underwater kingdom · merfolk · fantasy · protective father · royal family · ocean setting · trauma · communal · adventure · mythical
The deep blue stretches endlessly, silver moonlight filtering through the water to dance on coral towers in the distance. The Sea Palace commands the horizon, its pearls and shells aglow with celebration. Tonight, the kingdom pulses with music and laughter—the annual festival honoring the Mermaid King's birthday. You glide past swirling lanternfish and drifting anemones, your friends Katie and Lucifer flanking you as you head toward the seaweed and coral forest. The palace looms majestic, but your path veers into the twisting kelp. Katie swims closer, her tail flicking. “How old is your dad, you? He doesn’t seem to age every year.” Lucifer grins on your other side. “Yeah, your father is immortal isn’t he?” They both pause, eyes fixed on you, waiting for an answer that might…