Everyone (or mostly) dreams or has wished to be able to wake up with a bright sunlight overlooking a sparkling ocean, close their eyes and smell the salty air. Whether it's because of the clean, crisp wind, the beauty of the glistening water, or even the faint cries of the seagulls floating around. It might be the simple peace of it all. Either way, few will disagree with the ocean's allure. There's nothing quite like it, no matter how much you try to argue.

A seagull's cry woke Ceanna, who opened her eyes to the familiar, bright walls, the pristine white balcony and warm brown floarboards. The sun was already filling the room with its warm light. Not wanting to waste a moment, Ceanna got to her feet and went to the window. Pushing aside the curtains, she opened it wide, letting the fresh morning air fill her lungs as she stepped onto the balcony, the stone cool under her bare feet.

She closed her eyes and breathed deeply. It was her ritual. Doing this always filled her with energy to take on the day. Of course, it was more difficult in the winter, since it was too cold to do it.

A quiet knock made her turn around.

"Come in," she called.

The door opened on a slender, dark haired girl with a pristine white apron over her dress, carrying a tray.

"Morning, Claire," Ceanna smiled.

"Good morning, your Majesty," Claire replied, curtseying as she entered. "I hope you had a pleasant night."

"I did, thank you," Ceanna said. "What about yours?"

"Pleasant as well, Miss, thank you." Claire replied.

Claire was Ceanna's appointed lady in waiting. She was five years older than soon-to-be-eighteen Ceanna, and had been tending to her for the past eight. Soon enough, they'd grown to like one another, and while Claire always refused to address her in any other terms than "Majesty", "Miss", or "Highness", she'd become rather more outspoken than when they'd first met, not hesitating to tell Ceanna if she disagreed with her or was not being reasonable (though this seldom happened).

"What do we have today, Claire?" Ceanna enquired as she dressed.

"Let's see, first is0 the final choices on decorating the ballroom for your birthday," Claire replied. "Then Lord Hunton-Blather and his son are coming to visit."

Ceanna groaned very inelegantly.

"Again? That's the third time this month."

"His Lordship and his Majesty have many affairs to discuss, you know that."

Ceanna couldn't quite decide if her attendant was reprimanding or sympathetic.

"Yes, and his son always claims to want to learn more about the relationships between our lands and ends up doing none of that, only clinging to me..." Ceanna sighed.

It was no secret that the neighbouring country, ruled by Lord Robert Hunton-Blather, was trying to get in Kretia's good graces.

"I suppose there's no way around it... What next?"

"This afternoon, you have your usual dance and music lessons," Claire replied.

"All right, then. Maybe it'll scare Edmund off. He hates dancing, from what I've seen."

Claire didn't laugh, but raised her fingers to her mouth with a rather large smile. Clearing her throat, she said:

"Shall we, Miss?"

"I suppose," Ceanna said.

Her parents had insisted on making her eighteenth birthday a spectacle. Grand ball, fireworks, the most reputed orchestra in the land, the finest food... they were sparing no expense. She, on the other hand, would have been perfectly content with something smaller. But her parents hadn't budged, and had only been rather evasive when asked why. For some reason, Ceanna wasn't sure that was a good sign.

The day wore on just about as predictably as she'd expected. The tasting was perfect, lunch and the long walk around the castle garden with Edmund was challenging, and the dance lesson was demanding but enjoyable. All in all, she was content to finally be able to return to her room after dinner that evening.

"Will you be needing anything else, Miss?" Claire inquired

Ceanna stretched and sat down on her bed.

"No, I think that'll be all. Thank you, Claire. Have a good night."

"Good night, Your Majesty." The attendant replied, curtseying and slipping quietly out of the room.

The young princess heaved a sigh and leaned back, glancing out the window. The sun was just reaching the ocean's surface, its golden red glow pouring into her room. The usual bustle had quietened down, and this was Ceanna's favourite time. She understood that a castle required a lot of maintenance, but sometimes, it all felt like a little too much.

That wasn't entirely the problem, though. The agitation, she could live with. But every day felt almost exactly like the one before. Lessons, meals with important people of the neighbouring lands or Kretian nobility, measurements for yet another dress she didn't need, more lessons or business meals... these in particular she hated because the topics were always money, geopolitics and favours, but her parents insisted she sit in on them to learn about the diversity of rulers in the world. She didn't disagree, though she was attending to get a better idea of what they were all like as leaders, and how they viewed their people. So far, none of them were entirely despicable, though none was exemplary, either.

Not feeling like thinking about that anymore tonight, she lay back, admiring the colorful fresco that decorated it. It always soothed her to look at it. She remembered the simpler times when her grandfather had still been king, leaving her parents more time to spend with her, until his death nearly three years ago. They'd designed the fresco together. Heaving another sigh, she rolled over and closed her eyes.

The royal city of Elverston, capital of Kretia, was know for sometimes getting windy at night. Such was the case tonight. The wind blew with such force that Ceanna's window was pryed open, waking her with a start. She sat bolt upright, looking around. When she realised it was just the wind, she relaxed. Now that she was awake, she saw ltitle point in trying to go back to sleep at once, so she decided to look at the night sky and deep black see for a while. The wind was calming down as she stepped onto the balcony, the floor cool and smooth beneath her pale bare feet.

Leaning against the stone balustrade, she breathed in the crips night air, her bright red hair brushed by the breeze. The waves crashed into the cliffs nearby to the west, and came and went on the beach to the east. There was no sound but those of the water and sky. There was not a cloud veiling the stars, and the moon's alabaster light coated everything in a quiet shade of blue.

It must be quite late, Ceanna noted to herself. There isn't a light on anywhere.

She was about to try and go back to bed when she paused. A new sound had reached her, carried by the wind and nearly absolute silent. A voice. Someone was singing... She stood very still, listening. She couldn't quite make out the words, but the voice sounded beautiful. She hesitated. This was possibly a dream. Yes. But it felt so real... Well, if it just a fantasy, then there was no harm in making the most of it, was there? And if it wasn't, she could just say she woke up and wanted to stretch her legs.

Without waiting a moment later, she hurried out of her room and in the direction she thought the voice had come from. Pelting into the first empty room she found, she practically tore the window open. Yes! The voice was louder here. And it was the most moving sound she'd ever heard. The song spoke of pain, loss and memory. Whoever was singing, it clearly came from the heart. Ceanna peered cautiously over the railing, trying to find who the voice belonged to. But she couldn't see anyone. Looking up didn't work either. She tried a couple of rooms further, but still, no one. Soon, though, she stopped. It sounded impossible, but unless she was much mistaken, the voice was coming from the ocean.

* * * * * *

The next morning, Ceanna had the fortune of having no engagements until that afternoon (her piano teacher was ill, and her paretns were out of town for the day. So, she decided to take the opportunity to look for the owner of that soulful, incredible voice.

"Pardon my asking, Miss, but I feel I must... are you sure it wasn't just a pleasant dream?" Claire enquired carefully.

"Quite honestly, Claire, no," Ceanna admitted as Claire buttoned her dress. "But I have to try and find out. And besides, it's such a nice day, it would be a shame to waste my free time indoors, don't you agree?"

"Indeed, Your Highness. Shall I escort you?"

"No, thank you, that won't be necessary."

Part of her just wanted a bit off time for herself. The other part didn't want to have to admit defeat in front of a witness. Defeat alone would be humiliation enough.

So, off she went, though she used a hood to cover her hair (rare in color, it caused quite the gossip), and wore a dress rather plainer than what she usually had, having borrowed one of Lucy's to blend in. She wanted freedom, but she knew her position came with a rather high risk, and didn't want to throw caution to the winds in spite of her excitement. This was most eventful thing to occur at Westonbrooke castle!

She started walking around the castle walls, trying to find a sign that someone had been there. But aside from the gardners, there didn't appear to have been. Then, she remembered thinking about how the voice had seemed to come from the water. And with the wind, it could have come from slightly further than she'd first thought. This would certainly explain her not seeing anyone. Emboldened, she headed towards the small lagoon located just outside the castle, where her parents and she ocasionally went over the summer when their duties allowed them the time. But there was nothing helpful there, either.

She couldn't get the voice out of her mind for the rest of the day. As a result, she was rather distracted.

"Ceanna, darling, are you feeling unwell?" Her father asked at dinner that night.

"Sorry? Oh... no, father, I'm fine. I just..."

"I suspect she's a little bored, dear," Queen Cordelia said. "Things have gotten a bit repetitive for her lately."

"Hm, maybe you're right," King Hugo conceded. "I'm sure our sailing trip will be a nice change of scenery, eh? Maybe that's just what you need."

"Yes... maybe," Ceanna replied, glancing out at the seemingly endless blue ocean.

The sailing trip was a customary visit to a neighbouring kingdom, with whom Kretia had a fairly good relationship. Both kings had known each other for many years, and while Ceanna didn't know if they were exactly friends, as they had different views on just about everything, they still got along well enough. And Thaizarian princess Celine was a good friend of Ceanna's, thanks to their meeting several times in their younger years.

These visits were in fact mostly to maintain the amity between Kretia and Thaizar. And this time, as she was almost of age, Ceanna got to accompany her parents. They had planned it so they would be back with time to spare to finish the preparations for Ceanna's birthday celebration, scheduled two weeks later.

"Father, did you invite princess Celine to my birthday?" Ceanna asked.

Her father frowned slightly.

"Why... no, I don't believe I have! How foolish of me! We shall have to correct that as soon as we arrive," he replied.

Ceanna nodded, hoping King Ruphus didn't take offense. It had to be said, she was rather glad to be able to go, if only to see Celine again. And her parents were right, it would be a chance to see new places, meet new people. Definitely more intriguing than yet another dance or piano lesson, which she was starting to believe weren't really needed anymore. Ten years should have been enough for her to manage by herself, shouldn't it?

"Excellent weather for sailing, Your Majesties," the ship's captain said as the three climbed aboard. "We may even get to land ahead of schedule."

It was true. The winds were strong, but warm, the sun shone high above the city with hardly a cloud in sight. The ocean was a sparkling blue, shimmering like turquoises and sapphires. It was sights like this one, Ceanna thought, that made her love Kretia even more.

"Indeed," King Hugo agreed. "Although, as I'm sure you already know, it changes rather rapidly, so keep your eyes open, Captain."

"Yes, of course, your Highness."

Soon after, they were leaving Kretia for Thaizar. Ceanna couldn't help gazing at the castle she'd grown up in. She'd never left Elverston, so this was quite a big step for her.

"A little intimidating, isn't it? Leaving your own kingdom for the first time?" her mother smiled.

"A little," she admitted. "I only know Elverston, so it's hard to imagine what anywhere else is like."

"I was nervous the first time, too," her father told her. "But it'll be fine."

Ceanna nodded silently and looked at the castle again. It did look majestic above the water. All of a sudden, something to the left caught her eye. It was a little small to make out clearly, but she thought it was a person. Was someone swimming this close to the castle? She hoped the guards didn't find them, or they'd be in trouble... Before she could be sure, however, there was a flash of movement, a splash, and whatever it was had gone.

"Ceanna? Is something wrong, dear?" her father asked, pulling her out of her daze.

"What? Oh, no... nothing..."

She cast a brief glance towards where she thought she'd seen someone, but there was no one there.

"All hands on deck! Prepare to set sail!" The captain ordered as his men rushed about checking everything. They clearly were no novices, however, as they were all ready within a few minutes. And soon enough, they were off.

* * * * * *

The storm hit them before they could avoid it. The visit had gone well, with new trade and business agreements established between the kings, and Ceanna and Celine spending some time together. She'd happily accepted the birthday invitation, and while the king had clearly not been entirely pleased they had taken so long to ask, he had graciously accepted as well. She would arrive the night before the party and spend a few days with the royal family in Elverston. That way, she would also have a chance to see Kretia for herself.

Now, just a few miles from Elverston port, the ship was struggling to stay upright. Between the heavy rain, howling wind, and thundering waves, it was all the crew could do to keep her steady. The royal family were in the cabin, trying not to panic.

"Shouldn't we try and help?" Ceanna asked anxiously.

"No, dear, we wouldn't know what to do and would only get in the way," her mother replied, her green eyes wide, her face pale as snow.

A flash of light tore the night sky, followed by an ominous growling. Ceanna shuddered against her father. She had never minded storms safe inside the castle, but being in the middle one was an entirely different story. A far more terrifying one.

"Don't worry," her father said, trying to sound confident but not quite managing. "The crew knows what they're doing. I'm sure they'll get us home safe and sound."

At that moment, the door burst open, a drenched sailor standing on the threshhold..

"Your Majesties!" he called over the rain and wind. "Are you all right?"

"We're fine, how are the crew holding up?"

"With difficulty, sire, the wind makes it difficult to manage her!"

"Do your best, and the rest we'll just have to leave up to fate," her father said.

"Yes, sire."

Just then, a muffled shout followed by an ear splitting crack reached their ears. Before the sailor could turn around, however, the mast had already begun to fall and swing around with the wind. Ceanna flung herself forwards without thinking, pushed him to the ground, but could'nt avoid the mast herself, which hit her like a cannon ball. The railings had been torn apart by the waves, so nothing could keep Ceanna from plunging into the dark water.

The silence was as deafening as iut was terrifying, pressing in on her from all sides. She could hardly see a few inches around her. She tried to push upwards,but couldn't quite coordinate her movements. Perhaps the shock had disoriented her more than she'd thought.

It was at that moment she realised she was out of air. Bubbles billowed before her, and panic shot any confusion clean out of her mind. Her chest and face felt like they were about to burst. He flailed around, trying to make her way to the surface, but couldn't tell up from down, let alone left from right. She could feel the diziness from lack of air come creeping over her. Her movements slowed, her vision blurred, her thoughts grew sluggish. The last thing she saw was a pale, white shape approach before the darkness overpowered her.

* * * * * *

The first thing Ceanna felt when she came around was a painful burning sensation. She coughed and spluttered, each breath like sand against her throat. Finally, she was able to breathe, despite it being sore.

I'm alive, she realized. Where...?

"So, you woke up." said a voice nearby.

Startled, Ceanna looked around her to see who had spoken. Beside her was a distinctly male figure, but the sun was behind him, making his face difficult to make out. He seemed to realise this too, because he said:

"Oh, sorry, I suppose you can't really see me."

He shifted so his face was visible. He seemed young, with wide blue eyes that reminded Ceanna of sunny skies. His hair was so pale it looked almost white. Ceanna had never seen a color quite like it. Although, she was hardly one to talk, what with her hair red as an apple. He was leaning over her, a small smile on his lips.

"Are you all right?"

"I think so," Ceanna croaked. "Ow... why does my my throat hurt so much?" She coughed, making it sting all the more.

"You swallowed a fair bit of ocean water," the stranger said. "The salt probabbly didn't do your throat any favors."

That' was putting it mildly, Ceanna thought.

"... Who are you?" she asked.

"My name's Tobias," he replied.

"Ceanna," she told him. "You pulled me out?"

He nodded. Now that Ceanna was able to think a little more clearly, she gasped:

'My parents, the ship," she exclaimed. "The storm..."

"Relax, they all made it back," Tobias said, his hand on her shoulder to keep from standing. "I went back to make sure."

"Hold on... you mean you swam in that chaos?! How?"

He didn't answer at once. It was at that moment that Ceanna noticed something else. He was bare chested. And now that she saw it, she couldn't help her gaze lingering on his torso. Wen she finally managed to look up at his face, she saw he couldn't have been more than a year or two older than herself.

Her eyes than traveled automatically downwards, her face suddenly very warm. All at once, she froze. Behind a rock, where his legs should have been... was a tail. A long, turquoise fish tail.

"You–you're a... a..."

She wasn't entirely sure what he was, to be honest.

"A merman," Tobias completed uncertainly. "Yes."

Ceanna could only look him up and down in disbelief.

"But... but I thought merpeople were just a legend!" Ceanna whispered.

"No, we're real all right," Tobias replied, glancing away.

Ceanna couldn't be sure, but thought he looked wistful.

"You should get back to the palace," he said after a moment, turning to her again. "They'll want to know you're safe."

"You didn't tell them?!" Ceanna asked. "They must be absolutely out of their minds!"

"I couldn't. We're not supposed to be seen," The young merman explained.

"And yet, you let me see you," Ceanna commented, frowning.

He seemed to have misssed that flaw in his logic, or else ignored it altogether, because his pale skin flushed faintly.

"Oh, well I had to make sure you woke up, didn't I? And I figured one person wasn't the end of the world."

"You're not afraid I'll tell everyone?"

"No," he shrugged. "Not really. Please don't be offended, but no one except for children would believe you," he clarified when she opened her mouth to protest. "I mean, you yourself didn't believe we actually existed until just a moment ago."

Ceanna tried to object, but found that realistically, she couldn't.

"I... suppose that's true," she conceded. "Not that was I intending on telling everyone, if only out of gratitude. You did save my life, after all. Thank you, by the way"

"You're welcome." Tobias said, smiling slightly.

There was a pause.

"Pardon my asking, but-"

"Princess Ceanna! Can you hear me?"

The two of them froze, her green eyes locked on his blue.

"Claire..." she murmured, looking towards the voice.

"Then you're in good hands," Tobias said quickly. "Goodbye."

He slipped out of sight.

"No, wait!" Ceanna hissed. "What if I-"

But he was gone.

"Oh, my goodness! Your Majesty, thank Heavens!"

Claire came hurrying towards her, yanked off the shawl she'd been wearing and wrapped it firmly around the princess's shoulders.

"Are you all right? Were you injured at all?"

"No... No, I'm fine,' Ceanna answered automatically.

"Come on, Miss, let's get you out of this wind..."

Claire said more, but her words were lost on Ceanna, who was gazing at the ocean, hoping for a glimspe of him, and finishing the question she hadn't asked.

What if I want to see you again?

"Ceanna! Oh, what a relief to find you safe!" The queen exclaimed.

The both looked like tey hadn't slept all night. Which, Ceanna realised with a small pang, was probably true.

"I'm glad you made it out too," Ceanna said, hugging them.

The morning was well onderway now. The walk back to the castle had been more tiring than Ceanna was used to. And her body felt like wood, each movement painful.

"We wanted to go back and search for you at once," King Hugo told her, "but the storm was just too dangerous."

"I know," Ceanna replied. "It's all right, Father, I understand."

"Thankfully, you made your way back too," her mother said, dabbing her eyes with a tissue. "We were so worried."

"How did you make your way back to shore?" her father asked.

Ceanna hesitated, Tobias's words about his kind not being seen echoing in her mind.

"Honestly, I'm not entirely sure. I don't remember much after falling into the water."

"Well, what matters is you're safe," the king said, wrapping his arm around her. "And now we have double the reason to celebrate your birthday!"

"Oh, Father, I know you and Mother put a lot of effort into it, but must we? I really don't feel up to a big spectacle..."

"Nonsense! We must celebrate your being alive!"

Ceanna tried to think of a reasonable argument, but soon realised it wouldn't change anything. Once her parents decided something, nothing would divert them from their path.

Oh, well, I suppose I'll just have to bear it. Perhaps I can excuse myself early and have some peace in my room, she sighed.

"If you'll excuse me, I'm exhausted. I think I'll retire for now."

"Oh, yes, of course, quite understandable after such a frightful ordeal..." Queen Cordelia said. "Try and get some sleep, dear."

Ceanna nodded and followed Claire to her room, were she showered to get the salt and sand off, changed, and fell asleep before touching the pillow.

* * * * * *.

Over the next three days, Ceanna had to escape from her classes to go down to where she'd met Tobias. She wasn't sure why she wanted to see him again. Perhaps to make sure he wasn't just a dream. Either way, she couldn't stand staying inside all day. Of course, this frustrated both Claire and her parents, but she didn't care.

Finally, on the fourth day, she reached the beach early in the morning, having sneaked out before Claire's arrival. The silence was rather soothing after the bustle and agitation that never fully left the castle.

"Persistent, aren't you?" an amused voice commented.

Ceanna smiled. There he was, in the shallow water, looking up at her.

"I felt our last encounter was cut short," she replied evenly.

"Yes, it did end rather abruptly, didn't it?" he admitted with a smile. "Sorry about that, but as we're not supposed to be seen..."

"I know," she said, sitting on a flat rock opposite him. "I understand."

"So, how are you? You seem a lot better," he noted.

"I am, yes, thank you." Ceanna answered. "Rest and warm showers do wonders."

"I'll take your word for it," he smiled. "So, am I real enough for you?"

Ceanna blinked.

"How did you...?"

"It's easy enough to figure out. You spent years thinking we didn't exist, and that belief was just turned on its head. It's only natural to want to be sure of what's true or not."

Ceanna turned pink.

"Well... yes, you're real enough," she said.

"Good," he grinned.

"I'm curious. You said merpeople were supposed to stay hidden, remember? But you let me see you again."

"Well, you seemed so intent on meeting me again, I felt I have no choice," he teased.

"You make me sound awful..." Ceanna grumbled, flushing again.

Tobias laughed. It was a clear, cheerful sound that shent shivers down Ceanna's back.

"I'm sorry, that wasn't my intent. This is new to me as well, truth be told."

That made sense, after all. They fell silent a moment, their eyes locked on one another.

"If you were not to be seen, what made you save me? That had to have been a huge risk. Your kinsmen can't be too thrilled with you."

"They wouldn't be if they knew, no," Tobias admitted.

He added something to himself, of which Ceanna only caught "If... cared... me". She wasn't sure what to make of it, but thought it best not to ask about it.

"Well, I couldn't just let someone die." Tobias replied.

"But what if it backfired?" Ceanna insisted.

He shrugged, his arms crossed on the rock in front of him.

"I guess I just took a leap of faith," he said simply.

New pause. Just then, a bell rang in the distance.

"Oh, drat, I have to get back, or I'll never hear the end of it." Ceanna sighed.

"Castle duty calls?"

She nodded with a sigh as she stood up.

"Can we meet tonight? Everyone'll be asleep so I'll have an easier time getting out."

She bit her lip.

"Unless you think it's too risky." she added. "I'd understand if you did."

He looked at her, pondering. He was probably trying to weigh the liabilities.

"Same place?" he eventually asked.

Feeling more relieved than seemed natural, Ceanna nodded.

"Perfect."

"Until tonight, then," he smiled.

She smiled back and hurried off.

And so, for the next week, that was how it worked. After dinner, Ceanna would excuse herself for the night, then slip out of the castle through the tunnel running underneath it, which was nomally used for emergencies.

Soon enough, she was on the beach, hiding her red hair under her cloak. He had to be waiting for her nearby, because it was never longer than a few minutes before he arrived.

Their time together was the highlight of Ceanna's day. She almost fogot she was a princess, when she was with him. He made her laugh, knew all kinds of things about the ocean she'd never even imagined, and even when she questioned him persistently, never lost his patience, which was quite impressive.

That evening, she made her way there as usual, but as she arrived, she stopped. There it was. That voice she'd heard the night before the storm. Clear as a bell. And it was close, she was certain of it. Her heart pounding, blood rushing, she hurried forwards, determined to see who it belonged to.

She reached the beach, and skidded to a halt. Sitting on a rock, his body angled so his lower body couldn't be seen, was Tobias. And he was the one singing. For a moment, Ceanna couldn't move, too caught up in the beautiful melody.

"So it was you," she said when he'd finished.

He looked around, smiled as he recognised her, and dived into the water. Seconds later, he was in the shallow water.

"What was that?"

"I heard this wonderful voice, the night before the storm, but I never knew whose it was," Ceanna explained. "Now, I know. You don't use that to lure unsuspecting women to their doom, do you?"

He laughed.

"No, those are the sirens. They, on the other hand, are dangerous." he added seriously.

"Noted," Ceanna said. "Oh, by the way, that day we first met, you started asking me something before I left. What was it?"

For perhaps the first time since they'd met, Tobias was the one left speechless.

"I was just wondering why you were the only one to end up overboard, that night."

"Oh, that. It's silly, really. A sailor was about to be hit by the mast. I got him out of the way, but ended up being knocked over myself."

"I don't think it's silly. Reckless, undoubtedly. But brave, as well."

Ceanna turned to the ocean to hide her red cheeks. There was a slight rustling sound. Looking down, she saw Tobias lying on the sand, looking up at the stars. Impuslively, Ceanna dropped down beside him, though she was upside down from him. The moment she did, however, she wondered if this was such a good idea. There was no mistaking the electricity coursing through her as she got closer to Tobias. She felt her face burn, her heart race, her palms grow moist...

"Me and my parents used to spend so many summer nights out here," she said, mostly to regain her composure.

"You don't anymore?"

"My parents are too busy for anything much, since father took the throne," she sighed.

"I see."

"You know," Ceanna said, " – and I know this is going to sound crazy –, but as terrifying as that storm was, I'm glad it happened."

That did seem to sound crazy to Tobias, because he sat up and looked at her with eyes that looked like they were trying to not triple in size.

"I told you," Ceanna giggled as she sat up too. "What I mean is, had the stor not occurred, we would never have met.

Tobias smiled slightly.

"Yes, that would have been a pity."

And then, as if on an invisible cue, he leaned forwards and cupped her face in his hands as she touched his elbow reflexively. It tasted a little salty, but Ceanna didn't mind. When they broke away, they exchanged silent looks, gauging the other's reaction.

"Wow... that was... unexpected," she whispered.

"It was," Tobias agreed. "But that doesn't... make it wrong, does it?"

"No! No, not at all. I was just.. caught off guard."

"As was I, to be honest."

Ceanna glanced at the ocean. The sky was starting to brighten on the horizon.

"I should get back", she said. "Dawn will break, soon. I had better return to my room before the staff wakes up and panics."

"Yes, you're right. Meet here again tonight?"

Ceanna was about to say yes, when she remembered the date and groaned.

"I wish I could, but it's my birthday party tonight, it'll be strange if I don't show up."

She considered.

"I could always make an appearance, greet a few guests and excuse myself," she said.

"I doubt your parents would agree with that," Tobias pointed out with a smile. "Never mind. We'll meet up tomorrow night."

"All right..." she agreed. "I'd better hurry."

It was then that she realised they were still holding hands. And that to her own surprise, she was reluctant to let go.

* * * * * *

The day dragged on, although Ceanna couldn't deny sleep deprivation probably had to do with it. Thankfully, she had an explanation ready for anyone who might ask.

"Do you still have nightmares, Miss?" Claire asked that afternoon. "You seem tired."

"I can't really remember them, so it's fine. It's only been a few days since the storm. I'm sure they'll go away soon."

"Should I ask for a sleeping remedy?"

"No, that won't be necessary," Ceanna said, realising too late she might have responded too hastily. "But thank you," she added.

"Very well, Miss."

Because the ball was that evening, Ceanna was excused from her usual classes. This meant, however, that she was in charge of supervising the final touches to the ball room.

"No, the lilies go by the windows, Mother is allergic," she said wearily.

She was sure that had been mentioned, and why get lilies in the first place? All in all, it0 was a long day, and Ceanna found herself just wanting it to be over.

In all fairness, the party wasn't all that bad. Her parents had requested all her favourite music and foods. The few people she spoke to were pleasant, and she managed to avoid the ones she knew not to be.

After a while, though, Ceanna needed some air. She went to the ballroom balcony, where the noise was muffled and the air fresher. The princess took a few deep breaths, staring at the endless blue abyss before her.

"Ceanna!"

It was so faint she almost thought she'd misheard.

"Down here!"

Hardly daring to believe it, she peered over the railing. And sure enough...

"Tobias!" she exclaimed. "Are you crazy? What if they see you?"

"Just tell them I'm having a night-time swim," he grinned. "I'm fine as long as they don't see my feet."

Or lack thereof, Ceanna thought with amusement.

She looked briefly behind her, but everyone was absorbed with the party.

"I'm really pleased to see you," Ceanna told Tobias, "but what brought this on?"

"Well, you didn't seem too excited about the party, so I thought you'd like it better if you knew I was nearby."

Ceanna suddenly felt rather hot, and her heart sped up.

"I do," she said. "Thank you."

They smiled at each other. But a small part of her wished he could be up here with her. He was about to speak when a new voice called:

"Princess Ceanna?"

She gasped. She'd heard that voice so many times over the last few months, there was no mistaking it. She looked down at Tobias:

"Hide! If he sees you, he'll call the guards!"

Tobias didn't seem to quite follow, but disappeared nonetheless just as Edmund Hunton-Blather appeared.

"Oh, there you are," he said, marching towards her.

"Lord Edmud, I was hoping to av-I mean run into you," Ceanna said, a forced smile on her face. "I'm glad you could come."

"Well, you turning of age is an important event."

"Uhm... yes, I suppose," Ceanna agreed.

"And this is the perfect opportunity to ask you something."

"Oh?" she asked, suddenly wary without quite knowing why.

"As you know, I am also set to inherit leadership of the people of Noraz."

"Yes."

"And both our countries have been enjoying steady relations for many years," Edmund went on.

"That's true, but I'm not su-"

"I'm getting there," he shushed her. "Think of how much greater both our countries would be if they truly united."

Ceanna had the horrible feeling she knew where this was going.

"Well, Ceanna? Will you marry me?"

Ceanna's jaw dropped. She'd been afraid of this. It certainly explained his more frequent visits lately. But that wasn't even the worst part. How had she not seen this sooner? No wonder her parents had insisted on having a grand party. It wasn't just to celebrate her birthday. They'd hoped to find her a husband, as well.

Before she could respond, however, there was a loud splash below. And to her horror, Ceanna realised Tobias had heard them.

"I'm really flattered, lord Edmund, but I must decline. Please, excuse me."

And without waiting for his reply, she hurried back inside and crossed the room, ignoring anyone who called after her. Racing down the corridor, she slipped and fell hard on the floor. Grumbling in pain, she pulled off her shoes and tossed them aside, before standing up and pelting off again. Soon, she was outside, her feet hardly making a sound. She didn't stop until she'd d reached their meeting spot.

"Tobias! Tobias, if you're there, please come out! It wasn't what it looked like! Please, come out and let me explain!"

For a few agonising seconds, only silence answered. Then, a faint noise made her turn.

"I'm here," he said.

"Oh, thank goodness. I was afraid y-"

She stopped dead. There, in the window overlooking where they were, she spotted a figure watching them, a bow and arrow in hand. And they were aiming at Tobias.

"TOBIAS, LOOK OUT!"

She threw herself forwards, flung her arms around him and pushed him downwards. A sharp pain struck her shoulder blade. They fell into the water, the salt making the pain even stronger. Ceanna let out a silent scream under the water. Tobias suddenly caught her and pulled her up to the surface. She coughed and spluttered, briefly remembering the morning after the storm.

"Ceanna? Can you hear me? Are you all right? What in the world has gotten in–"

He then saw the arrow.

"Oh, God..." What the hell happened?"

"Archer... targeted... you..." Ceanna gasped.

He helped her back onto the shore. Her whole arm was killing her.

"The arrow isn't in too deep," Tobias said. "It'll hurt, but I have to pull it out."

"All right," she replied. "Go ahead."

He placed one hand on her shoulder and gripped the arrow. With a sharp tug, he pulled it out., earning a cry of pain from Ceanna, who, surprisingly, was feeling light headed.

"You all right?" she heard Tobias ask.

"T-Tobias... don't... touch... the arrow..."

She heard his voice, but only faintly as she fell into unconsciousness.

* * * * * *

Ceanna opened her eyes to find herself in her room. The curtains were open, letting in bright sunlight.

"About time you woke up," someone teased.

"Startled, Ceanna looked round.

"Tobias! How did you get in?"

"Well..." he paused, and then, to Ceanna's astonishment, got to his feet.

"You... can walk?!"

"Yes, I can."

"But how?"

"I'm sorry, I wasn't entirely honest when we met. I wasn't born a merman. I'm a human, like you."

The man who shot at me was my uncle. As you'd astutely guessed, he'd poisoned the arrow on top of everything else. Fortunately, we got you cured in time."

"But I still don't understand how you got your legs back."

"You lifted the curse. As you know, magic is real but rare in this world. A lost art, of sorts. My uncle wanted my cousin to take the throne extremely badly, and was ready to do anything. Including resort to sorcery."

"But what did I do?"

"When you were injured, some of your blood got on my tail," Tobias explained. "Then, my legs were back."

"Did you know that would happen?"

"To be perfectly truthful... yes," Tobias admitted. "I did. That was the last time I spoke to a human until I met you. "The only way to return to normal is to spill the blood of a loved one", she said."

"Why d'you never tell me?"

"I was afraid to scare you away. And I believed she meant I had to kill a loved one. I see now that was likely the idea so I wouldn't try and break the curse."

"How long were you stuck down there?"

"It's been three years," he said heavily. "And the merfolk didn't know what to make of me, so they shunned me after explaining the rules of their kind."

Without thinking, she reached out and took his hand. He squeezed back.

"But wait," she said, sitting up. "You mentioned the blood of a loved one. So... that would mean..."

He smiled softly.

"Not exactly how I meant to tell you, but... yes. I love you."

Ceanna's face turned pink. Instead of answering, she kissed him.

"I love you too," she said as she pulled back.

They looked at each other in silence. Then, to Tobias's surprise, Ceanna giggled.

"What is it?" he asked, torn between amusement and confusion.

"I was just thinking about last night. On the balcony, when we were talking, I was wishing you could be there with me, and now you are."

He smiled.

"I'd call it fate."

"Maybe," she conceded. "In any case, I'm happy things turned out for the best."

"As am I," Tobias, tucking a lock of her red hair behind her ear.

He stood up.

"I should probably go. I don't think your father would be very pleased if he caught us here alone."

"Well, can't be as displeased as I am, I can assure you," she said. "I'll need to have a serious talk with him, and Mother."

"Is this to do with Lord Hunton-Blather's proposal?"

"Partly," she confessed. "But I suppose you're right about leaving."

"I'll try and come back later."

He leaned down, kissed her again, then left. But for the first time, Ceanna wasn't as sad as before.

* * * * * *

A year later, everything was back to normal. Or close enough. Tobias was officiazlly back as King of Clarin, which his mother had done her best to run in his absence. His uncle was now in prison, as was the witch who'd cursed Tobias. He and Ceanna struggled to find time for each other, but with the frequent business meetings, they still got to meet up fairly regularly. As promised, Ceanna had a firm conversation with her parents, who conceded to have perhaps overstepped somewhat.

Lord Hunton-Blather still came, as did his son occasionally. But now, he no longer seemed hellbent on courting Ceanna.

"Father was hoping to keep you for dinner, next rime you visit," Ceanna told him.

"You mean interrogate me again?" Tobias asked warily.

She laughed.

"I know, I'm sorry, I tried to talk to him about that, but he's so stubborn, sometimes..."

"It's all right," Tobias chuckled. "I can't really blame him for being cautious."

They had reached the front door, and only let go of each other's hand when they were in front of the carriage that would take Tobias back to Clarin.

"I'll write as soon as I can," he promised.

"I'll hold you to that," she smiled.

He kissed her one last time, then climbed into the carriage. Ceanna watched him go, confident that they wouldn't be apart long. And if the ring on her finger was any indication, someday they wouldn't ever be apart again.

***********

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