Chapter 94 Embrace
As the soft light of the waystick gradually brightened, Bryan's consciousness returned, and memories of the previous day flooded his mind like vivid splashes of color. The chaos, the danger, and the moments of fear all played before him like an intricate dance of emotions. He vividly remembered being faced with the prospect of nearly losing Madissa, the thought of being without her causing an ache deep within his chest. The same feeling of desperation surged within him when he thought about Joe, his beloved bondmate, and Nerissa, their other mate. As his heart swelled with relief, Bryan couldn't help but wonder when he had started thinking of them as their mates, embracing this profound connection that went beyond mere bonds.With his thoughts swirling, Bryan's eyes slowly opened, adjusting to the dimly lit shelter. The soft magenta-pink glow of the waystick painted the surroundings with a warm hue, and he glanced around. The shelter waChapter 95 Embracing Merfolk CultureNerissa's initial reaction was one of surprise and uncertainty. Growing up in a culture where having two mates was customary and sharing mates between bondmates was the norm, she had always expected to have two partners. However, Joe had made it clear that they would not be following that tradition. He had chosen her to be his mate, while Madissa was to be Bryan's, and both Nerissa and Madissa had accepted this arrangement.In that moment of uncertainty, Joe's reassuring touch found hers in the darkness, and she felt a sense of comfort and security flood through her. His touch conveyed his love and understanding, and Nerissa knew that he respected her feelings and desires. The shiver of excitement that washed over her was a mixture of relief and anticipation, knowing that they were about to explore new depths of intimacy together, bound by love and trust. As their bodies intertwined in the darkness,
Chapter 96 Away The CarriageAs Naida watched the terrifying sight of the guardian of retribution coiling around her mates, fear clenched at her heart, and she felt torn between her own safety and the well-being of Trent and Hunter. Marine, sensing her distress, clicked urgently, drawing her attention away from the distance behind them. "We must stay focused on Hunter," Marine signed with urgency. "He needs our help right now, and Trent is here with us. We'll do everything we can to ensure he gets the medical attention he needs."Naida nodded, her worry evident in her facial expression as she looked out the carriage window. "You're right," she signed back, her hands moving with a mix of frustration and concern. "Hunter is injured, and we need to make sure he receives the medical attention he needs. But what about Finrir and Tritan? They stayed behind to face the guardian for us, and I can't bear the thought of leaving them behind."Marine's expression softened with empathy as she sign
Chapter 97 UrgencyAs soon as Lucious entered the shelter with the airbladder, Trent approached and took it from him. He gently carried Hunter, their injured friend, into the airbladder, allowing him to breathe more easily. After about 15 breaths, he brought them both down, allowing Naida and Marine, the two mermaids, to take their turn in the airbladder. Lucious went last, knowing that his strength and resilience could endure the challenges that lie ahead.As Lucious emerged from the airbladder, Trent communicated with him using signs. "You should sleep. I can't. I'll keep watch so everyone can get some rest, and I won't leave Hunter in the carriage to drive. As soon as Markous catches up with us, we should head out." Trent's reluctance was evident, but Lucious understood that he had an idea of where they should go. He must have some knowledge of a place that could help Hunter.In response, Lucious signed back, "Do you know where we could get help for Hunter?" Trent nodded quickly, a
Dear Loyal Readers,I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the journey through "Merturned" with our beloved characters. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your continuous support and enthusiasm for the story.However, I must inform you that starting August 1st, I will be adjusting my update schedule due to certain strains on my family life. While I cherish writing and sharing this tale with you all, my priority lies with my loved ones, and I need to dedicate more time to support and care for them.Please understand that I am not abandoning "Merturned" or its characters. I promise to continue the story and share the adventures of our favorite merfolk. However, I will be slowing down the updates to concentrate on my home life. I commit to posting at least three chapters a week, and I'll do my best to provide more whenever possible.Your understanding and patience during this time are deeply appreciated. Your support has been the driving force behind
Chapter 98 Sea Serpent HandlerTrent administers the antivenom, carefully injecting the medicinal contents into his bondmate's body. Naida, Marine, and Lucious hover around the carriage, their eyes fixed on Hunter, waiting anxiously to see what happens next. Trent gently lifts Hunter slightly, positioning him so that his face rests in the small air bubble inside the top of the carriage. It's stale air, but this way, if Hunter gasps when the antivenom wakes him up, he won't risk drowning.Hunter takes a deep breath, and Trent observes, his heart racing, as his bondmate's breathing stabilizes into a steady rhythm. Trent waits until Hunter's breathing stops in a long hold, signifying he is resting properly, before gently settling him back on the seat. Then he backs out of the carriage pushing off the seat.Trent turns around to see the tower, hovering just behind the young merlad, is a massive merman. His presence commands attention, and his sh
Chapter 99 A Pretty NurseWhen they reach the top of the tower, Lucious sees Markous's tail swaying in the water, his head and shoulders in the airgarden on the top floor. Lucious waits, and Markous comes back down. Lucious hugs his brother and bondmate, Markous, embracing him tightly for a long moment. He was so worried about Markous.As they pull apart, Lucious becomes aware of the time. The tower is well-lit with waystick scones along the walls, but the light is nearly gone, the color of the light a deep sea green matching the water around them. Markous signs, "I'm glad you got Hunter the help he needed, and I made it here just fine. But now we have to go get our other companions, our adopted brothers and their mates... our prince and his bondmate."Lucious gives his brother a wry smile, "There is no point now. There isn't enough light to signal. They would have found a place to camp. You said that they are together, right? They should have enough betwe
Chapter 100 The Handler’s DaughterThe next morning, Trent was awakened by the sound of the cell door opening, but this time, he shot out of bed for a different reason. The soft, purple glow of bioluminescent organisms in the room indicated that it was still early, around 4 am in the underwater world of Aqualeara. He was hoping for another chance to get to know the Serpent Handler's daughter, a very special mermaid. To his surprise, she wasn't alone this time; an older nurse came in with her. The nurse had deep purple hair and tail, and they both went over to tend to Hunter, sitting him up gently. Hunter's eyes were bandaged, but even without sight, he seemed to sense the special mermaid's presence. A dreamy expression crossed his face as he turned in her direction, his heart connecting with her in their silent underwater world. Trent grinned; it seemed that his bondmate had taken a liking to the mermaid, and he hoped that the feeling was mutual.
Chapter 101 Off To Look For ThemMarkous woke up early, his mind set on finding their missing companions. He carefully repacked his bag, double-checking that he had everything they might need for the journey ahead. As he selected his provisions, his mind wandered to the friends they had lost contact with, the unshakable feeling that they needed to be reunited, and the determination to ensure their safety.Lucious observed Markous's preparations, understanding his bondmate's intentions without the need for words. He admired Markous's unwavering loyalty to their group and how he took charge when they faced challenges. Lucious knew that with the Handler's daughter, Aziza, and her guidance, Markous had gained a renewed sense of hope, believing that they could find their missing friends.As Markous approached Handler Retribution's office, he carried a mixture of excitement and concern. He hoped the legendary Handler might have some insights or in
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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