We Breathe Water, You Breathe Lies

Page 16

           As they glided through the crystalline waters, Elara felt the weight of the guardians' harsh words begin to lift. Sunlight filtered through the surface, creating shimmering patterns that danced on the sandy floor below. Vibrant corals swayed gently in the current, a stark contrast to the ruin they had just witnessed.

"Where are we going?" Elara asked, her curiosity piqued as they swam deeper into the heart of the ocean.

"To my pod," the other mermaid replied, her voice steady despite the chaos that had just unfolded. "There's someone there who might be able to help us—a seer. She's wise and powerful; if anyone can guide us, it's her."

As they swam through the tranquil waters, Elara couldn't shake the feeling of relief that washed over her. The chaos and anger that had consumed her since the encounter with the pirates began to ebb, replaced by a sense of purpose. She followed Rina through a series of shimmering reefs, the sunlight filtering through the waves, casting dancing patterns on the sandy floor.

"We're almost there," Rina said, her voice brightening with excitement. "My family will know what to do. They've faced challenges before, and they're wise."

Elara's heart quickened at the thought of meeting Rina's family. Would they be as kind as Rina claimed? Would they accept her after everything that had happened? She didn't have much experience with other mermaids, especially not ones outside her pod. As they approached a vibrant coral formation, Elara caught a glimpse of a welcoming scene ahead—a gathering of mermaids with laughter echoing through the water.

Rina's family was a sight to behold, their scales shimmering in hues of blue and green, blending beautifully with the ocean around them. They looked up as Rina approached, and their faces lit with joy.

"Elara! Come meet my family!" Rina gestured, pulling her along.

"Rina, is that you?" a gentle voice called. An older mermaid, regal and nurturing, swam forward, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "And who is this lovely creature with you?"

"This is Elara," Rina said, her pride evident. "She's the most beautiful mermaid I've ever seen!"

Elara felt a flush of warmth at the compliment, and as Rina's family surrounded her, their kind words poured over her like the gentle caress of the sea. "Never have we seen such beauty," one of Rina's younger siblings exclaimed. "Are you a goddess of the ocean?"

Elara chuckled, a bit taken aback but grateful for the attention. As the compliments continued, she noticed a flicker of jealousy in Rina's eyes, her smile faltering for just a moment.

Before she could dwell on it, Rina introduced her best friend, Dlir. As he swam into view, Elara's breath caught in her throat. He was stunning—his features sharp, yet soft, with eyes that sparkled like the ocean under moonlight. His presence radiated confidence, and he wore a playful grin as he approached.

"Rina, who's this?" Dlir asked, his gaze shifting to Elara. "You've brought a treasure from the depths, I see."

"Elara, this is Dlir," Rina said, a hint of possessiveness creeping into her voice. "He's my best friend."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Elara," Dlir said, his voice smooth as he extended a hand. "I've heard a lot about you."

Elara's heart raced, the chemistry between them palpable. But she sensed the tension brewing beneath Rina's smile. After exchanging pleasantries, Rina suggested they swim off to discuss the recent chaos.

"Let's find somewhere private," Rina said, glancing at her family with a mix of affection and apprehension.

As they swam away, Elara couldn't help but feel a strange dynamic forming between them. Rina's jealousy was evident, and while Elara appreciated the warmth of Rina's family, she couldn't shake the feeling that this new friendship was already tested by the undercurrents of competition.

"So, what happened out there?" Dlir asked, his tone shifting to concern as they swam deeper into the shimmering water.

Elara took a breath, ready to share her story, not realizing that this bond would shape her journey in ways she never imagined.