awkwardly as his mom hugged him. "Your mother is right it's a miracle you survived," Cyrus stated.
Jays face lit up. "It wasn't a miracle; a girl saved me," Jay smiled softly. "A girl?" The two questioned simultaneously.
Jay nodded. "She was the most beautiful girl I've ever seen. And her voice too. And she was strong she pulled me from the shipwreck."
The queen and adviser gave each other strange looks. "I think you've gotten too much water in your brain my prince," Cyrus remarked.
Jay frowned. "Oh Honey I believe you." "Thanks Mom." "But I want you to get rested no more leaving until you are fully healed," queen Edna ordered. "But Ma!" Jay protested. She gave her son a knowing look. "Go on," she smiled. Jay left but his thoughts couldn't have been more filled with his mystery girl.
"I will find her," Jay said to himself.
———
Nya sat impatiently on a rock playing with her shiny blue tale in the meantime. "Reason 342," Zane went on. Nyas eye twitched. Lloyd sneakily came up behind her and directed for her to follow. "Nya the cave," Lloyd said.
Nya smiled great fully. She made her escape hastily . Zane continued but when he turned around the princess was gone. "Someone has got to nail that girls fins to the floor," he signed.
...
Lloyd and Nya had a secret cave where they kept all of their sunken treasures. "I have a surprise," Lloyd smiled. Nya cocked her brow.
The two swam into the cave and Nya was enchanted to see a statue of the boy she had rescued.
"Lloyd it looks just like him," she said with joy taking Lloyd by his small fins and hugging him. "Don't get emotional. I don't get the hype of liking people. Besides you, if I see one girl in here I'm gonna go ballistic," Lloyd said sternly.
Nya giggled and swam up to the live sized statue. "It has his freckles too." Nya swirled around it. "Prince Jay a dance? Of course," she smiled but was startled when a familiar crustacean appeared.
"Zane!" She said blocking the statue. "What is this place?" Zane asked shocked. "Ummm."
"Please Zane this is all I have. You know what will happen if Kai finds out," Nya whined. Zane sighed. "I'll do my best to keep your secret," Zane smiled. Nya hugged him gratefully.
——
Days had passed since the rescue. Nya had visited the palace secretly every night. And each night she fell deeper in love, little did she know the prince too was head over heals in love.
Kai picked up on her strange behavior as well as the palace inhabitants.
"What's going on with her?" Kai questioned his girlfriend Skylar, seeking a woman's advice. "Permission to speak freely?" Kai frowned. "You're my girlfriend you don't have to ask that." Skylar laughed. "It's obvious," she smirked. "What is?" Kai asked dumbly. Skylar sighed. "She's in love," she gushed. "In love? My little sister?" His girlfriend nodded. Kai smiled. He thought this might the perfect opportunity for Nya to find other hobbies.
...
Kai sat on his throne when Nya passed by. "Where you off to?" Kai questioned. "Not the graveyard," Nya provided. "I know," Kai smiled sweetly. "Seriously I have to go," Nya said. Kai nodded. Nya gave him a kiss on the cheek and swam off giggling.
He didn't know that she was off to her secret cave.
Kai sat back on his throne. Zane entered the room and bowed. "Oh Zane! You're just the person I was looking for." Kai smiled.
Zane gulped. Everything is fine he told himself.
"Yes?" Zane said robotically. "Have you noticed anything strange about Nya?" Kai smirked knowingly. "Nya? Strange how?" Zane said trying his best to keep her secret.
"My little sis is in love so tell me who is this man? Is that where she is off to?" Kai asked.
Zane couldn't keep it to himself. He was bound to the rules of the law, telling the king lies was treason. "A human prince, she's off to her secret cave where she has a statue of him," Zane said tonelessly. He felt guilt but also relieved.
Kai's face boiled up with anger. "A human!" He roared. "Take me to this cave now!" Kai demanded. He had never spoken to Zane this way before. Zane was taken aback but he obeyed and led the king to the secret cavern.
——
Nya stared into the statues eyes. "Imagine being able to see all the wonderful things above the sea," Nya said to Lloyd who got himself stuck in a barrel. Nya laughed and pulled him out.
"Yeah wonderful," Lloyd said dizzily.
Nya swam back to the statue and smiled.
She was interrupted when she heard Kai's voice booming into the cavern.
Lloyd swam straight back into the barrel. Zane was standing below Kai's tail. "Kai!" Nya shrieked.
"A human?" Kai asked furious. "Zane you promised," Nya said feeling betrayed. "You directly disobeyed me!" Kai shouted.
"Kai, he was drowning I had to save him!" Nya yelled in protest.
"You are forbidden from ever coming back here! And you will stay in the palace until you can be responsible," Kai declared. Nya swam back. "No," Nya said. "No?" Nya nodded.
"He should have drowned," Kai barked. Nyas eyes lit up in fury. "Not all humans are monsters," Nya shouted. "Humans killed our parents he would kill you too," Kai yelled.
Nya shook her head. "No he wouldn't he would love me like I love him!" Nya blurted out.
Kai's face turned to pure anger. "Enough!" He took out his trident.
"Kai what are you doing?" Kai directed a beam of fire to a shelf in the cavern destroying it entirely. Nya screamed in terror. "Stop!" Nya begged.
Kai was angry he destroyed everything until the statue was the only thing standing. "Please, no" Nya pleaded.
"You give me no choice," Kai roared. "No!" Nya yelled trying to grab the trident but Kai already fired it at the statue. It broke into pieces.
Nya screeched and swam down to the statue.
"How could you?" Nya cried. Kai's face stayed stern. "I expect you to be home shortly after," he said emotionless. "Zane see to it that she gets back," Kai ordered and left Nya frantically putting the pieces back together.
Nya cried angry tears. "Nya?" Lloyd tried to comfort her. "Go away, you too Zane," she sobbed.
——-
Kalamar cackled. "Yes it's too good!" Kalamar smirked. "Gripe, Glutinous! Go bring her back to me." Gripe nodded and the two sea serpents swam off to the cave.
——-
Nya sat on a rock in the once treasured cavern. "Betcha on land they understand they don't, reprimand their sisters." Nya sighed. "Bright young women sick of swimming."
Nya was once again startled by a noise. "I told you guys I want to be alone. Especially to you Zane!" Nya yelled.
Two sea serpents came from the shadows. Nya was taken aback. "Who are you?" Nya asked angrily.
"We're Kalamars henchmen," one answered. "Kalamar? The sea witch?" Nya asked. "Get out of here," Nya demanded. The serpents smiled in unison.
"But how will you ever get to be human without him? Oh well I guess you don't really want that," Glutinous manipulated.
"Wait," Nya said. She knew it wasn't a very smart decision but she couldn't stay here anymore. She'd be a prisoner in her own home.
"Take me to him," Nya said. The serpents smiled. "This way my dear," Gripe directed.
They left the cavern behind. "Nya what are you doing with these criminals?" Zane questioned. "I'm going to see Kalamar. Why don't you tell my brother? You're good at that," Nya swam off.
...
They arrived at a castle that looked abandoned. "This way," Glutinous directed. Nya swallowed her fear and followed the serpent.
"It's rude it lurk in hallways," a voice echoed from the depths of the castle.
Nya hesitated but swam through the corridor. She swam into a room where the voice originated.
The room was decorated in voodoo and magical looking items. Nya was taken aback by the appearance of the sea sorcerer.
"I hear you want to be human," Kalamar smirked. "How did you know that?" "Oh my dear I know everything. I'm the eyes and ears of the ocean," he chuckled. "That's a bit creepy," "What was that?" "Nothing," Nya smiled.
"You want to be human or not?" Kalamar questions. Nya gulped. "Can you really do that?" Kalamar nodded. "But why would you help me?" Nya asked.
"It's what I do. What I live for," Kalamar grinned "to help merfolk." "This feels wrong," Nya said to herself.
"You poor unfortunate soul. The royal family never lets you do what makes you happy?" Nya looked at him surprised. "You can relate?" Nya inquired. "This is about you, not me," he switched the topic. "Besides your brother would never let you be with princey. Not to mention with that tail," Kalamar added.
Nya looked at her tail. She had to admit he was right.
"What do I have to do?" Nya asked. The sorcerer smirked. "It's simple really, I'll turn you into a human. For three days. Got that? Three days. All you have to do is get the prince to kiss you. And the spell will be permanent. If you fail to achieve this... you will be chained to the sea and in service to me."
Nya felt conflicted. "But I'll never see my brother again and if I don't succeed I'll" "Life's full of tuff choices, isn't it? But aren't you chained to the sea forever as it is?" Kalamar reminded.
Nya thought about it. This is her one chance to make her dreams of walking on land true, it was just a plus it involved an adorable guy. "Okay," Nya said.
"No!" Zane cried but Lloyd pulled him back in fear that Kalamars henchmen would attack them.
"This kiss has to be one of true love remember that okay?" Nya nodded.
"Now the matters of discussing your payment." "Payment? I don't have anything," Nya whined. "You have exactly enough," Kalamar grinned. Nya shrugged. "Your voice!" Kalamar revealed.
"My voice but how will I ever-" "It wouldn't be true love if you could use that siren voice of yours! Besides men don't like conversation. They think a woman who gossips is a bore. And don't underestimate the power of body language," Kalamar laughed.
"So we got a deal?" Kalamar asked. Nya nodded, "Yes." "How does this spell work?" Nya asked. "I just need some blood. A scale," Kalamar beckoned. Nya pulled off a scale from her tail. "In the bowl," Kalamar nodded. Nya put it in and the bowl erupted into a cloud of purple smoke.
Kalamar began chanting a magical incantation.
Nya knew now that there was no going back.
Nya began to transform. Her once beautiful blue tail split into legs. She was horrified when she started having trouble breathing.
Zane and Lloyd helped Nya out and up to the shore as Nya adjusted to swimming with legs.
"Sir what if she actually manages to succeed?" Gripe worried. "I added a little something in that spell. She won't remember about the kiss. There's no possible way for her to succeed," Kalamar cackled.
———-
Nya got above the water just in time as she took a deep breath. Nya gasped for air. The whole situation hadn't fully resonated with her yet. Lloyd helped her to the shore after a painstaking amount of time as Nya was learning to swim.
They all caught their breaths.
"What were you thinking?" Zane shouted. Nya opened her mouth to speak but she remembered she couldn't.
"Now we have to get you out of trouble," Zane said crossly. Nya smiled.
Just like clock work Dareth appeared. "Hey Nya! Greeny, crab," Dareth said landing on Nyas knees. "Something's different," Dareth remarked. Nya smirked. "You've been using the dingle hopper haven't ya?" Nya chuckled and shook her head.
"I can't place my foot on it," Dareth said tapping his foot. "She's got legs you dummy," Lloyd shouted.
"Oh look at that, you do. And I'd prefer if I was referred to as SenseĪ Dareth," Dareth squawked.
Lloyd and Zane rolled their eyes. "Nya you're being quiet," Dareth noticed. "Nya has lost her voice," Zane admitted. "You sick or something. I think I might be coming down with it too."
"She made a deal with the sea sorcerer."
...
Zane explained what Nya had to do in order for her to keep her legs and regain her voice. "Well Nya you're gonna need some clothes. Those humans don't go O'natural," Dareth advised.
"Pretty sure I saw some folks skinny dipping back there I'll be right back," Dareth said with a confident grin.
Dareth came back with casual women's attire. It was a simple white dress. "Let me tell you they were not happy," Dareth said coughing up some of his own feathers.
"So this is a great start," Lloyd said. "I do not see how this is a great start Lloyd," Zane said. Lloyd groaned. "I was being sarcastic."
The group was talking about solutions while Nya attempted to walk. Every time she stood she fell to the ground. She was not deterred.
She managed it make it a few feet when she tripped on a rock. She rested on it for a moment catching her breath.
Suddenly, a fluffy black haired dog started running in her direction. The dog leapt onto her in joy. She stroked the dog behind it's ears. "Cole?" A man called. Nya shrunk behind the rock. It was a palace guard. "Miss?" They asked gently. Nya hesitated but came out from hiding but quickly fell from the impact of gravity.
"I better bring you to the palace, are you from a shipwreck too?" Nya thought about it and it was a good cover up. She nodded. "What's your name miss?" Nya frowned. She tapped her throat with her hand and shook her head.
"You can't speak?" The guard asked. Nya shook her head. "You must've gone through a lot," the guard said. Nya shrugged. "The queen will know what to do," he smiled. "By the way I'm Nelson," the young guard smiled.
...
Nelson brought Nya to the castle. He lead her into the kitchen where all staff entered and exited.
"Antonia!" Nelson yelled. "Whaaaat?" Antonia whined. "Another missing person from a ship wreak," Nelson nodded towards Nya.
"Geez. Well what's her name?" "We don't know she can't talk. I figured bring her," Nelson said.
"Good idea," Antonia commented.
"How about we get you fixed up?" Antonia smiled warmly.
Nya was led through the palace into a room with an ocean view. "The castle has a bajillion rooms you can have this one," Antonia winked.
Nya smiled. She had never seen a room so simple but beautiful at the same time.
Palace maids rushed in. "I think our new friend here needs some new clothes and," Antonia whispered, "a bath."
The maids cleaned Nya. It wasn't her favorite experience. After attempting to eat the soap she got weird looks. She got the hang of it and the bubbles smelled good.
Once Nya was clean she was presented with a blue kimono dress. It was silky and had floral patterns. The dress flowed beautifully and felt amazingly soft on her skin.
Nelson entered the room once he got the okay. "The queen is absent but the prince is here. He was hoping to meet her," Nelson said.
"Sweet," Antonia smiled. "You don't mind if the prince talks to you right?" Antonia asked. Nya shook her head. She was more than anxious to meet him.
Nya waited promptly in her new room when she heard footsteps approaching.
The prince stumbled in, being the clumsy person he was. Nyas heart skipped a beat. He was even more handsome up close.
His eyes peered into hers. His heart started to race. He couldn't speak for a moment until Nelson snapped him out of it. "I'm sorry about what happened," Jay said sympathetically.
"What's your name?" Jay asked. "She doesn't speak," Nelson whispered. Jay sighed in disappointment.
The girl who had saved him sang beautifully. This girl was beautiful but she couldn't be the one. She has no voice!
"Well you are welcome to stay as long as you wish, excuse me," he pardoned himself.
Nya stood their sadly. She looked at the maids having a conversation.
"He's been acting strange since the wreak. He's been searching for a mystery girl. Seems he's in love," a maid whispered.
This gave Nya hope but she plopped onto the bed which was so soft Nya just wanted to lay down for ever.
"Alright give her space you should get some sleep," Antonia advised. The staff left Nya to rest.
Zane crawled his way up to Nyas room.
"This building is not compatible for crustaceans," Zane huffed.
"We need to get you that kiss," Zane sighed. Nya cocked her brow. Zane thought she was messing with him. "The kiss you need to keep the spell permanent?" Zane tried. Nya still had a look of confusion on her face.
"That snake," Zane frowned. "Nya we have-" Zane began but Nya fell asleep. Zane sighed but knew she was exhausted it was for the best she slept for a while.
...
Nya yawned as she awoke from her nap. Zane was curled in a blanket. She got out quietly balancing on her new toes.
She snuck out of her room. She couldn't help but explore. She was somewhat disappointed in herself for sleeping as she had taken up some of her time.
Nya happened to find a door unlocked and went in. Inside she was ambushed with blue prints and strange metals and gadgets.
Nya wondered around the room. She fell in love instantly with the idea of creation. She spent over thirty minutes exploring this room.
She traced her finger across what seemed to be blue prints for a ship that was labeled in a language she could not read. She was startled when the door cracked open. She ducked down behind the table.
"Hello?" A voice called out. Nya kept quiet. "I know someone's in here. It's okay to come out," the princes voice was recognized.
Nya slowly revealed herself. Jay jumped back . "Oh it's you," the prince smiled.
"No one ever comes in here," Jay confessed. Jay walked up to Nya. "They aren't very good," Jay blushed. Nya shook her head in protest and tapped her finger on the ship blue prints.
"You actually like this stuff?" Jay smiled. Nya nodded happily. She pointed to the words. "Destinies Bounty," Jay said proudly.
"One day I hope to make it the greatest ship to set sail, not that my mom or anyone else would ever let me out of the palace ever again," Jay started blabbering.
"Oh sorry I'm rambling," Jay apologized. Nya put her hand on top of Jays which caused him to blush madly.
He cleared his throat. "Sorry you're just really easy to talk to," Jay admitted. Nya smiled. She related to Jays predicament. She too was trapped in a palace of her own, well, was.
Nya got up an pointed to a map. Jay looked over it.
"That's the kingdom," Jay smiled. "I know it like the back of my hand," Jay confessed. Nya looked at him with interest. "I could show you around tomorrow?" Jay offered. Nya nodded with anticipation. Jay smiled. He couldn't look away from her. She really was beautiful. She had dark brown eyes, raven black hair, and a beauty mark right above her lip.
"Your highness," Cyrus called into the room. Cyrus smiled at the sight of the two. "Do you still want me to send out those carriages?" Cyrus asked.
"Save one," Jay said. "I'll need one to give a tour of the kingdom." "You're on bed rest Jay," Cyrus reminded the young prince. Jay pouted making Nya laugh.
"Oh all right," Cyrus caved. "Best rest now," Cyrus insisted. Jay smiled. "I'll see you in the morning," Jay said kissing Nyas hand. Nya blushed as Jay left the room.
Jay headed for his room and when he arrived he collapsed onto his bed blushing profusely. "Why did you do that Jay? You're so weird!" Jay groaned.
Nya was excited for the day. She was however, enraptured by her new pajamas. She easily fell into a peaceful sleep.
——-
Nya woke up bright and early, eager to start the day. She put on the blue kimono dress and put her hair in a ponytail.
The carriage was waiting outside and so was Jay. He couldn't take his eyes off of her. He had never met anyone with such a pretty smile.
Nelson helped Nya on to the carriage.
...
The two sat beside one another as Jay led the carriage. Nya pressed her body half way out of the carriage to see the ocean. She hadn't really taken in it's beauty from the outside. The waves were so calm. The ocean, she noticed, was the same color of Jays eyes. Is that why she felt so at home with him?
She turned her attention to the horse leading them. Jay offered her the reigns. Nyas lips grew into a devilish grin. Jay laughed.
Nya raised the reigns which propelled them. Jay let out a childish yelp. Nya continued lifting the reigns as the horse gained speed.
Jays knuckles went white. After a few minutes Nya really got the hang of it.
Driving was calming. Jay couldn't take his eyes off of her. Her smile was so beautiful he felt all his problems melt away.
Jay however thought to himself: wait for the girl who rescued him. Did he still need her?
Nya pulled the reigns and the wagon came to a holt.
A herd of sheep was blocking the road. "Hold on," Jay chuckled as he exited the cart. He started helping the herder by moving the sheep out of the path.
"So fluffy," Jay said rubbing the belly of a lamb. "Thank you your highness," the herder said. Jay looked for Nya but she wasn't there. He got worried and headed into the sea side village.
He turned a corner to the town square where a farmers market was being held.
He could see Nya exploring the produce and handmade goods. Jay walked up to her and she smiled.
Nya turned her attention to a performer. A man was juggling apples. Nya found the amusing. The man offered her to try. She watched him again and attempted to do so herself. She got the hang of it quickly.
People clapped as she added to more apples. Jay was incredibly impressed. Nya offered for him to try but he declined right away. He didn't feel like making a fool of himself around a group of people especially this mystery girl.
Nya gave the fruit back to the performer.
She heard music being played from strange instruments. She pulled Jay by the arm. She motioned for him to join. But Jay was more or less against it. Nya frowned. "I can't dance," Jay confessed.
In actuality he was a very good dancer. He just never danced. Nya put her hands on her hips in protest.
Jay caved and let Nya take him by the hand. Jay took Nyas right hand in his and his other around her waist. The melody was sweet and they swayed to the music. Nya accidentally stepped on his foot one or more times. Jay winced but he didn't mind.
Nya should have expected dancing to be hard especially a mermaid with legs. To Nyas relief Jay took the lead.
A new song began to play more upbeat and the townspeople all joined in. People locked arms and began swirling around and switching partners.
This dance was thrilling. Nya felt as light as a feather on her feet and got lost in the rhythm. The dance ended with Nya back in Jays arms. Jay dipped Nya and looked into her eyes. He was so lost he forgot to lift her back up.
"Oh, heh, sorry," Jay blushed. "Follow me I want to show you some more of the town," Jay said. It was his turn to pull Nya around.
——-
Kai paced around the throne room. His eyes were bloodshot. Skylar swam up to him and rested her hand on his shoulder reassuringly.
"You need rest," Skylar advised. "How can I sleep with Nya missing?" Kai shouted. Skylar sighed.
"I'm sure she's fine. Nyas strong and capable." Kai groaned. "She could be dead Skylar! And it would be all my fault," Kai cried.
"What do you mean?" Skylar asked. "I destroyed everything she owned and forbade her from ever leaving the palace again until I said other wise," Kai confessed.
Skylar didn't know what to say. "She's probably blowing off steam," Skylar offered. Kai sighed. "It's been almost two days. No sign of Lloyd and no sign of Zane either," Kai remarked.
Skylar had to admit it didn't look too good.
"Well pacing on the ocean floor won't help your sister Kai. You need rest. So do the guards looking for her," Skylar said.
Kai's face turned cold. "No! Nobody in this kingdom sleeps until she brought back here safely. Anyone who disregards my authority will be punished," Kai said with venom in his voice.
Skylar shook her head. What could she do? What could anyone do? All they could do is hope that she is alright.
———
"Okay here we are," Jay smiled proudly at a little wooden canoe. He motioned for Nya to step in. He offered to help her in but she insisted on helping herself and helping him instead.
Nya tried reaching for the paddles but Jay got to them first. "I insist, really," Jay said firmly. Nya allowed it.
Jay pushed them off. They started to float along the lagoon. Moonlight was reflected off the water. Swans glided gracefully through the water. It was a very romantic setting. Zane and Lloyd smiled at the prospect of Nya accomplishing her mission on day two.
Paddling around got a bit tiring so Jay anchored the boat. They faced each other. Jay was once again lost in her beauty.
"I really wish I knew your name," Jay sighed. Nya nodded.
Jay tried adjusting the seat to be more comfortable but fell. "My knee, ahh," Jay winced. Nyas eyes lit up. Nya started nodding catching Jays attention.
Jay wasn't catching on. She tapped on his knee. He cocked his brow. She taped his knee again and pointed to her self. "Your knee?" Jay asked confused. Nya nodded holding on finger.
"Oh charades cool," Jay smiled.
Nya nodded. She held her finger up and pointed to her knee. "First word," Jay said. Nya held up a two.
She mimicked screaming. "Yelling?" Nya shook her head. She repeated the movement again this time motioning to her mouth. "Shouting?" This made no sense but with Jay things seldom ever did.
Nya sighed until she got an idea. Nya stepped on Jays foot. "Ahhh," Jay said startled. Nya smiled brightly nodded happily.
She motioned a two. "Knee ahh?" Jay asked.
Nya nodded and pointed to herself. "Is that your name?" Jay asked. Nya smiled. "I'm guessing those combined are your name, Nya?" He asked.
Nya nodded. Her heart fluttered hearing her name come out of his mouth.
"That's a beautiful name." Jay took Nyas hands in his own.
Zane and Lloyd held their breathes in anticipation. Dareth swooped down on the back of the boat startling the prince. Nya gave a death glare to the bird.
"Wild life is active huh?" Jay chucked. Nya let a bead of sweat drip down her forehead.
Dareth joined Zane and Lloyd in hiding
"Look at the two love birds! Get it?" Dareth grinned. The two ignored him. "What's taking so long why can't they just kiss already?" Lloyd whined.
"It's not that simple Lloyd. This setting isn't enough. We need ambiance," Zane said.
——
"Nooo!" Kalamar roared. "How can she be succeeding? She doesn't even have a voice," Kalamars voice boomed.
"By this rate they'll be married by sunset," outraged Kalamar sent two allusions depicted electric eels towards the lovers.
"I have no choice but to go up there myself." "But having legs won't make you beautiful," Gripe said. "Idiot! Why must I explain what I do?" Kalamar swam to a cabinet in his chamber. "I will create a spell that will turn me into a princess, temporarily. By the time the spell has worn off it will be too late," Kalamar cackled. "Times up Princess," he smirked.
—-
Zane had perfectly arranged the setting and mood. Jay was right about to kiss Nya when their boat was suddenly flipped over by two eels.
Zane and Lloyd looked at each other suspiciously seeing as eels don't live out around here. They knew Kalamar was behind this.
Jay laughed as the two helped each other out of the lagoon. "Sorry," Jay apologized. Nya smiled.
"It's getting late we should head back," Jay blushed. Nya nodded. Both of them were disappointed. The two rode in silence back to the palace. The thought of each other and the opportunity they missed.
——
The pair arrived back at the palace. Nelson helped them secretly enter. They both giggled as they snuck past guards. Jay accidentally tripped and Nya caught him. "Heh, thanks Nya," Jay smiled.
"Jay?" Edna called. "Mom," Jay smiled. He took Nya by her hand. "Mom this is Nya," Jay said happily.
"It's lovely to meet you deary," Edna smiled sweetly. "Are you joining us for dinner?" Edna asked. Jay nodded.
"Jay, I must ask. Why are you wet? Both of you?" Edna asked.
Busted Jay thought. "Oh my queen it was raining and Jay showed Nya the kingdom from the balcony," Cyrus lied.
'Thank you' Jay voiced. "Okay," Edna said uncertain, "we'll get changed."
...
Nya changed into a beautiful blue gown. It had sea shell deigns and flowed elegantly from the waist. They put her hair half up half down.
Jay didn't usually care about his appearance but today he wanted to impress Nya. He unknowingly dressed in a matching blue royal suit.
"Oh that's a lovely suit Honey," Edna gushed."Mooooom," Jay blushed.
Nya arrived to the dining room. The table was decorated beautifully.
Nelson helped Nya into her seat. Jay sat directly across from Nya. "Jay? Jay, Jay, Jay!" Edna tried grabbing his attention.
"Oh heh sorry," Jay apologized. Nya blushed as she knew Jay was looking at her.
"So Nya I heard you were in a shipwreck as-well," Edna spoke. Nya nodded.
"Have you always been mute or could you speak before the accident. If you don't mind me asking,"
Nya shrugged giving approval of the question. "Okay nod once if you could speak nod twice if you've never been able to," Edna instructed.
Nya nodded once.
This struck Jay. "Excuse me I need some air," Jay said leaving. Nya looked at him concerned. "Oh don't worry he's probably just still thinking about his own experience, he'll be back. Let's eat!" The queen smiled.
...
Jay walked onto the shore. "What am I thinking?" Jay groaned. "It couldn't be her. Could it? But why does that matter?" Jay paced.
Jay sat on the rock losing track of time. Dinner was surely over. He looked back to the palace where he could see Nya brushing her hair... with a fork?
"What am I doing?" Jay asked himself. He got up and started his way back to the palace. Regardless of Nya being his savior or not he loved her.
He ran up the winding steps to palace. His heart raced. But suddenly he stopped in his tracks. He heard a voice. It was familiar. He felt like he was in a trance. He couldn't help but walk to the voice which emanated from the coast.
In the distance he could see a woman walking down the shore. She had long black hair that stuck out of a silk cloak.
"Who are you?" Jay asked unaware his eyes had turned an illuminant purple...
——-
"Wake up. Wake up!" Dareth shouted. Nya pulled the pillow over her head blocking out the birds cry's.
"What is it?" Zane asked. Dareth landed on top of Zane which he proceeded to pinch him. Dareth squealed.
"This is serious Dareth!" Zane reminded him. "The kingdom is in celebration. The prince is to be married to this mystery girl," Dareth explained. Nya shot up as he heart raced.
"Nya you did it!" Zane said with relief. "When did they say the wedding would be?" Zane asked.
"By sunset," Dareth said. Zane sighed.
"That's cutting it close but the spell fades after sunset." Zane reassured himself.
"Nya you should get ready we're running on a tight schedule," Zane advised. Nya nodded and smiled as she got out of bed.
She picked up a brush which she learned was actually meant for hair.
"Don't you think it's weird the coming about this?" Zane pondered. He looked to Nya but she was clearly lost in her head as she got ready.