I lounged on my grand coral throne, trident firmly in hand, with my gaze fixed upon the breathtaking splendor of my underwater kingdom. Lalo'Kai stood before me, a spectacular wonderland of bioluminescent corals, iridescent abalone shells, and meticulously crafted stone architectures. The bustling activity of my subjects, swimming to and fro as they tended to their daily businesses, added a lively charm to the tranquil underwater realm.
Yet I took no comfort in the tranquil scene. My brows were drawn together, my mouth set in a grim line. Ever since Kalena's last visit to the surface, a shadow had fallen over my daughter's spirit.
Once her laughter rang bright as bells, she responded to questions with murmured words instead of her usual cheerful laughter. Something had changed within my daughter. The light in her eyes had dimmed.
It could only be the influence of the surface-dwellers. Their world poisoned her and infected her with dangerous ideas. She spoke of experiencing 'freedom,' as if our lives under the sea were chains binding her... But all I wished was to keep her safe…
I had lost her mother to the violence of men. I would not lose my precious Kalena. She may resent me for keeping her from the surface, but a father must protect his child, even from herself…
The surface-dwellers were a plague upon the earth. Kalena would see that in time. I had been too lenient before, too trusting—no more. I would stop at nothing to shield my daughter from those monsters, even if she came to hate me for it.
"Kwanalu!"
"Yes, Your Majesty?" Kwanalu asked as he approached, his silver beard trailing in the current.
"Bring me the list!" I commanded. "It is time to find a proper husband for Princess Kalena; she must marry and take her place fully among our people. Then, this fanciful obsession with the surface-dweller realm would fade."
"But, Your Majesty," Kwanalu said gently, "perhaps this is not the time; pushing her into marriage now risks further damaging your relationship."
I waved a hand dismissively. "You question my judgment on my daughter? Kalena is no longer a child! It is long before she had a husband to guide her, as a proper mermaid princess should."
Kwanalu hesitated, his bushy brows drawing together. "Forgive me, my king. But have you spoken to Kalena about this? Heard her thoughts?"
"Her thoughts!?" I repeated incredulously. "What do her thoughts matter in this!? I am her father and her king! I must ensure she makes a match befitting her station!"
"Of course, Your Majesty." Kwanalu tilted his head respectfully, though his eyes remained troubled. "I only wish for the princess's happiness, as I know you do."
I fingered the carved armrests of my coral throne, conflicted emotions churning within me. I knew Kalena resisted the idea of an arranged marriage; she spoke longingly of finding 'true love.' But such fanciful notions would only lead her astray.
I believe no Merman from our Kingdom would ever be worthy of her. But for the good of our people, Kalena had to marry. And as a devoted father, I must secure her future, even if it meant breaking her heart.
"It is decided," I said firmly, cutting off any further objections. "Now go and bring me the list."
Kwanalu bowed. "At once, Your Majesty." He turned and swam from the throne room, his expression grim.
I watched him go, my own heart heavy. But I would remain strong, as was my duty. Kalena would understand someday.