Home / Sci-Fi / Merturned / Chapter 1: A Beautiful Morning

Share

Merturned
Merturned
Author: Lilly Rowen

Chapter 1: A Beautiful Morning

Author: Lilly Rowen
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

Chapter 1: A Beautiful Morning

   Nerissa's eyes flutter open to the soft glow of her chamber's bioluminescent lighting. The walls are adorned with delicate seashells, intricately woven together with strands of seaweed. The ceiling above her bed shows a beautiful moonhole framed in smooth pearls, the entrance to her personal Airgarden. Above her coral desk, a masterpiece of intricately crafted pearls is strung together to form an elegant chandelier that shimmers in the soft light.

   Her bed is a vision of luxury, its frame crafted from the most exquisite coral, carved into intricate designs that mimic the natural beauty of the ocean floor. The canopy above her is woven from strands of sea silk, its iridescent sheen shimmering in the light of the room.

   As she sits up, she feels the soft touch of the sheets against her skin. They are made from the finest seaweed fibers, woven together with delicate strands of seasilk. The pillows are filled with the softest down from the winged manta rays that swim the nearby waters.

   She stretches her arms, feeling the cool water surrounding her as she looks out the window, watching as schools of brightly colored fish swim past. She smiles to herself, grateful for the beauty and tranquility of her underwater world.

   Looking up, she sees her moonhole in the ceiling, but instead of being filled with water, it is filled with air. Her airgarden is a small oasis, designed to provide a space for her to take a breath of fresh air or meditate. Nerissa swims up to the entrance of her airgarden, a small opening in the ceiling of her chamber. As she surfaces, the cool and crisp airgreets her. Nerissa takes a deep breath, the scent of the ocean filling her lungs.

   The walls of the airgarden are lined with shelves of genetically modified plants, some of which are cross-bred with bioluminescent saltwater plants to produce a soft, glowing light. The plants are carefully selected for their ability to produce high levels of oxygen, creating a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere.

    As she closes her eyes, she can hear the gentle sway of the underwater plants and the sound of the water flowing around her. It is a peaceful sanctuary, and Nerissa must take the time to let her body's depleted oxygen supply be restored every morning before her day even begins. As she opens her eyes, she admires the intricate beauty of the bioluminescent plants one more time before leaving the airgarden.

   Nerissa swims through the halls of the palace, her fins propelling her gracefully through the water as she makes her way to the kitchen. She descends through the moonhole of the floor leading down to the submerged kitchen.

   As she reaches the bottom of the lower floor, a vibrant splash of color illuminates the room as the seaweed and coral adorn the walls of the kitchen that awaits her. The counters and

the shelves were made of smooth, polished shells, and the cabinets were crafted from intricate pieces of coral.

   Nerissa made her way to the pantry, where rows of jars and containers held various sea delicacies, from sea urchin to seaweed noodles. She retrieved a jar of seagrapes and a tin of caviar, the staples of her breakfast routine.

   Next, she moved to the stove, fueled by an ingenious system of underwater vents that channeled the natural warmth from an underwater geyser. The heat gently emanated from the stove, providing the necessary cooking temperature without relying on precious oxygen. She carefully ladled the caviar onto a bed of seagrapes, savoring the briny taste of the two delicacies melding together.

   As Nerissa gazed through her kitchen window, the underwater world unveiled its beauty. The surrounding depths, located 5,000 feet below the surface, were devoid of sunlight, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Instead, bioluminescent creatures adorned the surroundings, casting a soft glow in vibrant hues. Waylamps, tall columns with large cage-like globes made of coral skeletons and rock, lined the streets of Tritania, offering a warm and gentle illumination reminiscent of a starlit sky.

   After breakfast, Nerissa swam out of the palace, gliding past schools of colorful fish and ornate coral formations. The structures were adorned with preserved coral, adding a touch of natural beauty and elegance. Towering buildings crafted from iridescent shells and intricate seaweed patterns showcased the architectural ingenuity of the merfolk, paying homage to the enchanting world they called home.

   As she navigated the bustling underwater thoroughfare, Nerissa marveled at the harmonious blend of artistry and functionality in Tritania's design. The buildings stood as a testament to the merfolk's craftsmanship and their ability to create structures that seamlessly blended with the underwater environment.

   Swimming further away from the city, the sea floor gently sloped downwards, revealing a breathtaking view of the open ocean. Here, the water shimmered with bioluminescence, creating a mesmerizing display of dancing lights. The schools of fish, with their scales aglow, moved in graceful unison, their vibrant colors enhanced by the bioluminescent backdrop. Rays of soft, filtered light managed to penetrate the depths, casting an enchanting glow over the underwater landscape.

   In the distance, Nerissa could spot the Pinna nobilis farm, an expansive network of underwater caves where the precious mollusks were bred and cultivated. The farm stood as a testament to Tritania's commitment to sustainability and resource management, providing a vital source of food and materials for the merfolk.

   Taking a moment to absorb the beauty surrounding her, Nerissa feels a deep sense of gratitude for the bounties of the sea and the vibrant world that sustains her and her people. With renewed appreciation, she continues her journey, ready to face the day's adventures in the enchanting depths of Tritania.

   Before entering her family's Pinna nobilis farm, Nerissa swims through an entrance built by the merfolk, a hidden passage that leads her into the vast network of underwater caves. She marvels at the ingenuity and craftsmanship of her people, who have created this intricate system to protect and nurture the prized mollusks.

   She looks around at the rows of Pinna nobilis that her family farms, their shells shimmering in various shades. They are the leading provider of seasilk in all of Aqualearia, and their farm is a sanctuary protected from the dangers that plague coastal farms. Generations of breeding and care have resulted in healthy and robust Pinna nobilis, and the seasilk produced from them is renowned for its exceptional quality and durability.

   Approaching the first row, Nerissa begins her inspection, ensuring the well-being of the mollusks. As she focuses on her task, she senses the familiar hum of her father's expression, and she turns to see King Neptune swimming towards her.

   "Nerissa, my dear," he signs with a warm smile. "How are the Pinna nobilis looking today?"

   "Good as always, father," she signs back, returning his smile.

   He swims over and places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You know, you don't have to work so hard all the time. You're young and beautiful, and should enjoy the pleasures of life."

   Nerissa appreciates her father's concern, but she finds solace and purpose in her work. The gardens and the Pinna nobilis are a part of her identity, and their well-being is her responsibility.

   "I know, father," she signs. "But I find peace in our gardens. It's where I feel most at home."

   He nods, understanding her dedication. "Well, just remember to take breaks and embrace all that Tritania has to offer. Life is meant to be cherished."

   Nerissa signs, her gratitude evident. With renewed determination, she continues her inspection, ensuring that each Pinna nobilis receives her meticulous care.

   As the sun begins to set, Nerissa makes her way back to her family's opulent home, adorned with pearls that reflect the beauty of the sea. Her arrival is met with her mother's warm embrace, a tender gesture that always makes her feel loved.

   "Welcome home, my sweet daughter," her mother signs, holding her tightly. "Did you have a good day in the gardens?

"Yes, mother," Nerissa signs back, returning the embrace. "The Pinna nobilis are thriving."

   Her mother's smile brightens her heart. Then, her expression turns concerned. "Your sister, Madissa, arrived while you were in the gardens. She's in her chambers resting. She's been feeling ill lately, and I'm worried about her."

   Nerissa's worry deepens, her thoughts immediately focused on her sister's well-being. "I'll go see her right away, mother."

   With a determined stroke, Nerissa heads towards Madissa's chambers, ready to provide comfort and care. The underwater world holds both beauty and challenges, and the love and support of her family are the anchors that keep her strong in the face of uncertainty.

Related chapters

  • Merturned    Chapter 2 Humans

    Chapter 2 HumansAs Nerissa swims towards Madissa's chamber, a sense of unease settles within her. Something feels off, and her sister's distant and aloof behavior only heightens her concern. Is Madissa unwell? What could be troubling her? Nerissa's role as the second oldest daughter compels her to protect and care for her older sister, and she can't shake off the responsibility she feels towards Madissa.She enters the chamber and finds Madissa sitting in stillness, her gaze fixed on the walls. Worry etches itself onto Nerissa's features as she approaches. "Madissa, what's troubling you? Are you feeling alright?" she signs, her expressions reflecting genuine concern.Madissa looks up, her expression filled with a mixture of pain and vulnerability. "Nerissa, I apologize. There's something I've been keeping from both you and Selena, and I can no longer bear the weight of it," she signs, her hands gracefully forming the signs. Aquasign, their unique sign language, allows them to communic

  • Merturned    Chapter 3 Mer-kiss

    Chapter 3 Mer’kissed Nerissa watches Madissa with the limp human in her arms. She can see the desperation on her sister's face as she presses her lips to his, initiating the Mer-kiss. The transformation begins, and Nerissa can see Bryan's body twitching slightly, as if trying to fight off the change. She knows that it can be a difficult process for humans, but it is their only hope of survival. Nerissa swims closer, keeping a watchful eye on the sharks that are still circling the area. She can feel the tension in the water, the sense of danger lurking just beneath the surface. But she knows that they cannot give up. They have come too far, risked too much, to let these humans perish. As Joe was being dragged by the strong rip current, he felt his energy fading away. He had never been a good swimmer, and the ocean was quickly turning into his grave. He looked around, searching for any sign of hope, but all he saw were the waves crashing over his head and the sky far above.

  • Merturned    Chapter 4 Merfilk A Secret Kept.

    Chapter 4 Merfilk, A Secret Kept As the three mermaids entered the cavern, the mermaid they had saved followed closely behind. The atmosphere inside the cave shifts, the surroundings enveloped in an ethereal glow emanating from bioluminescent algae that cling to the walls. The cavern reveals itself gradually, a hidden sanctuary in the depths of the ocean. Submerged in water, much of the cavern is an underwater realm, where colorful marine life dances and coral formations reach towards the unseen sunlight. The gentle sway of seaweed and the soft murmur of the currents add to the enchanting ambiance. However, towards the back of the cavern, a large air pocket emerges, providing a haven where air mingles with the scent of salt and dampness. Above the waterline, a sizable rock ledge juts out, providing a safe perch for the two unconscious human men. Nerissa and Madissa carefully position the men on the ledge, their bodies resting against the solid surface, offering a temporary respite,

  • Merturned    Chapter 5 Transformation

    Chapter 5 TransformationMadissa swims to the ledge and cautiously lifts the edge of the cloak, revealing that the man's pants obscure much of the ongoing transformation. While his torso remains unchanged, his legs appear slightly smaller, indicating a gradual change. Relieved that he has stopped bleeding, she gently covers him again with the cloak. Turning to her sister, she conveys her findings with a mix of relief and lingering worry."They are changing, but it happens slowly. This one still has legs," Madissa signs, her facial expression reflecting a blend of relief and concern.Curiosity piqued, Madissa lifts herself up on the ledge and leans forward, pressing her ear against the chest of the man she had rescued. After a brief moment, she returns to the water, her body buoyant, and shares her observation with Nerissa."He is still alive. Check his heart. The transformation might stop if they die," Madissa signs, emphasizing the importance of monitoring their vital signs.Nerissa

  • Merturned    Chapter 6 Introductions

    Chapter 6 IntroductionsNerissa gracefully makes circular motions with her hand, inviting the new mermen to join them in the water. She creates small splashes by gently tapping the surface, hoping to convey the message of invitation. Aware of their unfamiliarity with Aquasign, she observes as the two mermen exchange glances, hesitating before sliding off the ledge and using their hands for support. In the water, they begin testing the maneuverability of their tails, exploring different movements and occasionally emitting unfamiliar sounds. Nerissa and the others watch, unable to understand their communication but recognizing their intent as they practice. Turning to Madissa, Nerissa uses Aquasign to ask, "Do we have any food left? I remember bringing extra jars of fish eggs and seagrapes." Madissa nods in response, deliberately making her way to the basket of food to ensure they have sustenance for their underwater journey.Madissa retrieves a large flat seashell and two containers mad

  • Merturned    Chapter 7 Aquasign

    Chapter 7 AquasignThe mermaids turn their attention back to the food, passing the basket around and taking turns choosing their favorites. They chat amicably with each other. He notices that Nerissa's fingers are slender and agile, and she seems to be communicating a message with each gesture.Bryan looks at the basket of food that Nerissa is passing around, and though he can't understand what she is saying in Aquasign, he is able to identify some of the edibles from his training as a marine biologist.Joe watches Nerissa's graceful gestures with awe and wonder. He has never seen anything like it before and is entranced by her movements. He doesn't understand what she is saying, but he knows that she has saved his life and is grateful for her kindness.Nerissa watches as they eat, relieved that they seem to be okay. She knows that they will need to be careful, but for now, she is just happy that they are all safe.As the new mermen finish eating from their shared plate, Bryan looks to

  • Merturned    Chapter 8 A Brother’s Loyalty

    Chapter 7 A Brother’s loyaltyMadissa calls upon Triton for assistance in retrieving the air bladder. As Triton approaches, he overhears their conversation, causing his heart to race with concern. He scans the cave, finding no other presence besides their group. His attention then turns to the air bladder, prompting him to question its contents."Who's inside?" Triton demands, pointing at the air bladder.Nerissa and Madissa exchange nervous glances, and Nerissa steps forward, imploring Triton for his discretion. "Please, Triton, we need your help. You can't reveal this to anyone."Triton furrows his brow, seeking an explanation. "What's going on? Who is hiding in the air bladder?"Madissa speaks up, revealing their act of rescuing two drowning humans who can't breathe underwater. She explains that they have brought them here to provide them with air, and now the humans are concealed within the air bladder.Triton is taken aback. "Humans? In the water? Are you out of your minds?""We h

  • Merturned    Chapter 9 Merfolk Lessons

    Chapter 9 Merfolk LessonsAs the days went by, Bryan and Joe's grasp of Aquasign continued to improve, albeit slowly. In the first week, they learned the most basic words and phrases, such as "hello," "thank you," and "goodbye." They also began to pick up on the nuances of Aquasign's complex aquasign language, which relied heavily on subtle movements and gestures.During the second week, Nerissa and Madissa continued to teach them new words and phrases, and the two men began to gain a deeper understanding of Aquasign's grammar and syntax. They learned how to form simple sentences and expressed their thoughts and emotions more clearly.As the third week began, Madissa started teaching Bryan and Joe about the merfolk's manners and customs. They learned about the importance of respecting personal space and how to properly address someone of higher rank. They practiced their aquasign language and learned new vocabulary related to etiquette and social interactions. Bryan and Joe were gratef

Latest chapter

  • Merturned    Chapter 114 More Secrets.

    Chapter 114 More Secrets.It dawned on her that they might not fully understand the significance of the special dish she had prepared for them earlier. In her culture, this dish was traditionally made for groom-pair to eat at the wedding feast. By accepting and eating the dish, the groom-pair would be acknowledging the bride as their mate. In a legal sense, they were already mated temporarily for a year, during which the pod would determine if they were a good fit. They had the option to recommit permanently at the end of the year, or if a child was born or conceived during that time, the mating would become legally binding when the child was born.However, given their short time together, Aziza wasn't sure if Trent and Hunter, her bonded mermen, would still feel the same about her later. She knew they were both honorable and would take care of her if a child was born, but she didn't want them to feel obligated. So she thought perhaps it best if they used

  • Merturned    Chapter 113 Last Night In Luxury

    Chapter 113 Last Night In LuxuryWith the old weight unhooked and pushed aside, Trent grasped the metal cords anchoring the air bladder to the weight and began to lift. The two counterweights were supposed to balance each other, ensuring buoyancy while underwater. However, it seemed a little heavy, and he planned to discuss this with Tritan later to get his input on the matter. Despite that, Trent knew his work was done for now."Good! Because I saved you dinner. Everyone else already ate, and I told them you were busy," Hunter informed Trent through their bondlink. "Aziza and I are waiting for you."As he prepared to head back, Hunter's message reached him through their bondlink. Trent smiled at the thoughtfulness of his bondmate and thanked him. Feeling a renewed eagerness, he swiftly swam back to The Serpent's Blood inn, where Aziza awaited them.Trent's heart warmed at the gesture and the camaraderie he shared with his companion

  • Merturned    Chapter 112 Air, A Commodity

    Chapter 112 Air, A Commodity Later, Trent finds himself entering the black market alone, heading towards the specific shop where they inquired about a restricted item the previous day. The merchant, known for dealing in new Atlantian military-restricted items, had mentioned that he had what they were looking for, but it wasn't kept in the shop. Trent navigates the hidden and unsavory place, a black market that can provide anything you need, even if it's hard to find elsewhere. However, what sets this black market apart from others and puts Trent at ease is the absence of one despicable thing he couldn't stand witnessing – slavery. There's no hint of such terrible activity here, which allows Trent to focus on his mission without worry.As Trent reaches the end of the hallway, he turns left into the shop he seeks. Inside, the shelves are filled with crates containing various weapons, including lazerarms, light spears, crystal induction daggers, and other items restr

  • Merturned    Chapter 111 Last Day To Relax

    Chapter 111 Last Day To RelaxAs the bright white waylights illuminated the underwater city of Watch Point, the group gathered at the little eatery near the statue. Markous and Lucious hovered in the line to get food, while Marine kept the table clear, waiting for the rest of the group. Soon, the whole group arrived, and they all sat at the table to eat. Tritan briefly explained that they would be leaving the morning after next, having to wait one more day for the custom sword to be made.After enjoying their meal and engaging in pleasant conversation, Bryan leaned forward and addressed the group, "I've already found the perfect place to get the rest of our provisions. There's a reputable merchant named Fintar, not far from here, who specializes in supplying adventurers like us with high-quality gear and tools for underwater journeys."The group's eyes lit up with interest, and Joe nodded in approval. "That sounds great, Bryan. Lead the way, and we'll follow you to Fintar's shop," he

  • Merturned    Chapter 110 The Forge

    Chapter 110 The ForgeAs Tritan, Finrir, and Naida approached the end of the alley, they were met with a sight that captured their attention—a large shop with no front wall, only a bar-like counter stretching from one end to the other, leaving the interior visible and open. Beyond the counter lay a bustling work area where four skilled mermen were diligently crafting their creations around a central wall. The wall, not perfectly round but built around a natural formation, exuded an aura of rugged elegance. It extended around the back like an irregular well, with the mermen moving gracefully amidst their craft, adding an artistic touch to the workshop's ambiance.Two windows were meticulously cut into the wall, and each window's sill extended out a foot, supported by a large anvil stone. This unique design left a square foot area with high sides around each window, which then rose and joined in an arch at the top, forming a tunnel-like extension that stretched out a foot, also supporte

  • Merturned    Chapter 109 The Arms Ally

    Chapter 109 The Arms Alley Finrir swims around the circular market, his eyes carefully scanning each alley until they finally lock onto something of interest down the alley directly behind a grand statue standing tall in the center of the market. Eager to share his discovery, he swiftly swims back to Tritan and signs, "I found it, it's this way."Tritan can't help but grin playfully, his curiosity piqued by Finrir's excitement. Naida's eyes also light up with anticipation as they both join in the chase, following Finrir through the bustling market. With each stroke, they navigate the narrow alleyways, passing by various stalls offering an array of goods, ranging from colorful trinkets to delectable underwater delicacies.Finrir leads them down the alley, never pausing for a moment, while Tritan and Naida eagerly keep up the pace. They pass a series of weapon shops along the way, each displaying the usual assortment of tridents, spears, harpoons, and sleek metal armor. Tritan briefly

  • Merturned    Chapter 108 The Black Market

    Chapter 108 The Black MarketElsewhere in the market, Trent and Hunter, the latter still with one eye bandaged from his recent injury, stealthily navigate a dark and secluded alley. The row of stalls and shops surrounding them appear closed or abandoned, concealing the pathway leading to their destination. Trent's senses are heightened, and he can't help but feel the weight of anticipation in the air. His parents' unscrupulous teachings have honed his ability to locate the secretive black markets hidden in the most obscure corners of any realm.As they venture further into the dimly lit alley, Trent and Hunter rely on instinct, guided by Trent's uncanny knowledge of finding these covert hubs. The absence of illumination, the hushed silence, and the shadows looming around them all add to the enigmatic allure of this clandestine place. Trent remains vigilant, feeling the gaze of unseen eyes upon him, but he remains composed, knowing that the right sigil can lead them

  • Merturned    Chapter 107 The Sonoclam

    Chapter 107 The SonoclamSwimming up to Nerissa, he peered over her shoulder as the merchant signed to her. She held a delicate metal clam in her hand, and Joe could see a crystal bead inside, nestled like a pearl in a real clam. To his surprise, as Nerissa opened the clamshell, he noticed an intricate holographic screen inside the top shell. She deftly interacted with the holographic display, leaving Joe in awe. He had no idea that merfolk possessed such advanced technology.The presence of the honeycomb-shaped piece and the tiny node on the other wall now made sense. Just above the holographic screen, near the top of the clamshell, there was a honeycomb piece similar to the ones he had seen earlier. A matching smaller piece, fitting into the center of the honeycomb, was attached to the bottom shell. The arrangement resembled a flip-phone, with the two glass-coated metal pieces functioning as a speaker and microphone.As Joe scrutinized the device, he cou

  • Merturned    Chapter 106 Watch Point’s Market.

    Chapter 106 Watch Point’s Market.The next morning, as the first rays of dawn gently touched Aqualeara, the group emerged from their rooms, feeling refreshed and ready for a new day of exploration. Aziza sat gracefully at the bar, her tail swaying softly as she engrossed herself in a captivating book, waiting patiently for her companions to join her. The inn's airgarden provided a tranquil start to their morning, allowing them a few peaceful moments to collect their thoughts before they embarked on their adventure.With their spirits lifted and stomachs content from a hearty breakfast, they set off for the market, the heart of Watch Point. As they approached, the sight that unfolded before them was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The enormous statue of the Guardian of Virtue stood majestically at the center, a testament to the village's values and beliefs. The smaller-than-life-size sea serpent coiled gracefully in a magnificent mound, its head rising up in a protective stance, and it

DMCA.com Protection Status