Fantasy Tales Series: Rise of The Merfolk

Chapter Thirty-Six

An agreement has been reached. Merlin began, his arms outstretched and commanding attention. I listened intently. We have decided to merge our kingdoms, and begin a new chapter in Merfolk history!

I was going to wake up with a huge headache from the amount of cheering that erupted. Everyone was excited for the future. No more sneaking around one another, hiding and hostility. It would end.

This will take time, Merlin continued. First, we must build a new cave system big enough for us all but it will happen! Secondly, we must thank the two brave Merfolk who dared to defy us and speak truth! Everyone turned to face Noah and I. I was suddenly very uncomfortable with the attention I was receiving. Noah, I have known you as a loyal person, but an individualistic one. Today those qualities have served you well!

Everyone clapped for Noah and his cheeks turned slightly red.

Aquamarine, our new comer, perhaps the very reason for our new start, Esme spoke. I gaped at them. How did they know me? I guessed since I had argued with the war council and brought them the very news of Mermen living under the ocean in the first place, they would have to know the argumentative and stubborn new Mermaid. We owe you a debt of gratitude. Cora has informed me of your tireless worry and determination to help your species.

At the mention of Cora's name, I looked around and found her face in the crowd. She gave me a wink. This was her way of saying, as soon as she got used to the new ways and forgave me for lying to her and going behind her back, we would remain friends. I waved to her and watched as her smile grew. I hadn't lost her as a friend after all, it would take time, but she would be there for me.

It would be my honour to make you a part of our war council, as our peacemaker. We have been missing someone in this role for quite some time. If you would come up here, I will give you the peacemakers jewel. She beamed at me, a proud sparkled in her eyes and I robotically swam up to her. It was strange, but I wanted to accept this. I know I hardly know you Aquamarine, but I can not wait to get to know you. You have a rare quality about you.

I bowed my head respectfully. I cannot express my gratitude enough, thank you Esme. I was numb, but the reality of this was starting to kick in. I was being accepted into the Merfolk community and awarded a position on the war council. I felt weirdly complete, like this was right for me. I didn't know how but I knew it was my path to take, after witnessing the shambles the war council was in, I was looking forward to being the voice of peace. I had been doing it all along anyway.

She gave me a small white gem on a necklace. Placing it on my neck I marvelled at how it glittered and shone with grace. The mark of a peace maker- I was in love with this jewel already.

Do not thank me, you deserve it. You have served us well. We have acted, she bit her lip, In haste and anger. No longer.

I also have to announce, Esme continued. I swum back to my place in the crowd next to Noah. He was smiling widely at me. My exit as your leader Mermaids.

Gasps echoed inside my mind as she surprised everyone with her statement. To make amends, I have chosen to do what I should have done in the first place and step down. I will spend my days doing good for our community and making up for my sins.

I mean, she did murder someone, I thought to myself, careful not to broadcast that to everyone here.

In my place, is someone I think we all know deserves it more than I have ever. She smiled at us all. Capri, if you would please.

Capri? Well she did say she was one of the oldest Mermaids, I didn't know her very well but from my limited knowledge I already knew she was a wise person. I looked forward to being guided by her leadership and getting to know her better.