Welcome readers to Chapter 12! I haven't been putting author's notes much in this story so those that I do post will usually say something important. This one, for example, will explain that classes start back up tomorrow and I won't have as much free-time to write. I apologize in advance for any delays, but these chapters have been going quick enough that it may just drop down to one chapter every few days, but remain at two chapters a week. Hopefully, of course.
Either way, I will continue to update as quickly as I am able! Thank you guys so much for stopping by and I hope you are liking this so far because things are about to get interesting.
Read. Review. Enjoy!
The Middle
The day had passed slowly, though no one understood how they had so suddenly run short on time. The odd group met early at the sea's edge to discuss options, but noon had come before they had found anything. It was in a burst of realization that Aaron discovered a full-proof event that couldn't leave anyone wondering. It too more time than was anything less than nerve-wracking for him to explain it, though multiple eyes lit up with the idea. They could do this!
Using dangers that would more than likely get anyone aside from the princess herself thrown in the dungeon, the two teens could gather countless villagers and peasants with the promise of riches if they would only force the crabby advisors on-board a vessel that would take them out to sea with no escape. When that was accomplished, they could recruit Sebastian to gather as many merfolk as he could to follow him out to 'find the prince'. By leading them into a dizzying spiral, they would lose their direction; unknowingly being shown the way to the surface where the humans waited.
The plan was crazy, but it was all they had.
They began as soon as they could, though the sun had already begun to fall. Everything worked out as anticipated. Admittedly, there was hysteria among the old crones who were tossing their lunches over every side of the boat and clinging to the pillars for dear life. On shore, the townspeople raged of their promised treasures that were kept from them, but soon they faded into the distance. It was more difficult than expected to convince, lead, and trick merfolk to the surface, but only hours before any colors blended with the blue of the sky, heads began to burst from the water.
Wide, unblinking eyes met from both groups present; no one knew what to say. Emily stood quickly, knowing that waiting could bring a possibility of panic on either side. Her voice was loud and demanding attention of all who listened though she spoke calmly as a leader should. With practiced ease, she introduced the possibility of unity between them; the pros as well as the cons. All present had their eyes glued to the girl whether she was their leader or not. Her speech had obviously gained the agreement of the humans, but the merfolk were restless with questions of weary intentions along with honesty.
Sensing the growing unease, Aaron took this moment to take a stand beside his friend on a high ledge of the deck where he could be seen by his people. A hush fell over them as Emily briefly explained that, in exchange for his voice, he found a way to walk three days as a human in order to ensure their trust and ensure his in return. Merfolk began to nod in understanding. This could be the beginning to an amazing co-existence, but why hasn't the king mentioned any of this. Considering this type of friendship would be treasonous wouldn't it be wise for the king to be here?
The main debates lasted longer than anticipated, but by the end of their discussion all of those in attendance agreed and had started negotiations of trade. Many humans spoke to merfolk and vise-versa until the beginnings of friendships could be traced. It was a bright a joyous moment for the two heirs who ventured apart to meet with their people, though Aaron used Sebastian's voice through it all.