Here we go with the seventh chapter, and I want to thank everyone for the support. My friend appreciates the support for his old story and is glad it's getting better than the last two times he tried this. It's a slow progress, but I told him more people will like it. In time.
Sorry for being a little late for this one, been getting my stuff together before I move out and in with my fiancée. With our wedding coming up, it will make things a little tricky with my stories. But hoping to still get them out.
Now then, last time we saw Melody spending time with her family and letting them know about Gabriella. While Gabriella finds out the truth about Melody and decides to go through with her plan. How will things go for them when their secret eventually comes out? And will it be before or after whoever is coming to crash the party shows up?
Tune in today to find out everyone. Now, time for the disclaimer. I don't own anything owned by Disney except the OCs of my friend. Also, again I'm doing this for my friend who can no longer work on my projects.
Enjoy the chapter everyone.
Chapter VII
Tirulia
The day has arrived. It is Melody's birthday, and she knew it was going to be a very long day. Possibly one that will be fun, exciting, and full of surprises. Or it will end with her embarrassed, humiliated, and made fun of. Sure, that hasn't happened since her 12th birthday years ago, but it doesn't mean she doesn't get fun of behind her back by some of the noble kids.
Still, she knew she has to get through this day until her grandfather and the rest of her family arrives. Once he gets here, then the real celebration will begin. One where she'll be able to turn into a mermaid at will and have fun swimming in the ocean. And surrounded by the people that love her.
Melody though needed to take care of one last thing and that's meet with her new friend, Gabriella.
She had told her mother about her last night and how she planned to invite her to the party. While even telling her the truth about her being the princess of the land. Melody is nervous though. This is her first friend on land who didn't know about her secret and who isn't from a rich family.
"I just hope she won't get mad when I tell her the truth," said Melody to herself as she paced around in the clothing Carlotta got from her. To allow her to look normal and wear something casual. "Maybe I should just tell her I'm a princess or maybe work my way up to it?"
"Melody child, you need to relax," said Sebastian as he appeared from behind the rock, Melody asked him to stay hidden behind. "You'll be fine. You just need to be honest with her, tell her the truth, and everything will be all right."
Ariel had asked Sebastian to tag along with Melody to make sure she'll be okay. She could tell her daughter was nervous and might need someone to help her. She'd offer to go, but Melody wanted to try doing this on her own. But did accept having Sebastian around.
If she did run into some trouble explaining the truth, Sebastian would be there to help give her words of encouragement.
"You really think so?" Melody asked as she kneels down in front of Sebastian. "I mean, did my mom have to do the same?"
"Oh of course," said Sebastian who knew Ariel had to do the same with Eric's family and friends. "And when she told the truth, they all accepted it," he did lie about that part though.
Not all of Eric's family and friends accepted it, but they knew it wasn't up to them who he married. He loves Ariel and has no regrets with it.
"If you want to tell her the truth right away, then go for it. The sooner you tell her, the sooner you two will become close friends," said Sebastian who knew better than to keep things a secret for too long. "And then, when you're ready to tell her about being half-mermaid, then you can tell her."
"Well, I plan to do that one-step at a time," said Melody who knew she needed to take baby-steps for this. "And thank you, Sebastian. I really appreciate all your help."
Sebastian gave a small smile and laugh, before he gives her a small nod. "As long as you're happy, my child, then I'll be happy," he then saw someone approaching them and begins to hide. "Good luck," he whispered before hiding in his shell.
Melody turns around and sees its Gabriella. She stood up, took a deep breath, and mentally wished herself luck.
*A few minutes earlier*
Gabriella had arrived a mile away from where she met Melody yesterday to do a little digging. She had finished making the drugs needed to spike the drinks of the guards and kept it in a bag hidden in her coat. While putting away her weapons in her bag. She knew she couldn't risk going into the castle without her weapons being discovered.
She also had to hide away anything that might give away her appearing as a pirate. The last thing she wants is for these rich noble jerks ruining her plan. She also didn't want Melody to find out. She may be lying to her and using her, but she doesn't want to hurt her.
So, once she stays for a while at the party and the drug kicks in, she'll sneak out. She'll bid farewell to Melody and leave this place.
Once she finished digging the hole, she places her bag inside before covering it up with the dirt. Making sure to leave a marker so she'll know where it is. While making sure no one finds this place. And notice the dirt being loose around here, like someone was digging.
"Can't risk losing my stuff," said Gabriella to herself before hearing the ringing near her. "Finished scouting around the docks?"
She turns to see her fairy friend, who took a seat on a nearby rock and took a sip of water from her small canteen. "I counted at least twenty guards. I was able to get the full count when the seagulls saw me. I guess they thought I'd be an easy meal. So, I flew them around the guards, counted them all, and seeing their defenses."
Lara explains she spotted at least one cannon. An 18-pounder, which is near the entrance of the docks. Likely to be used in case an enemy ship came in or if someone tries to steal their ship. Fortunately, while the guards were busy with the seagulls, she managed to disable the weapon.
Gabriella couldn't help but smile at her mischievous and ingenious little friend. "Nicely done, Lara. Now that their cannon has been disabled, we just need to drug their drinks and then sneak onboard the ships."
Gabriella took out a piece of paper and unrolls it to show a map of the castle. "Now then, one more time. Is this an accurate description of the castle's interiors?"
Lara looks over the map, which she had described to her friend after making her way around every inch of the castle. Making sure not to leave a single detail out.
"Lucky for you, I'm very good at remembering every single little detail of anything I see," said Lara as she gave her friend the answer she asked. "Every hallway, every room, everything."
Gabriella is happy to hear that as she looks over the map. "I'm lucky that you have such a great gift, Lara.
Lara nods in response, but later lowers her head a little while rubbing her left arm with her right hand. "I thought so too, but not everyone else did, especially when I tried making something that would help them.'
Gabriella turns to her friend and knows what she's talking about. She puts the map away and moves her right index finger over to comfort her friend. "Sorry. I shouldn't have brought that up if it meant bringing back some bad memories."
Lara shook her head and wipes away a small tear before she tried to regain herself. "I-It's okay. I know you didn't intentionally do it to make me feel sad. Besides…" she fixes her hat before looking up at her friend. "That's all in the past. I'm here with you and I'm not going anywhere."
Gabriella appreciates it and knows her friend means it. "Thanks, Lara," once she finished burying her bag, she begins wiping away some of the dirt, so it doesn't look someone dug around. "I'll make sure to leave a marker near a tree, so I know where it's at."
She even leaves some leaves around to avoid it being noticed. She goes to a nearby tree and cuts into it leave her mark.
"All right. Time to go pay the princess a visit," said Gabriella as she heads down to the beach. "Anything else you found out about our princess and her family?"
Lara lands on Gabriella's hat and begins telling her what she found out. "Well, I may need to apologize a little bit about how I viewed her. It seems the reason she didn't want to tell you is because she's scared you might think of her as a freak. You know. Due to being able to talk to fishes."
Lara explains how the princess has a reputation among the noble people. How she talks to fish, how they view her as a freak, and treat her as an outcast. But only pretend to act nice in order to gain favors from her parents. Something Gabriella isn't surprised by.
"I guess that's why she didn't want to tell me she's the princess. If she thought I heard talks about the princess and talking to sea creatures, she'd be worried of how I'd view her," still Gabriella isn't surprised she talks to fish, considering who her family are. "Still, this just means I can't hurt her feelings by simply leaving. Even if she is royalty."
Gabriella knows she'll need to make some excuse so that Melody won't find out the truth about her and be reassured she doesn't get hurt that someone she met is gone.
"I'll need to make up some excuse that I received a letter that I have to get going or that my family want me back," said Gabriella who knew she'll need to figure out a good lie for this. "If grandpa was here, this would work out perfectly."
"We'll figure it out," said Lara who knew they still have time. "For now? Go meet up with her and get in the castle. I'll meet you inside and wait."
Gabriella knew that would be wise. If she kept her around, it will only be a matter of time before Melody sees her. "Just remember to stay out of sight and be careful."
And with that, Lara flew off her friend's hat, towards the castle. All while Gabriella heads down to the beach. As she walks over to where Melody is supposed to meet her, she knew she needed to get her to reveal who she is to her, so she can reassure her its all okay, and then get in the castle. While making sure her secret is kept a secret and she'll be able to find the right ship to…commandeer.
Once Gabriella saw the princess waiting for her, wearing what appeared to be plain normal clothing. Not a regal dress, a fancy one, or like her swimwear from yesterday. Seems like she's trying to look normal for her. In any case, she did have to admit, she did look cute in this dress.
"Good morning, Melody. I trust you slept well?" Gabriella greeted.
"G-Good mor-ning to you too, Gabby," Melody replied while clearly sounding nervous.
Something Gabriella picked up on and mentally loves how cute she sounds while nervous. "Are you okay?" she asked trying not to let her know she's nervous. "Something on your mind?"
"I-I'm fine. Sorry, I was waiting for you and was worried you wouldn't show up," said Melody who was worried she found out her secret and wasn't going to show. "I'm glad you're here though."
"So am I," said Gabriella as the two begin walking along the beach. "I take it your folks were fine with you coming out here to meet with a stranger you barely met?"
Melody knew her parents were a little nervous, but they have complete trust in her and know she'll be okay. "They were at first, but they trust in my judgment. They know I wouldn't be going to meet someone I met if I didn't trust them."
Gabriella almost felt a little guilty now with what she said. She knew if she found out who she was, she wouldn't be saying that.
Gabriella cleared her throat and tries not to dwell on this for too long. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. Not a lot of parents would let their kids go out all on their own, especially those from a noble, royal, or even rich business family."
Melody remembers the lie she gave yesterday, how her family are from a rich business family. So, she wouldn't tell Gabby the truth.
"Y-Yeah. I understand, but my parents do trust me," said Melody who remembers what her mother told her, and she knew she needed to tell her the truth soon. Just not yet. "Gabby, you said you've been traveling around on your own, right? Don't you miss seeing your family?"
Gabriella sighed as she looks up at the sky. "I see my grandpa from my dad's side from time to time. He's really the only one in the family I like to see. My mom and her dad…not so much. As for my dad, I never really met him. My mom said he never even knew she was pregnant with me, but never tried to find him to let him know."
Melody seemed a bit surprised to hear this. Most of the kids she met would always have positive things to say about their parents and grandparents. It seems though that Gabriella isn't like the other kids. Is that why she travels around a lot?
"My goal is to try finding him though so I can finally meet him. Of course, I don't plan to try getting to know him though," said Gabriella who's read and heard enough stories about her father to know he won't be like how a father should be like. "I only wish to meet him and let him know I'm his daughter. If he chooses to want me in his life, fine, but if not, then that's fine too."
Melody is taken aback by what her new friend wants to do when she finds her father. How she doesn't seem to want to find him to be with him, but rather just to meet him.
"And you'll be fine with that? I mean, its your father and I would have thought you'd want to do more than just meet him," said Melody who would have figured she'd be a lot like her.
Wanting to see the rest of her family after not seeing them for 12 years. When she finally did after Morgana was defeated, she wanted to get to know them, spend time with them, and have fun.
"I'm sure, don't worry about it," said Gabriella as she turns towards Melody. "So, I didn't get to ask you much about yourself yesterday and you didn't get to do the same with me. Would you be okay if we ask each other questions to get to know each other better?"
Melody nods in excitement knowing this will be a good chance for her to find out more about her new friend. "You can start if you want. Ask away."
"Okay," Gabriella knew she'll need to start off small, before she can see if she can get her to tell her the truth. "Have you been living here throughout your whole life? Or were you raised elsewhere?"
"Nope. I've been living here since I was born," Melody replied. "I know my dad's family do live far from here, but my dad made this place his home for years. My mom…" Melody needed to choose her words carefully. "She came from another kingdom and ended up meeting my dad during a storm."
"Oh wow. A storm? Really?" Gabriella knew this must have happened when Melody's mother was a mermaid. "And did they get married right away?" she asked figuring that's how these stories usually go.
"Not at first," Melody would go on to explain in her version how after saving Melody's father, her mother left, but would later meet him again, they would go out for a few days, and knew they were meant to be together. "They ended up getting married and would later have me. I've been living here my whole life and I'm happy for it."
Gabriella looks around the place and had to admit, this did look like a nice place to live. "It is peaceful and looks nicer than some of the places I've been to."
"Speaking of which. If you don't mind me asking you two questions. Where were you born and how far have you traveled?" Melody asked hoping she'll answer her questions, while promising to answer two questions too when it's her turn.
"I was born in the Caribbeans but had traveled around the sea with my mother and her father," said Gabriella as she answers the first of the two questions. "We never stayed in one place at once. Always traveling around from the Atlantic, to the Pacific, and even Indian Ocean."
Melody had seen the maps that her tutor had given her and recognized those names. While shocked that her friend, who was so young had traveled all over these places.
"But once I was old enough, I left my family and went out on my own. Traveling mostly across the Caribbean and coasts of Europe," Gabriella answered the second of the two questions, while making sure not to reveal too much. "Out of all the places I've been to though, I've never come across anyplace like this before."
Melody was almost in awe that her new friend has traveled so far, while also a little jealous that she gets to do whatever she wants. "That's amazing. You're really living such an amazing life," she replied while sighing a little. "Makes me almost want to be like you and go out to travel the world too."
Gabriella was a little surprised to hear how she a princess wants to go out to the world. Traveling around and seeing the things she sees is not what she expected a princess to want to do.
"I'm surprise that a daughter of a businessman would want to go out into the world and explore. I always figured you'd be interested in staying in one place, hope to find a man in your life, and marry," said Gabriella as she figured that's what any princess would want to do with their life.
Melody knew now was the right time to tell her the truth. She didn't want to keep lying about this and knew she needed to be upfront about it like her mom said.
"The truth is…I'm actually the princess," Melody confessed to her friend. "I'm sorry for lying to you about it. I wanted to tell you at first, but I was worried. I don't have a lot of friends around here and most of the kids from high societies are always jerks."
Gabriella knew why she didn't want to tell her the truth but needed to pause for a moment to make it seem like she was shocked by the revelation. "Melody, it's okay. I understand. I am surprised with you being the princess, but I know you had your reason for keeping it a secret. I'm just glad you told me the truth though."
Melody mentally sighed in relief that her friend took the news well and wasn't mad. She took it much better than she thought she would, which is a load off her mind.
"Thank you, Gabby. I'm just glad I was able to tell you the truth," said Melody who knew this is one secret she didn't need to worry about telling her. "Still, I'm glad you're taking this well. And I was wondering if you don't mind…would you like to come join my party? I know this is a late notice since it's tonight, but I would appreciate it if you were there with me."
Gabriella had to pretend to think about it for a moment, since of course she'll be going. "I would love to, thank you Melody. Although now that I know it's your birthday today, I need to find you a nice gift."
"Honestly? Just having a friend at this party who I can trust and be myself around is enough for me," said Melody who didn't need a gift from Gabriella, since she already got it.
Gabriella now felt a little guilty when she mentioned being around someone she can trust. "Well, um speaking of which, would you like to continue asking each other questions?"
"I'd like that," said Melody who didn't mind them finding out more about one another, while they head to the palace.
Meanwhile
Ariel is seen walking down the hallway as she makes her way to the entrance. All the while using a napkin to clean around her lips. She had woken up early in the morning feeling rather sick. She doubts it was something she ate, because she knew Attina, Eric, and Melody had the same food she did. She's hoping its not a stomach flu.
The last thing she wants is to get sick and stay in bed on her daughter's birthday. She's just thankful she was able to eat her breakfast without throwing up. Although she did hate how she had to throw it back out minutes ago. At least, Eric wasn't around.
The last thing she wants is to worry him, especially with how much work he's making everything goes well tonight.
Once she finished, she threw the napkin away and heads down the stairs. She saw much of the guests are going around and helping prepare everything. From setting up the final bit of decorations, the banner is set up, the food is prepared, making sure the tables and chairs are set up, and the musicians rehearsing. Yep, just another normal moment around the castle.
Anytime they have some sort of celebration or big event, the staff are always running around. Making sure everything is ready. Despite Ariel believing that as long as it looks nice, it will be fine. But she knew if she left it like that, the guests would make a big deal out of it. And as the host, she must try appeasing them, even if she hates it.
Thankfully though, they just need to get through this part of the party and save the best part for last.
She heads on out of the castle and got excited when she saw who arrived. What came next is a loud squealing response as Ariel was approached by her six older sisters, Attina, Alana, Aquata, Arista, Adella, and Andrina. All six wearing colored dresses as they all rushed over to their little sister. All embracing in a big hug as they all cheered happily that they get to see each other again.
"I'm so glad to see you all made it," said Ariel who's happy that her sisters are here early.
"Of course. Attina came to pick us up and made sure we'd get here on time," said Alana as the sisters break up the hug. "And I do mean get here on time."
"Hey! We have a long day ahead of us and I want us all to spend some time together," said Attina as she turns to Aquata and Arista. "And make sure you two don't cause any trouble."
"Whaaat? What kind of trouble would we cause?" Arista asked who felt a little insulted.
"How about when you Arista took those stuffed animals, thinking they were free," said Adella as she pointed out one of the many times they've been to the surface and trouble found them.
"Aww but they liked me, and the owner was just being so mean," said Arista who didn't see anything wrong with what she did.
"Hey! How come you have to keep an eye on me? I've never caused any trouble," said Aquata who too felt insulted, mainly because she never did anything like what their sister did.
"You got into a fight with Arista when you thought she took your lucky seashell and your dress," said Andrina who explained what happened that time at the party.
"Okay, the lucky seashell yes, she didn't take them, but she did take my dress," said Aquata who tried to defend her actions.
"Not really helping your cause there," said Attina as she turns to Ariel. "We promise though all of us will behave and make sure Melody will have a fun time today."
"Speaking of who, where's the birthday girl?" Alana asked as she pulls out a gift, she got her. "I her a jar of plankton extract and sea salt. It will help rejuvenate the skin and won't clog her pours."
Andrina rolled her eyes with what her sister got for their niece. "Oh please no. Not that smelly thing you always used to put on your face every time before going to bed."
Alana gasped with what her younger sister and huffed. "And that's why you don't get to have any to help you with your skin."
Ariel giggled softly as she had kept quiet while listening to her sisters argue. It actually brought back a lot of good memories of her and her sisters. From having small little arguments, telling each other scary stories, comforting one another when they're sad, and being there to cheer the other up. She really missed this.
"Melody is out seeing a new friend she met yesterday," said Ariel as she explains where her daughter is at. "They'll be back before the party begins though. But I wanted to have them spend some time together before then."
"Aww that's good to hear. I'm sure Lapis will be happy to have a new friend to spend time with too," said Arista who's happy for their niece to have a new friend.
"It is," said Attina who's happy as well with the news. "I presume she's told her new friend the truth though?"
"Not yet," Ariel knew Melody wanted to wait for the right time to tell her. "But she promised me she'll tell her after she arrives."
"Hopefully before daddy gets here," said Alana who knew once their father arrives, the party will begin.
"I know," said Ariel who too is hoping Melody will tell her new friend the truth. "In the meantime, how about the seven of us go upstairs and pick out what to wear to the party?"
"Oh, that sounds like fun!" Aquata replied who got excited.
The seven sisters soon head upstairs, while making sure not to bump into any of the people, who are helping set up the decorations. Attina and Ariel walked behind their sisters who were rushing in front of them towards Ariel's room.
"By the way, I noticed there's more guards around than usual," said Attina as she spoke to Ariel quietly, so the others don't hear them. "Is everything okay?"
Ariel nods and reassures her sister everything is okay. "Eric received word that a few royal families are showing up today, who are looking to open up possible trades. Because of that, Eric hired for more guards to show up to help with our security."
"Is that right? Sounds a lot like what daddy and I have been doing," Attina explained that she's been working with their father to help open up more trades with other undersea kingdoms. "I guess daddy is hoping to bring all the kingdoms together again, before he retires."
Ariel is still shocked that their father is retiring, especially with how long he's been king. "I never actually thought I'd see the day that daddy would retire. Has he told anyone else?"
"Other than you, me, Sebastian, Urchin, and Flounder? No. He wants to make sure everything is set in stone before he makes the announcement," said Attina who knew how important this is and knew they have to keep it a secret. "I think our sisters will be fine with this though, especially with all the help they've been putting in keeping things back home in order. The only thing we're still working on is me controlling the power of the trident."
Ariel knew the power of the trident is incredibly dangerous if it's mishandled. So, she understands why her sister would need time before she can completely control it.
"Well, whatever happens, just know we'll fully support you when you become queen," said Ariel who knew no one is more qualified to be queen than her sister, Attina.
Attina happily appreciates what her sister said and gives her a quick hug. "Thank you, Ariel. I really appreciate this, and I promise to tell our sisters about this soon. I know they're aware he's going to make me queen, but they don't know just yet he's going to retire soon."
"Well, maybe we should tell them now than let them find out later on," Ariel suggested so they can avoid any further drama.
"You're right. I just hope they'll be ready for it," said Attina as the two sisters head off to catch up to their sisters and tell them the truth.
While hoping that tonight it will all go well, and everyone will have a good time.
Meanwhile
Large and medium size ships could be seen heading towards Tirulia. All clearly ships that belong to royal and noble families. All looking to arrive in time for the festivities for the birthday of Princess Melody. The ships are seen being escorted by at least one warship each, for their protection from pirates or anything dangerous.
Not that they had anything to worry about, since there's rarely been any sightings of any pirates in the area. Though the captains of the warships aren't planning to take any chances.
On one of the ships, one of the sailors is seen looking to dump the remains of the meat they didn't bother using for lunch and were whatever the crew didn't eat. The pieces fall into the water, with blood mixed around them. The crew didn't care though since they knew the food won't go to waste.
Sure enough, small sharks appeared and begin eating the food. The smell of blood attracted them as the sharks quickly begin eating the food, while the ships pass them by.
Until suddenly, the large Tiger Shark, Undertow appeared and bites down on one of the sharks. Tearing it apart, before the other sharks swam off. Undertow devoured his meal, while also taking in the meat that the humans dropped in the water. He begins eating that too, before letting out a loud burp.
"Oh yeah, that was a good appetizer," said Undertow as he looks to see the ships heading towards the mainland. "Hmm~ And I can't wait for the main course."
Undertow looks behind him to see a large thick fog approaching him. He could hear the sound of a ship sailing across the water but remained within the fog. Not allowing the sailors from the other ships to see them. Undertow couldn't help but chuckle as he swims over towards the ship, before moving his head up so the woman, standing in the bow of the ship could see him.
"I saw at least ten fancy looking ships and ten of those warships you've told me about," said Undertow as he tells her what he saw.
"Very good. Follow them and once you see where they're docked, damage their rudder," said the woman as she gives the shark his orders. "Once we make our move, you can have your fun."
Undertow begins laughing as he couldn't wait to have his fun getting his revenge. "Oh, this is going to be fun," he then stops laughing and begins looking concerned. "Now this spell of yours, it will work, right?"
"Do not doubt me, Undertow," said the woman as she begins pulling out a glowing blue vial from her coat. "While my aunt's spells are useless and my mothers' were good, mine are perfection. You'll get your revenge, and we'll get ours too. Now go and do your job!"
"Yes ma'am," said Undertow as he took off towards the ships to follow them.
While the woman motions for the crew to begin slowing down. They'll need to wait till nighttime before they can make their move. Once they do, this will be a night their enemies will never forget. And it will be a night that will lead her to getting her revenge, against their enemies.
That's the end of the chapter and hope everyone enjoyed how this went. Giving a little bit more time for Ariel and her sisters, who we never got to see much of in the television series or even the movies. Except for the prequel one they did but sucks how we didn't get to spend more time with them. So, doing my best to give them some more time.
Also, having Gabriella find out Melody's secret, while seeing she's not like the other royal kids she's met before. All the while, the two teenagers hiding their real secret from one another. Hopefully when the truth comes out it will still be okay. Only time will tell.
How will things go between when the party begins? How will things go when their party crashers arrive? Will Ariel and her family be ready for whatever comes their way? And will Gabriella stick around to help?
Tune in next time to find out & thank you all for the support for my friend. He appreciates all the support for his story and if you like how this chapter went, then please leave some reviews. Just nothing negative please. See you all next time, take good care, and have a good day.
Also Happy Halloween!