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Gem was always told by her pod leader that humans were not to be trusted.
But…
Wow, they are really pretty.
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When Gem first left the pod to explore outside the adult’s supervision, she was 15. It was a bit more of a rebellion than anything. Gem wanted to be able to help! Why couldn’t she? Sure, all of the pod members that are helping around were older than her, but she’s really strong! When she complained to the other pod member, Jimmy just shrugged. “I don't know about you Gem, but I really like not being bullied by Grian because he’s too busy gathering with his situationship.”
Gem laughed, taken off guard by the merman’s abruptness. “I think everyone but the two know that they're dating each other at this point!”
Jimmy smiles at Gem’s response, and the two giggle manicly into their bedding. “Okay, “ Gem starts, “Maybe it is kinda nice not seeing our pod mates tease us for being the youngest out of the bunch. Man, remember when Big B became of age?” Jimmy perked up, remembering the same incident and smirking. “Didn’t Big B try to fight a shark because he thought that's what being a hunter meant?"
Gem nodded just as gleefully as she felt, “Yeah! He got scolded and got sent back to us in the nursery! What a day that was…” Jimmy nodded knowingly.
“Anyway!” Gem shouted, slightly startling Jimmy, "I'm going to go to… um. Do mermaid things like brush my hair and stuff now. Boji lakine lah Jimmy!” Jimmy flushed, and quickly left their shared room. Jimmy was both kind and dumb like that. He was respectful so he wouldn't come back for the rest of the day because all the pod girls refused what their girl time was (Gem’s was usually just exploring near the border) and the boys never asked out of respect. And the adults never really noticed as long as they finished their daily chores.
Gem waited for a bit, hearing Jimmy swim away from their shared room (The nursery) and got up. Honestly, Gem thought it was weird that their pod had to wait until 16 to be of age. One time she met a pod with 13 as their age limit. Both she and Jimmy were clearly old enough to know what's dangerous or not, it's frustrating!
Gem shook out her gils, she didn't want to start plucking her scales or anything because of something so avoidable. Then, a little mischievous thought came to her. What if she snuck out? It's not like she’d be the first or anything…
Gem closed her eyes, listening to anything that could indicate that one of the elders were nearby. All she really heard was Grian and his boyfriend giving each other terrible pickup lines. She was in the clear, as the two wouldn't even notice if Gem even walked into the room.
If he was paying attention, he could easily track the little magic she had. Fortunately, Grian hates using magic, after some kind of incident where he got taken and another pod taught him many kinds of magic. Grian was probably the best at magic if it wasn't for the way it was taught. He never liked talking about those 3245 ticks gone.
Gem grabbed a sack, stuffing in some small snacks and some bottles of luck her mom gave her. Gem also took her magical bracelet, just in case anything happened of course!
And off she went! Gem had to do lots of ducking and dodging, but before long, she was out of the borders! Gem almost felt blissful, she was exploring! Not even the Gatherers were allowed outside the borders for long! She felt like she was doing something taboo, even though she literally was.
‘Adventure awaits for no one!’ She thought as she willed her tail to swim. Maybe she could find some more kinds of food if she ventured far enough? No, that would give her away that she actually left. Maybe she could find another pod nearby to see how they run things? Or maybe she would find human treasure! Gem continued to mindlessly wander towards a random direction. She almost ran into a giant wooden pole heading straight up.
Wait, what?
Gem stopped abruptly with her realization. Where…. Where was she? Why was there a pole here? As she looked around, Gem realized that there were actually around 12 poles, and a weird sort of roof outside the water. Why would a merperson build a structure so close to the surface? Don't they know about humans?
“Pearlllll, I am in need of some of your big strong muscles pleaseee. The stuff on the port is too heavy!!” a voice whined from above. Another voice laughed, “Ren, aren't you a king? You're supposed to show us poor peasants how utterly divine you are!” The original voice bellowed out a laugh, “Oh dude, if I was chosen by my god, they would have been disappointed in me and I would have suffered from a heart attack!”
“Oh my Sun,” Gem whispered, voice hardly heard over the rushing water, “I am near a human port…” How did she get here? Their pod leader said the nearest human settlement was around 335 coords away! (Or around 500-ish human miles, she's very smart like that after all Gem is great) There is no way she could have gotten here in 40 ticks (Her mind also translated that to 40 human minutes from her transformation class) that fast! Gem quickly swam under the port as the humans chatted away.
She then peaked her head out the water, finally away from any human view to look at the sun. Oh, that was very much NOT 40 ticks, that had to have been around 200 ticks! How did she not notice!? Oh she was in so much trouble for sure! Gem had to start heading back.
She dived back into the water, careful to not let herself splash too much and started swimming away. Sadly, no matter how dumb humans are, her transformation teacher taught Gem that humans were really good at noticing strange things. Thankfully, Gem was over-prepaired!
Gem used her magical bracelet to get human legs. Gem has only had to use the bracelet once, and it was for her class final so she's not really used to legs. The one time she had used it, she didn't bother to take off the human clothes and so it stayed with the form. Gem’s teacher tried to explain how that happened, but honestly, Gem just wanted to pass the class.
However! Because of her laziness, Gem now had human clothes and was sitting on a rock. She felt rather silly now, because now she can’t detransform for another 1440 ticks. (her mind automatically gave her one human day. Now is not the time stupid brain!) Just her luck….Maybe she could tell the elders she got taken by a net, it has happened before with Mumbo. Gem’s pretty sure Mumbo got caught in one of the human’s fishing nets and was pulled outside the borders for a bit until he managed to cut the ropes and swim back to the pod.
Who is she kidding, she's so screwed. Stupid need for adventure! Now that Gem thought of it, this was definitely one of her dumber ideas. Well this is what she gets for thinking the elders wouldn't notice her missing, she guesses.
Gem jumped into the water, making a loud splash intentionally. Maybe she could pretend she's drowning? That's something humans can suffer from, right? Oh well, she already committed to the bit, she might as well.
After the initial dive, she pretended to struggle for a bit, and then stopped moving, causing her body to sink into the water. Gem could kind of hear some sort of shouting from outside the water, but she just let her eyes close.
‘Wow, these humans are really inconsiderate. They're just leaving me here to drown.’ Gem thought with an internal pout just before another loud splash and a body jumped into the water. Gem quickly closed her eyes and waited to be picked up.
A pair of hands wrapped around her midsection. Gem almost gasped because of the foreign feeling but thankfully didn't. Gem got pulled out the water with the human, with the human shouting very loudly in her ear.
“Ren! Get some healers, don't just stand there!” Said the human that ‘saved’ her. The other human that was complaining earlier then ran off, leaving Gem with the second human. Gem was about to fake waking up when the human started pushing on her chest. Huh?
Maybe that's something humans have to do? Man, Gem really felt like throwing up-
Gem then sat up and turned on her side, starting to cough out water from her throat. The human patted her back, saying things Gem couldn't understand with the ringing in her ears until it subsided.
“-ere, let it all out. You got it mate! Don't worry, the healers will check you after,” the human tried to reassure Gem. Gem looked up at the human, making eye contact. The human looked worried, but smiled at her. The human spoke with a head tilt “You ‘alight?”
Gem could feel blush flooding into her cheeks, ‘oh my gosh’ Gem thought as she looked at the human. The human was, how should she put it? Gorgeous, elegant, stunning, radiant, captivating, mesmerizing, attractive, beautiful, breathtaking, angelic, divine, magnificent- oh her poor little heart couldn't take it.
The human was female, with the bluest eyes Gem’s ever seen. Her eyes reminded Gen of shallow water, of even the sky on a slightly cloudy day. Not too hot, not too cold, but just right for doing the daily chores. The human also had multi coloured hair, with a light blond as the fringe that framed her face nicely, and a dark brown as the rest. She wore a tight blue undershirt that very much complemented her eyes.
All in summary; she is very pretty and Gem wants her. However! She is still a stinky human. A very pretty human, yes, but a human nonetheless. Oh, Gem took too long to respond.
“Um,” She said, clearly very elegantly. “Im- um, Okay. I fell into the-um, water. Sorry.” The human girl laughed, still keeping a soft smile on her lips. “Yeah,” The human says, “That happens a lot more than you would think, you know?”
Gem nodded dumbly. “Anyway, my name is Pearl Moon-Escent, from the Red Kingdom! I'm not wearing my armor because it's heavy when wet, but I promise I'm a knight. What’s your name?” The human- Pearl, asked. “Uh,” Gem started, “My n-name is Gem, just Gem.”
Pearl queried an eyebrow. “Okay, ‘just Gem’. You need help getting up, mate?” Gem nodded again, but didn't move her arms. She's not really used to the gravity outside the water, and clearly Pearl could tell something was wrong. Thankfully Pearl didn’t ask questions, she just picked up Gem in a bridal carry (don't ask how she knows that, she's not sure either) with surprising strength.
Gem breath hitched for a moment, but she let herself be carried with little resistance. She tried not to look too much, as she’s heard that it's rude in human culture, but Gem couldn’t help it. Pearl was a surprisingly strong human.
Gem got carried off the docks, and got placed into a…. moving mini ship? She wasn't sure what it was, it was a large wooden structure with wheels. At the front of the whole thing were two horses that were tied to it. Inside the…thing…. was the other human Gem had seen before! He must be the Pod Leader (Or King in human terms, she thinks?) of the humans near the dock! She guessed based on the crown he now had on his head that he very much didn't have before. Oh, and also the big ass cloak the guy now wore.
“Hey Ren, did ya actually warn the royal healers for her or did you just get the carriage?” Pearl deadpan, gently placing Gem onto the side of the carriage (??) with no one on. Pearl sat right next to Ren, still maintaining eye contact. Ren sputtered out some kind of excuse Gem did not at all understand. Pearl raised her eyebrow and Ren finally looked down and kept his eyes locked on his lap.
…This is kinda awkward now…. What is Gem supposed to do? Tweedle her thumbs? She's also got that weird ringing in her ears again, as well as a ‘ba-dum’’ going off in a rhythmical way. It almost sounded like music. Gem could almost fall asleep to it.
Huh.. wha
t a ni
ce id
e
a
..
.
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Gem awakes in a white place. She feels funny… What happened? She feels hungry, she wonders what the elder hunters got from their hunt…. Gem feels sick. Did she get air sick from being near the shore for so long? She’s heard that's what happens when near the shore for so long.
…When did she return home?
….. Why is she breathing with her nose and not her gills?
Gem harshly opened her eyes, springing up from the bedding she was laid in. Where was she!? She's not sure… Gem could feel a headache from all of the blurriness she's witnessing. Gem rubbed her eyes and blinked away the nonsensical colors, until she saw the room in full clarity.
It wasn't as white as she previously thought. It had lots of brown and red as well as some kind of banner or flag hung up on the wall. It looked kinda ugly, but she’s not one to judge (she thinks while glaring at the banner in discontent) so she continues to look around the room.
The woman that saved Gem (Pearl, if she remembered correctly) was sitting on a chair, sound asleep. Instead of the tight blue undershirt and leggings she had worn when Gem was ‘rescued’ from drowning, Pearl had some dark blue jeans with a simple but elegant white shirt that was folded up to her elbows. Her hair was clinging to her face, slightly damp and had a blanket wrapped over her body.
Pearl looked kind of sick, if Gem were to be honest. Do humans get sick if they go into the water? Surely not if they have all of those ships and dumb sports. To be fair though, merpeople do also allow their merchildren to play on inactive underwater volcanos. Also why would she jump in just to save Gem if she was gonna get sick?
Humans sure are dumb.
Gem moved to get off the bed, sliding her legs into the floor. The floor was cool, with the wooden floor being polished and prim looking. Not anything like the wood that’s underwater at least. Gem tried to stand, but there was a weird pressure on her legs that kind of hurt so she sat back down again. She might as well wait for the human to awake.
…
Nevermind. Gem’s already bored. Is this because she hangs out around Jimmy, Scott, Grian, Scar, and Lizzie? The group are like a bunch of overexcited calves, or baby dolphins, when they're all together and act like normal upstanding merfolk when separated or busy. She’s not used to actually waiting when everyone around is always swimming around and looking for the next adventure.
….Does she have a short attention span?? Nahhhhh, Gem is much too great for that. Everyone around her has similar, if not shorter, attention span. Anyway! Gem needs to find a way to wake up the- um, Pearl! Gem looks around the room with her head until her eyes land upon a small sea shell. Gem snatches it up and gently throws the shell to Pearl.
“AUGH-! I’M UP REN, I’M UP! WHATDA WANT- oh!” Pearl looked at Gem, who was looking at Pearl as innocently as possible. Gem used her sea bunny eyes that no one could resist back home. Pearl ‘awwww’-ed at Gem’s expression. Looks like her newly made plan of ‘sit still and look pretty’ was working!
“Awww, mate! You look just like a puppy with those eyes! Cute little puppy eyes!” Pearl exclaimed while standing up to cradle Gem’s face in her hands. Gem felt a bit embarrassed, isn't this what lovers do?! Then again, Gem is pretending to be human right now so maybe this is a normal gesture? Gem didn’t learn that in her transformation class but just like merfolk, humans are everchanging. Also, what is ‘puppy’?
Pearl then held out her hand to Gem, a gentle smile on her face as her beautiful sky blue eyes gazed upon her. “You okay? Do you need me to carry you? I saw your legs shaking.”
Gem looked at her, flush slightly showing on her face as she said, “Yes please.” Definitely not because of the big strong muscles the human had or anything
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Gem is definitely in trouble. She’s been outside without her pod for around 131400 ticks, or a little over 3 months. She just couldn’t seem to find it in her heart to leave. Pearl was a kind person who helped Gem with anything she asked. Gem wasn't able to walk around (because she never has) so Pearl carries her around when needed.
The royal medics told Gem, Pearl and Ren that Gem’s legs were in okay condition to walk, she just needed much more strength as it seemed she hadn't been able to walk for around a month (apparently, even though Gem never has. Maybe she has strength from her swimming?) before she was found by the hu-people. The people
Gem practiced standing and supported walking with rails. Pearl was usually nearby when she practiced, as Gem didn’t want Pearl to know she also practiced at night. Gem tries to escape, but there are just too many guards around! (At least, that's what she tells herself)
Currently, Gem was sitting on a chair as a lady ran around and showed her a whole lot of dresses. Most of them were either red or white so Gem wasn't interested in them.
“Are you not pleased in any of the dresses, my lady?” The lady asked inquisitively. Gem shook her head, voice low. “I don’t think I'd look all that nice in white or red. I’m sorry.”
“Oh my! Don't you worry, my lady! What sort of dress color would you like, Lady Gemini? Perhaps royal blue to accentuate your hair? Or maybe purple to show your relation to his majesty? Or maybe even white to show off your purity-”
“Could I wear green?” Gem asked. “I really like green, especially light green. It could match my eyes and I like nature!”
“...Green? Why not another color, my lady?” asked the maid. “Green reminds me of trees, and I like trees.” Gem says happily. The maid looked a bit put off, but eventually agreed. Gem didn’t know what the issue was, green is a lovely color after all. ‘Maybe it's a banned color’ she thought with an evil smirk.
With the other dress colors, there were around 30 different dresses Gem could pick from, with red having over 50, but green had 4 dresses. They were all rather simple compared to the other dresses but Gem liked the color so she didn’t mind.
‘That one’s too dark, that’s too small, and the other ones too… um..much.’ Gem thought as she looked at the dresses. The first dress was a green and black dress, with the green looking more like blue with how dark it was. So that’s a no go. The second one was really nice, but the person it was meant for was clearly around 10 years old. Gem’s not even going to talk about the 3rd one.
The last one was the only one she could really wear. It was a sage green princess-styled dress, with a heart shaped neckline and puffy sleeves. It didn't really have anything else going on, but Gem really liked it. She could decorate it if it came down to it, but she didn’t really want to. “This one's nice, can I wear it?” Gem asked the lady.
“Well, if you like it, you may Lady Gemini.” said the maid. ‘Wow, very helpful insight’ Gem thought sarcastically. Gem did end up getting the dress because she can never get bullied into any kind of social construct, or else she’ll never hear the end of it from her podmates. Gem also grabbed some simple white shoes to match the dress’s aesthetic. The lady that helped her bowed her head, and left the borrowed room, saying something Gem couldn’t quite catch.
Oh well!
Gem slipped on the dress with ease, tying the back only a bit too tight. Opps. Gem put on some white stockings and tied the white shoes. Is white on white tacky? Gem still isn't sure of human trends just yet, but she's getting the hang of it! Not this one though, while Gem is a ‘blending in’ pro, she also can’t read human minds (sadly) so she has to rely on the reactions of the people in the castle.
Gem looked into the mirror she was given. Wow, she looked so….plain. “Maybe a hairclip..?” She muttered out loud, looking through some drawers. She smiled sadly when she stumbled across a seashell one, both small and a bit hard to notice. She placed it back down and grabbed a laurel crown, colored in green. Gem placed it in her hair, and it almost immediately disappeared into her hair.
“Well, that's no good.. Maybe something else..?” What if she just went without one? It doesn't really matter, does it? Maybe she could wear a star hairclip? Ooo, or maybe a fake leaf? Or she could also do a little pink heart? Or a snowflake-
“Gem! Whacha doing?”
Gem screamed, accidentally throwing the hairclip she had in her hands. It was a small yellow bird. Pearl caught it with ease with one hand. “Aw, this is cute mate, but I'm not sure yellow would go with your current color palette if you have green and white.”
Gem sighed “I wanna put something in my hair, but im not sure what. I look boring without anything..” Pearl gave a thoughtful ‘hmmm’ and grabbed a hairbrush and some hair ties. “I think you need a hairstyle more than a clip. We could do some space buns? Or maybe a crossed half updo? I'm not great at much, but I could try?”
“Ohhh, yes please! I don't even know what any of those things are to be honest. Just do whatever you like!” Gem exclaimed in excitement. Pearl chuckled but started to brush Gem’s hair gently. It felt nice, almost like when Jimmy patted her head during rest time. It felt both nostalgic and soothing at the same time, she liked it a lot.
“Be careful now mate, you might fall asleep before I finish.” Pearl said gently, pausing the brush to grab a hair tie. Gem blinked out the sleepiness from her eyes, feeling kinda embarrassed. “Sorry Pearl.” Pearl just laughed a bit as she finished off Gem’s hair.
“It's a crossed half updo, I thought it might suit you because of the simple dress.” Pearl said. Gem nodded and looked into the mirror again. “Oh- It's so pretty Pearl! I love it, thank you!” Gem sat upright and gave Pearl a kiss on the cheek.
Pearl instantly started short circuiting and just looked at Gem with wide eyes. A rosy blush filled Pearl’s cheeks as Gem then gave her a hug. “Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! This was just what I needed! I can finally start heading to the main hall thingy!’ Gem hurried out the door with another rushed “Thanks Pearl!” While Pearl stood still like a statue. ‘Maybe Pearl isn't coming after all?’ Gem thought to herself as she spedwalked to the main room.
Gem touched her face as she fixed her hair a bit. Why was her face so hot? Her face felt weird with how stupidly hot it felt. She hiked up her dress a bit when walking down the stairs, a lesson she learned when walking around a lot more recently. She moved her head up as she heard her name being called.
“Lady Gemini! How pleasant it is to meet you, my fair lady.” A man said with a bow at the bottom of the stairs. Gem bowed as well as soon as she reached the bottom as well, trying to remember how to address people. “And I, you. May I ask for your name?”
The man smiled a radiant smile, his perfect face almost intimidating Gem. “Why, my name is Duke Scar Ailouroeidís, from the kingdom of Exousía! It is truly an honor to meet you, Lady Gemini!” he spoke as he grabbed her hand and kissed it. Gem smiled, “Oh please, call me Gem.”
“Why of course Lady Gem! Which house are you from, if I may be so bold to ask?” Oh right, humans like surnames and ‘kingdom’ names. Why do they need to know where she lived? Time to gaslight, gatekeep, and girlboss this guy. “Oh, why of course! My name is Lady Gemini Tay from the kingdom of Foniás, pleasure to meet you, your grace.” she ended with a bow. Yeah that’s right, Gem’s a professional human actor now. Gemini isn't even her real name, take that! ha!
Duke Scar muttered “I’ve never heard of Foniás or of the Tay name, strange…” Before he gave her another smile. “May I have the pleasure of escorting you to the main hall, my lady?” “Oh why certainly, your Grace.” Duke Scar held his arm out, which Gem took with ease.
“Might I say,” Duke Scar started, “Your dress is a rather beautiful color. Not many ladies chose green in this kingdom however.”
Gem felt nervous, did he figure her out? Surely not, right? Quick Gem, focus! “Why, thank you for your kind works, your Grace. I am rather fond of the color as it reminds me of nature and of the outside.” Please buy that, please buy that, please buy that, please buy that-
“Green is a rather beautiful color indeed! To me, it actually reminds me of the sea, you know?” Gem could feel herself getting sweaty. Why did he mention the sea? Does he… know? Oh shit, Gem is fucked. "In fact, it reminds me of someone I met once back in my younger years, you know? An older guy who’s name was Etho Ergastírio! He has white hair and red eyes, sounds impossible right? You’d think so but we grew up in the same community near the sea, haha!”
Gem knew who he was talking about. Etho S. Lab, a half human, half merman. He’s one of the elder merchildren, if not the eldest. No one really knows how old he is other than the actual elders, so no one talks about it. His human father takes him during the colder times while his mermaid mother takes him in the warmer times, although he is free to do as he pleases. Gem used to bother Etho about information from humans. And he always gave it.
Etho also had other half human, half mer friends, if Gem remembered correctly. Impulse Stereós-Voós (who goes as his initials SV), Tango Talénto, and Scar Ailouroei- wait a minute! Gem looked at Du- Scar well. Like really well. And just as she suspected, as she concentrated well on his face as he talked about some kind of clearly made up backstory, she could see strings of magic.
Exousía, meaning power. Meaning magic. Which also means merman if she can concentrate enough on his face. Scar was oblivious to Gem’s new goal, waving his hand around and about while talking about some kind of ‘cat’ thing, whatever that is. Lines of purple slowly unraveled themselves in Gem’s eyes, slowly but surely showing orange gills on Scar’s face.
‘Bingo.’ Gem thought with a mysterious smirk across her face.
Now to tell Scar about herself. Subtlety of course, as Gem has class after all.
“I also grew up near the ocean, your grace! What a coincidence, haha! I'm shocked we’ve never met til today with how tight-knit the community was.” There! A very unbelievable lie that anyone could tell from a mile away. Every creature knows that humans hate each other for some unexplainable reason. Still, Scar smiled and said “Why yes, how odd we’ve never met! Perhaps we live in different regions?”
“Perhaps so. You know, I actually knew Etho as well. I liked watching him when he swam against another friend of mine.” Gem said, hoping she’s actually getting to him about the whole ‘we are merpeople’ thing. Scar looked at Gem puzzled. “Etho can’t swim, if he does he’ll tur- UM LOOK OVER THERE!” Scar exclaims. Gem, foolishly, actually looks and when she sees nothing, she looks back to question Scar only to find no one there…? Oh, that jerk!
“Duke Scar!? Where did he go…” Gem looks around. Hmm.. What would Gem’s mom say about a merman?
‘“A merman should only follow after a mermaid, never the other way round my sweet girl. And if a merman expects you to chase, you find another one as that one is too dirty for you. If he ever does run, he is with another of his own kind.”’
The advice might be for relationships, but it should work the same. ‘Another one of his kind’...? Does Gem need to find another man? She’s not sure if she knows of anyone other than Ren, so she guesses she’ll just walk to the main hall (it was called that, right?) by herself. The ‘tap tap tap' of Gem's shoes quietly made itself known as she walked down the rather empty hallways.
Gem didn't really know where she was going but as long as she looked like she did, it was fine. She thinks, right? She was mostly following any knights or maids as they always fo near the places where any and all important people go. That's what Pearl said, at least.
Gem saw a lady cleaning a vase and watched as she meticulously cleaned the vase over 3 times with different rags, and finally used a polish to make it shine. The lady left the vase and walked off and Gem followed after her. Just then, she heard chatter from a large door. Bingo!
Gem couldn’t use the main inside door, obviously because it was currently closed, so she looked around for some kind of side door. Why do rich humans have so many big doors, but no small doors!? Gem watched as a chief (yeah she knows what a chief is, don't ever doubt her!) wheel in a large 5-tier cake in a small door. Perfect!
Gem quietly followed him, and finally found her way to the main hall. And wow was that a deserving title. Gem couldn't really see any people with green so she hoped to find Ren and hang out with him, as Gem kinda liked his company. Where is he though?
“Introducing his royal majesty, Ren Skylí-Kókkinos!” ‘Wow, that sure was convenient’ Gem thought as she looked up to a large balcony at the front center of the hall. There, Ren stood with no expression on his face. He was wearing a very red outfit, but Gem thought he wore it in a way that isn't considered a hazard or a color vomit unlike some of the other people in the room. Ren was talking about things that she didn't care for and Gem didn't really want to listen to so she just looked at the knights lined up instead. While Gem understood the whole ‘dont differentiate so no one looks too important to kill in fighting’ she still found it hard to find Pearl.
So, Gem did the only logical thing! Originally she was gonna place a sticker on Pearl, but Pearl explained to her that stickers aren't professional and she could get removed from protecting the castle. Instead, Gem placed a small, almost unnoticeable sticker on every other knight so Gem could find the one without one and find Pearl! Gem scanned each of their shoulders until she came across the only one without a white sticker. Pearl! She was wearing the boring uniform of the kingdom's traditional and elaborate uniform for ceremonial occasions and was a deep scarlet color with a little bit of white. She wasn't wearing any armor, or maybe she was under the very hot looking uniform. Gem didn't know.
Pearl had to bring her sword fully covered as it could freak out the rich freaks but Gem knew it was polished to perfection under its enclosure. Gem was told by Pearl that the sword was a traditional sword although it was only practical for guys, as it was too heavy for most female knights to comfortably carry around.
Gem was also told that giving gifts were a sign or appreciation when given to another. She had meant to give Pearl a gift before the whole thing started, the hairclip thing distracted her for a while, long enough to forget about it. Sadly, Pearl also told Gem that she’s not allowed to give presents to other people, just the host of the party. So if, theoretically, Gem gave the present to Ren, she could tell him to give it to Pearl!
Um, anyway! Gem started clapping along with all the other people, to Ren at the top of the balcony when her eyes finally let her look away from Pearl. Ren was looking at Gem, a small smile on his face that most people would mistake as friendly. Gem knew it was because he had just heard some kind of spicy drama, with that small glint in his eyes.
Not long after the entrance of Ren, the rest of the other people finally dispersed and spread out. Gem had to find Ren, she was on a mission! She needs to not look like a LL (aka a lonely loser) and she needs to give the nicely wrapped present.
Something not many humans know is that magic is a very much real thing. She grew up with the idea that magic was not real and that nature just made humans and mermaids look the same. Why mermaids could disguise as humans with blessed jewelry. She thought that everything had an answer other than ‘just because’.
That was what she had been taught to think by her elders.
At least, until Grian’s Incident.
She never doubted whether magic was real after that.
Instead of most of her Pod Members, Gem actually threw herself head first into magic after its discovery to the pod. She tried to learn any and everything there was to know. Gem learned about controlling currents, learned how to stop liquid from flowing (yeah she could stop most other substances as long as they had some water, take that polluted water!), and anything else she found interesting.
She’s not that great at non-water related magic, but she can do basic stuff like enchantment, minor love spells, small bits of invisibility, and her current most used spell; air breathing. Despite that, Gem was able to fully enchant a european-styled scythe with lots of cool red detailing. When hidden, it looked like a friendship bracelet made of silver with garnet as a small gemstone in the middle of the bracelet.
Gem had it tucked away in a small white box with a red bow on top. Maybe it's kinda cliche but red looks good on Pearl so Gem won’t be embarrassed over it.
Gem waited for Ren to notice her because of some sort of ‘manners’ the humans really like. Something about it being too bold for women to approach a man, or something like that. She thinks it's nonsense, but if she's in human territory, she will (somewhat) respect human rules. And their very weird ‘manners’.
“Lady Gemini, it's wonderful to see you once more!” Ren said with a bow and a kiss on her hand. Gem smiled “Oh no, Your Majesty, the pleasure is all mine truely.”
Ren held out his arm, and Gem kindly took it. Over the past few weeks, Gem has come to actually befriend the guy, and she actually enjoyed his company. He did make too many dad jokes for her liking though, but only when they were in a more private place. He also really likes land seals (dogs) and shelters them in his castle. Gem’s favorite land seal was the one that was given to Pearl, called Tilly.
The ballroom got very loud with whispers as the two of them danced. Gem wasn't great at it, but it sort of felt like swimming so that was fun. Although, the whispering was bothering her a lot. If someone is whispering, isn't the point so you can't hear it?
“-fancy her?-”
“I thought the King di-”
“-ew heir? She has the right bod-”
“-ould wed! So cute!”
“-ut time he got a lady..”
“-he food is good, m’lord!”
“-doesn’t she have shame?”
“How scandalous-”
‘Whatever’ Gem thought as she moved about the ballroom with Ren. She was having fun and that was all that mattered! Gem also wasn't sure what was up with people staring and whispering. Like, yeah, maybe Gem wasn't the best dancer, but she wasn't that bad! Still, she kept a smile on her face as the two danced around the room together. They also had some idle conversations that Gem forgot the moment Ren waited for her input. It was fun, and he laughed off her confused looks.
“Hey, Ren?” Gem whispered as quietly as she could. Ren gave her an inquisitive look, with a ‘go ahead’ look after. “Could you give this to Pearl? I’m really tired but I also really wanna give Pearl her gift.”
Ren smirks a knowing smirk and takes the box. “Of course Gem! I’ll be sure to give it to Pearl whenever I can spill away. That’s a Ren Skylí-ity Kókkinos promise!” Ren vows. He then pulls away from Gem as she gives him her thanks. People started swarming Ren as soon as she left him, but now that's not her problem. The main palace gates were wide open now, so Gem slipped through and went off into the garden.
The garden was a long walk away from the main palace door, but Gem liked the garden so she didn’t mind too much. If it was a straight path, it would be a lot shorter but the path was actually rather windy with lots of random stops. Gem thought it gave the path more charm. In the time she's been here, the bushes and trees always fully cover the pathway with shade and have a nice cool breeze.
When Gem reached the garden, she couldn't help but breathe in the smell of all the flowers. That's actually one of her favorite things about the land. The flowers. The ocean kinda has flowers, seagrass, but the land’s true flowers were magnificent and beautiful. They were so delicate and fragile, but still captivated her eyes enough to not be scared to make a mistake. It reminded her of someone with stunning brown hair and gentle blue eyes with the smallest hint of mischief.
Flowers reminded her of….
Pearl.
Sweet, adventurous, playful, bold, confident, courageous, and wise Pearl. Who never backed down from a challenge, and always held her head up high. Who Gem always saw walking around the palace with a hand on her sword and careful glances around rooms. Pearl, who had such a busy schedule, but still made time to talk to Gem despite having to run around the place all the time. Pearl, who never denied Gem whenever she asked her anything, and never questioned her for not knowing common human things. Pearl, who Gem…. really liked to be around whenever she could.
Gem liked being around Pearl. Gem’s not sure if that's a good or a bad thing. There is only one way to know, after all. Gem’s eyes glanced around the garden, and zeroed in onto her favorite spot. A secluded spot covered in leaves and rose thorns. It was the perfect place to practice her reading and writing. At least, English reading and writing. Gem was more used to Lunarianic even though It's technically more of a shortcut thing she and her podmates made for fun. She did use English with the elders of the pod, but she used a mix of Lunarianic and English otherwise. While Gem pondered over this, she practiced her English alphabet in a given notebook.
A B C D E F…
“Gemmm! Where are yah?” a familiar voice exclaimed. Pearl!
Gem closed her book and left her secret little area, walking into the bigger, less thornier garden. “Pearl! Didya get my gift? Didya, Didya, Didya?”
“Of course I did, it's so lovely, thank you!”
“It's no problem really!” it took nearly all the time she's been here to get it.
“Well thank you anyway, it's very well crafted. I really like the red glass stone, it compliments my eyes.”
“It's actually garnet. Did you know that garnet is apparently magical and can be disguised as other things if a witch knows what they're doing? It’s also one of the stones that people use to make redstone if redstone isn't common where they live” Why is Gem calling herself a witch? She isn't quite sure.
“Whoa! Really? That's so cool! I didn't know garnet was considered magical. I thought it was a thing that witches just turn to dust for more coolness in the process. Y'know?"
“Coolness? Is that even a word?”
“Maybe…?”
“Huh.”
Gem thought for a moment. Humans make weird words, so maybe? Pearl kept on studying her face, so Gem flushed a bit. Wow, being looked at was a really weird feeling. It made her all hot in the face, with her heart going much faster than it did when swimming. Although, that was only with Pearl. Maybe she’s got magic? Is there such a thing as magic to make people feel hot? Maybe, Gem didn't really pay attention during lectures.
“Maybe it's a word for northern people? I've never been up north though.” Pearl thought out loud, snapping Gem out of her own thoughts. “How would you have heard of that then?” “Um, probably from some of the noble families that come from up north? I think there is really only one other large kingdom that comes to Dogwarts, and that's the kingdom of magic otherwise known as the kingdom Exousía. I think Duke Scar comes from there, but I’m not entirely sure.”
Gem makes a ‘oooo’ sound and nods. Good to know.
Pearl grabs Gem’s hand gently. And just… held it. Is this another human thing, perhaps? Pearl refused to look at her though, head turned exactly the opposite way. Gem could see that Pearl was very clearly nervous though. It felt nice though so Gem didn't mind. Pearl grabbed something from her pocket, and threw it at Gem.
It landed directly on her face.
Rude but Pearl was pretty so she didn't mind. Gem used her unoccupied hand to grab the unknown thing. It was a yellow envelope. She wanted to open it, but Gem also didn't want to let go of Pearl's hand so she painstakingly used her mouth to gently open the envelope. Gem could see Pearl move her head slightly so she could see her reaction.
The envelope opened with no tear in the paper so Gem placed the envelope between her thighs and grabbed just the paper inside with her hand. It was a note?
Gem looked at Pearl with a raised eyebrow, but Pearl still had most of her face turned away. What could the note possibly say? Gem slightly struggled to unfold the note one handed, but because she is so great, she got it after a second or two. Gem began to read
“Dear Lady Gemini Tay from the kingdom of Foniás,
It is with the greatest respect and a measure of trepidation that I set quill to parchment to convey a sentiment I can no longer, in good conscience, hide from you.
During the weeks in which you have been under my care, I have come to regard you with an admiration that far exceeds the bounds of propriety or mere courtesy. Your kindness, your discernment, and the quiet strength that so gently commands every room you grace. All of these have struck me in a way that brings forth affection both unexpected and profound.
I am well aware of the improperness that may attend such a declaration, and it is not my wish to burden you with unwelcome sentiment. Yet despite that, honesty compels me to speak. I have come to hold you in my heart with an affection that might be called love, if such a word may be spoken between us. I know that it is almost forbidden to declare such a thing to someone of the same sex as me.
Should this confession cause you discomfort, I beg your forgiveness and shall endeavor to preserve our acquaintance in the same spirit of esteem it has thus far enjoyed. But should there dwell within your heart any romantic interest toward my own, then know that my regard for you shall remain steadfast, governed always by honor and respect.
With the utmost sincerity and devotion,
Lady Pearl Moon
Of the kingdom of Dogwarts”
‘Woah, this was written very proper’ was Gem’s first thought as she finished reading it. Gem read it again. And again. And a fourth time just in case. Yep, still very much the same. Pearl loves her!? Now, Gem will never deny that she is rather pretty. Many of her podmates have said so time and time again. Gem knows that while she may not be as pretty as a coral reef, she definitely can make people give her a second glance.
But… she also thought that love between two humans of the same gender was forbidden. It was shameful. She's pretty sure it was ridiculed, mocked about and laughed at. But, Gem was very touched.
Truth be told, Gem also really liked Pearl. Like, really really really liked her. Like, loved her. Romantically. Gem didn't know how she was gonna stop her silly little crush, but it seems she doesn't have to!
Gem grabbed her book, and tore a page out single handedly. She still hadn’t let go of Pearl’s hand. It was a bit hard to write with her other hand not stabilizing the book but she managed. She wrote for a long while, confessing as much as her paper could let her. Then, Gem gave Pearl the paper. Pearl slowly grabbed and opened it, finally letting her face be seen by Gem.
“To the Noble Knight Pearl Moon of the Kingdom of Dogwarts,
I have read your letter, and I’ll admit, it took me quite by surprise. You, of all people, confessing such a thing? I had to read it twice just to be sure I hadn’t imagined it.
I must say, your words were beautifully written. Honestly, I’m not sure anyone’s ever spoken to me so earnestly before. It's enough to make a lady blush! You always did have a way with grace and honor, even when you think no one notices.
Now, before you start worrying, let me set your heart at ease. I’m not offended, nor am I laughing at your confession. In truth, I’m touched. Deeply so. I’ve grown rather fond of you, Pearl, your facade of calm amidst the chaotic lady you truly are, your loud and bright humor, as well as your steady kindness to the people you care for. It seems you’ve managed to sneak your way into my thoughts more often than I care to admit.
That said, you know me. In fact, out of everyone in this castle, you know me best. Perhaps that's why I fell for you as well. Let us see where the wind carries this, shall we? No need for grand declarations or drama. Just you, me, and whatever time grants us.
With lots of love,
Lady Gemini Tay
of the Kingdom of Foniás“
Honestly, Gem was a bit embarrassed by the letter. It seemed kinda cheesy but if it's for Pearl, then she doesn't mind. Not much at least. Pearl instantly reached out and pulled Gem into the warmest embrace she has ever had. Gem hugged her back, digging her face into the crook of Pearl’s neck.
They slightly pulled away from each other, just enough room to look each other in the eyes. The crickets were the only thing that intuited the otherwise quiet atmosphere surrounding them. Pearl cupped Gem’s face, hands lingering on cheeks as she spoke.
"I would like to file a request with the department of smooches, if that may be possible."
Okay, that was a little bit funny, Gem will admit. “Your request has been reviewed and thoroughly accepted.”
Pearl nudged Gem’s head closer to her with her hand. They went back to staring at each other's eyes before Pearl tilted her head and leaned in to her. Their lips met just as the moon rose above them, illuminating the garden around them.
Gem felt like her heart was beating out of her chest. Her face felt so warm, but she felt so…loved? She's not sure, but she’ll relish in the feeling.
Gem closed her eyes again. She hopes that makes it last longer.
⋆｡𖦹 °.🐚⋆❀˖°
It’s been a month. It's been 43223 ticks. Gem is so screwed. But, Gem is so happy.
Pearl was just so sweet and kind. After the initial confession, Pearl loved sending (placing at her door) her letters. They were still just as dramatic and thankfully less proper, but Gem kinda liked them so she wrote some back. Only sometimes. She can't have Pearl growing a big ego after all.
Gem also recently found out that Pearl actually does have hobbies! As much as it shouldn't have been surprising, it really was. Gem never really saw Pearl do anything other than train and patrol around the palace.
But on their first date, Pearl took Gem outside the castle walls and took her to a lantern festival to dance. Pearl had worn a white poet blouse, and black bell bottoms with a silver chain on its belt lopes. On top of it all was a red shawl that stopped near the top of her stomach.
“Its what's most common for girls to wear, pretty for spinning, but not too much for a normal dance!” Is what she had told her when Gem first saw the outfit. “I thought dresses were more common, aren't they?”
“Well, yeah, but I also just like wearing pants so girls that don't really wear dresses wear these or jazz pants.”
“Ohh.”
So Gem had also changed her outfit last second. Maybe she also wanted to match with Pearl. Or maybe she wanted to look more human. She isn't quite sure.
Gem had changed her outfit to be almost identical to Pearl. She wore a white colored high-low dress with a halter neckline, detached butterfly sleeve, and an open back. On top, she managed to get a light green shawl of her own, with little flowers and leaves embroidered into the fabric. Lastly, she wore light brown corral boots to match with Pearl’s own. They didn't look too out of place with the small branches in her shawl, so Gem kept them.
They had danced the whole night, Pearl leading the way with most dances. Gem wasn't the best at dancing, despite Gem being so great. She felt like a fish out of water (hah!) but she attempted to keep up. The dance where people had to trade partners during the dancing? She almost fell. Twice.
But it was really fun! Gem learned how to do a human traditional dance and she had fun doing it!
Unfortunately, Grian liked to ruin her life apparently. His blank black eyes bore at her with a glare, purple magic not in sight. He hated his magic, so Gem expected it.
“You have to come home Gem, the elders have been searching for you!” How Grian learned to go human in the 3-ish months (131457 ticks. Why does Gem think months first now?-) she isn't sure, but Grian has a wonderful skill called bothering Gem.
“I don’t wanna go home! I like it here, the humans are nice!” She exclaimed. She’ll feel bad at yelling and her pod later. “I’v made so many friends, why should I leave!?”
“Gem. you know why. You could die if you don't transform. Or, at least, harm your scales up to the point of no return. Humans are cruel and they hunted our kind years ago. Come home, please.” Stupid healers and their right but dumb logic.
“But Pearl-”
“Who’s Pearl, Gem?” Grian’s eyes looked kind of purple as he asked, not that Gem noticed in time.
“She’s not any of your business you jer-!”
“Rest, pause, stop, still-”
Gem stopped pacing around the beach. A haze went through her mind, numbing her senses as Grian’s red knitted sweater (Red like Pearl, she distantly thought) was fully in her vision. Arms wrapped around her mid waist, and she was picked up into a princess carry. “You know I love you, right Gem? You know why we can’t be with humans. I’m sorry”
Was Gem crazy, or was Grian crying? Actually, it might have been the magic. ‘He now decides to get over his trauma?’ she distantly thought. It might have brought out a laugh, but Gem felt too heavy.
Was he walking? She couldn’t tell. Everything felt fuzzy, like a warm bed- bedding. It was bedding, not whatever she was thinking! she's a mermaid, why is she thinking like a human? A sharp, demanding voice cut through the haze.
“Transform, turn off magic input.”
Gem could feel her scales return. Her orange scales felt almost foreign to her, feeling strange. Grian put pressure on her hand, grabbing it? Grian didn’t have the red sweater, just his familiar red scales and tail as he dragged them deeper into the water. When did they get in the water?
Gem was leaned onto one of the support beams at the bottom of the somewhat shallow port. She laid there, numb, as Grian inspected her scales and gills for damage with unnaturally bright purple eyes. She could hear muttering in her ears as Grian poked and prodded at her tail.
“Follow Guppie.”
And so she did.
⋆｡𖦹 °.🐚⋆❀˖°
Gem misses Pearl. All of her podmates clearly know with how long she stays in the nursery. She doesn't care. Okay, maybe she does care, but not right now. She was currently too busy sulking. And also being grounded, but that's besides the point.
“Gemmmm! Come outttt!”
“Go away Jimmy!” Okay, maybe she was also a little bit mad. Mostly at Grian. But still, mad. “I feel like that one story book where a mermaid was kept in a covern until a merman found her right now..”
“Gemmm!!”
“Go hang out with the older podmates!”
During the time she was gone, Jimmy had turned of age and officially was not allowed inside the nursery without permission of the eldest of the merperson that resides inside, Gem.
Also because Gem would totally find something to stab him with. Mostly because of the ‘no old people’ rule, but the thought was very much there and they both knew it. She was feeling very stabby, and Jimmy wasn't even leaving her alone to mourn her first and only relationship ever.
Gem realistically knows that Jimmy is always like this, as kind and caring as he is. As silly as he is, it was in Jimmy’s nature to help others. He was like that when they were kids, helping the elders around the medical area with bandages and retrieving the healers. Jimmy’s urge to be useful was almost as bad as Gem’s need to explore. She couldn’t find herself to get mad.
So she ignored him. Ignored everyone as she was away from her other half. It hurt, but Gem didn't know what else to do, so she lay on her bedding, away from all Prying Eyes that wished to see if she was okay. Ignored the little robots that ventured in that were technically allowed inside. Ignored the fish that swam in, trying to shove her off the bed.
She waited until she was ungrounded to even think about leaving her small safe space. She got up to do her chores and avoided her podmates like the plague (Hey, another human saying, she thought bitterly) seamlessly, with practiced ease.
“Gem, you do know that what you did was wrong, correct?” Said one of the elders. Gem nodded mutely. “Words, Gem.”
“Yes, Elder. I understand that what I did was.. wrong.”
He didn’t seem to hear the hesitation,”Very well. If you know that your wrongdoings are truly wrong, there is no point or need for further punishment. Despite this, you are still on probation. You best watch yourself, young one.”
The Elder swan off, leaving Gem alone in the nursery. She waited just in case he came back, but he didn’t. With that, Gem went off to do her chores for the day. She kept herself busy with work, Not that it stopped her podmates from bothering her, although she did try.
She was feeding the fish guppies when someone was able to finally corner her. It had been almost two weeks since her return to the undersea. 20234 ticks. Grian had somehow gotten the guppies to distract her long enough to feel bad if she left.
She sighed and turned around to face Grian. “Whada ya want.” She crossed her arms and glared at him with a very prominent frown on her face. “I just wanted to apologize for what I did.”
What? “What?” Gem felt confused.
“You know, I actually can be genuine at times, right? I mean it, I do actually want to apologize to you.”
Gem gave him a deadpan look. “You used alge to turn parts of Joel’s hair green when he told you he had a crush on Lizzie.” Grian sputtered out “Well, it worked out! He even kept the green, so I actually am pretty helpful if you think about it!”
“Yeah sure” she replies in a disbelieving tone “We’re off track. Imma get the rest of my chores done so hurry up”
“Right,” Grian starts,” I wanted to apologize for using magic on you to do something against your will. It was wrong of me to do so, but I also can’t reassure you that I will never do it again. The pod noticed you were missing, so I was sent out to look for you.”
“I’m not attempting to blame anyone other than myself for this, so I am truly sorry. I also wanted to give my condolences for your potential relationship you might have had with ‘Pearl’. I’ll understand if you don't forgive me, nor do I expect you to.”
“You won't get that forgiveness,” Gem said harshly, “I was happy up on the surface, and you took me away from there. I don't wanna talk to you right now.” She turns away, checking on guppies before leaving the reef, leaving Grian by himself with the crowd of guppies around him.
‘Jerk,’ She thought bitterly, going to her room to be alone in peace.
Like she forever would be. It's not like humans mate for life. Or live for very long.