A Big Mermaid #Wattys2014

Chapter 8 The mermaid & the human

"Oh my, oh my, this is coming along much too easily." A sinister voice chuckled. "Seems like the king's youngest daughter is nothing but a pretty face and a sweet voice."

From within the engulfing darkness, a distorted figure emerged. A pair of hypnotising, horrific eyes spied on Ariel through a- A crystal ball? No, much too predictable. Thing is, the sea witch didn't have any eyes of her own, her vision depended on her pet eel. What he saw through his eyes was all she saw.

The princess slept sweetly, soundly, not realising that there in the shadows right beside her, there was always, and always has been someone watching./

Morning in the ocean was always a majestic sight. The blue's of the ocean lightened and contrasted in a range of bright colours. Sea animals of all shapes and sizes, colours and races came out like lights decorating their home. Coral's lit up, enhancing the scene.

Do you know what was best about the mornings? The royal castle. It stood bold and proud, the centre of the hustle and bustle of underwater life.

Ariel awoke to a sound of trumpets blaring in the distance. Drowsily, she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes.

"Princess Ariel, it's time to get up," warm hands shook her gently. Ariel attempted to swat the royal maid away but eventually gave up.

"Hurry!" the maid ushered urgently, tugging a brush through her mane of glimmering hair. "The daily royal mantra is about to start."

Rolling her eyes, Ariel stifled another yawn. "I really don't see the point of doing it daily, I mean come on!"

She was prompted out of her room and towards the royal balcony overlooking Atlantica. That was the only highlight of the royal ceremony, the picturesque view.

All her sisters were to line up beside her father, representing the royal family. Ariel half-heartedly swam towards the balcony, that is until she saw her own look-a-like take her place.

Her eyes widened and she gasped, that had never happened before! Her dad went through the usual announcement and the usual applause arrived afterwards. seething, she waited till it was over before confronting him.

Soon, it was over, meaning Ariel could demand an explanation from her father. "Daddy, what was she doing in my place?" Ariel bellowed.

The king gave a mere shrug of his shoulders. "You were late as usual, so instead of postponing the ceremony she offered to take your place. I must say, she has far better posture than you."

Hurt and angry, Ariel furiously swam away from her father- Only to collide into Flounder.

"Ariel!" He cheered, a grin forming on his face at the sight of his best freind.

"Not now Flounder," Ariel gulped, pushing him aside. Not even the sight of her cheerful best friend could cheer her up.

"Ariel...?" he whispered, question tinged in his response. "I-I just wanted to give you your birthday present early-"

At the mention of the word 'birthday' her entire mind became alert and prickles formed on her skin.

"Wh-what did you say!?" Her voice shook as she stared at her friend.

Oblivious, Flounder gave out a chuckle. "I knew the word birthday present would get your attention! Oh, wait... it's two words,"

Birthday... 16th birthday... Faith was well and truly kicking in! In fact, it had kicked in early! Marcel... Flashbacks of the night before rushed through her mind, clogging up any other thought. Just the mere image of it sent shivers down her mind, she wanted that feeling again. It was so addicting... No one would stop her if she went at night, right?