Life Above and Under Sea

by orphan_account

Summary:

Basically just inserting my oc who I made as close to my actual appearance and such into this mermaid world because all I do is daydream and have crazy ideas.

Dear readers,

I'm resuming writing this book! Sorry for the long MIA stuff.

Chapter 1: Character Information

Full name: Cordelia Santos

Family: Meredith (deceased/mother) Rita Santos (alive/aunt)

Age: 17 (current)

Employment: Ocean Cafe (current)

Affiliations: Mako pod (formerly)

Friends: Zac, Cam, David, Carly, Sirena, Ondina, Mimmi, & Evie (future: Chris, Weilan, & Karl)

Ethnicity: Asian

Birthday: May 2nd

Hair color: Dark brown/black

Eye color: Grey/pale blue

Height: 5'6 1/2

Likes: History, swimming, the sea, her friends, Poseidon, seashells, gossiping with dolphins, and LOTS of seafood

Dislikes: Insects, algebra, homework, keeping secrets, being given an ultimatum  

Magical abilities: Electrokinesis, siren singing, Aerokinesis, Invisibility/invisibility detection, Telekinesis, Volume Reduction, Limited transformation, Atmokinesis, Hydro-Thermokinesis, & Hydro-Cryokinesis 

Other languages: Dolphin

Love interest: Karl

THIS TAKES PLACE DURING SEASON FOUR :)))

Chapter 2: Prologue

Summary:

A glimpse into Cordelia's past.

"Aunt Rita where are we going?" younger Cordelia asked. 

The woman, Rita, looked at the young girl with sad eyes, trying to figure out how to explain that they'll be going to a completely different world than the one the girl knows and loves. The woman took in a shakey deep breath mentally preparing for what she was about to do next, "We're going to where the land people go, Cordelia. We're going to land. I've promised your mother that I'd take good care of you if anything were to happen to her." 

Cordelia's world shattered into pieces. She'd be leaving the pod and her home behind while she goes to land. She knew that if she were to go to land, the council wouldn't let her join the pod ever again. She'd be shunned away like how they shunned Rita, her biological aunt, and now her guardian.

"Rita, you can't possibly take care of a child! It hasn't been at least a decade yet of you living on land! How can you take care of a child when struggling to conceal a mermaid's deepest and darkest secret!? It's ridiculous, Cordelia is not going with you!" The head of the mermaid council, Veridia exclaimed in fury. Rumor has it that Veridia and Rita were once friends when they were hatchings and when Rita was still a part of the pod. 

Everyone looked at me. Veridia spoke up, "Cordelia, it is ultimately your decision but I strongly advise you to not go with that traitor and stay with the pod." Veridia's tone was gentle but strong and serious. I knew the choice I had to make was difficult but it was one that needed to be made. 

Tears started to form and my vision became blurred by the tears. All of a sudden it felt so cold as I shivered as I contemplated what to decide. I look up to Veridia and then to Rita. They were both calm and cooled and were patiently awaiting my answer along with the mermaid council. I swallow the built-up saliva that was stuck in my throat and open my already slightly parted lips, "I've decided to go with Rita. I'm sorry Veridia." My voice was full of remorse and all the guilt in the world that a six-year-old can carry. 

The entire mermaid council looked disappointed and held looks of disbelief, especially Veridia. I suppose it's because my mother, Veridia, and Rita were a close-knit trio of mermaids when they were younger, according to the stories. My mother was a powerful mermaid who went to defend the Eastern pod from an enemy named, Aurora. My mother is from the Northern pod but has family links to the Eastern pod as well. "You do know, that once you leave, you can never return." Veridia's voice wavered with each word. I mustered up all the courage I had and gave a tiny smile, "I know, but I'll always be drawn to the ocean and will forever love the pod and the island." 

Veridia nodded and with a long sigh said, "Goodbye Cordelia." 

"Goodbye Veridia." was the last thing I said as I swam to where Rita was waiting for me. I looked back and saw the mermaid council members head dive underwater never to be seen again with regret. "Come now Cordelia, let's go." Rita softly said. My lips quivered as I continued to stare at the spot where the mermaid council was. The crescent moon shuns brightly above us and the island. I'm going to miss the island. With regret and reluctance, I peel my eyes away and follow Rita to her land home. A new life awaits.

 

Chapter 3

It was late afternoon and I was at the ocean Cafe working. I was behind the register already talking with another customer when David walks past asking, "Would you mind covering the rest of Carly's shift? Carly's granny is sick and you know how her granny can be." he finished with a chuckle. I also laughed knowing how nagging her granny can be. I give the customer their change and turn around to face David, "I wouldn't mind covering for her, you've already got your hands full with deliveries." "Thank you, Cordelia, I owe you one," David said with a breath of relief. I smile and nod as I fish out my notepad and pen from my apron pocket and start going to each table to write down orders. When I come across Mimmi sitting with her crush, Chris, at one of the tables. I smiled devilishly and walk up to their table ready to embarrass Mimmi, "Hey Mimmi! So this is the guy you always talk about? He fits your description very well," I teased innocently. Chris chuckled while Mimmi started sputtering broken words with her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "You talk about me Mimmi?", Chris questioned with a light blush. My excitement grew on the inside hidden behind an innocent and cheerful mask. “Well, I’ll take a kiwi smoothie with a veggie burger, please? Mimmi what about you?” Chris asked as he turned to said girl. “Oh- I’ll have a strawberry and banana smoothie and a prawn salad with extra prawns,” Mimmi managed to say without any stuttering or sputtering. I smiled and hastily wrote down their orders, “Alright! We’ll get those to you soon!” I said in my friendly customer voice. As I walked back behind the counter to punch in the orders in the register, I noticed a man similar in age walk up and take a seat at Mimmi and Chris’s table. It was most likely that he worked with the pair since he wore the same marine park uniform as the two other table occupants. My nose scrunched at the urge to ditch work and take a nice, relaxing swim in the ocean. David noticing asked, “You alright?” with a worried expression that matched his voice. I weakly smiled, “I’m alright just itching for a swim,” I said with saddened eyes. I love the sea as a second home no doubt, it grew as the years flew by the more time I spent on land. I haven’t dipped my tail in the sea up until recently when mermaids showed up on our doorsteps. David flashed me a sympathetic look before scurrying off to deliver a delivery for Mr. McLarren, Evie’s father.

I sighed as I put together Mimmi’s prawn salad and Chris's veggie burger as I wait for another worker to make their smoothies. Just as I finished the veggie burger a co-worker of mine placed the two smoothies on the counter beside me with a short, “Here ya go,” before tending to other orders. It wasn’t uncommon for the cafe to be swamped but today was busier than it has been in a while. I worried that everyone on staff would be overworked and tire themselves out. I knew it was a part of having a job but I worry. I sighed once more and gathered the order onto a tray and carried it carefully with my right hand underneath the tray and my left hand supporting holding onto the edge of the tray. As I came up to their table I brightly smiled as I place their orders in front of them on the table. I tucked the tray between my arm and waist so it was secured. I turned to the stranger who came to sit with the pair who was happily eating their meals and chatting away about dolphins, “Would you like to order anything?”. The man shook his head no thanking me for asking, although it was just the polite thing to do. I nod with an understanding smile and turn on my heels back to the counter where I helped my co-workers with orders. The man seemed average, with average brown eyes with average blonde hair. Everything about him screamed average, though, like Rita has told me many times, don’t judge a fish by its scales. Though I’m not sure how normal people said it.

As the day passed, the sky was colored with beautiful rays of orange and purple, and the crowd that once buzzed the cafe had now thinned out to no one besides a few workers. I yawned and rubbed my eyes looking at the clock that hung on the wall behind me, “I best be going now,” I muttered to myself. I yawned once more and bent down opening a cabinet where David allowed workers to store their personal items. I eagerly grabbed my bag and hurriedly shut the cabinet door. I bid goodbyes to my co-workers and clock out happily walking out of the cafe. Once I was outside the cool and crisp air engulfed me. I breathed in the cool air and smiled finally happy to hear the sounds of the sea without the chatter of customers. Although, it was nice to eavesdrop on the latest gossip. I chuckled as I walk along the bridge that connected the cafe to the main streets, fondly looking out at the small waves that easily dissolved. I figured that the girls except for Weilan will be sleeping at Mako Island in the moonpool. I fish out my phone which had my earbuds loosely wrapped around it. I unwrapped the earbuds and inserted each earbud into my ears as I stop at a crosswalk waiting for the scarlet red light turn into a bright neon green. I glanced at the wristwatch that comfortably sat on my left wrist that read, 8:30. I’m glad that it wasn’t past nine yet meaning I still had time to cram in some homework before falling asleep.

Fifteen minutes later I arrived home. I tiredly walk up flights of steps and kept walking down the hall before stopping in front of my door that was on the right next to the small library we had. I open my door and let my bag drop from my shoulder and kicked off my shoes not caring where they landed at immediately headed straight for the bathroom. I brush my teeth carefully to not let any water touch my skin and untie the rubberband that kept my hair braided throughout my day, which made it easier to maintain. I turn off the light switch as I start untangling my hair and comb it with my fingers gently so as to not pull any strands of hair out. Once I finished I walked to my closet that stood on the opposite side of the room and grabbed a random shirt and shorts and switched them out with my capris and shirt. With a final yawn, I throw my clothes into the laundry basket that stayed in my closet and left the closet door halfway open, and wrap myself with my comforter drifting off into a dreamless sleep.

The next morning I awoke to the sound of my bedroom door squeaking. The door usually made a sound whenever the door is being opened or closed. Even if you close it fast it still squeaks. Rita's guilty frown as she knew she had woken me up, "I apologize Cordelia, but I just wanted to let you know that I'll be at the school for a meeting," she said as she gingerly placed a kiss on my forehead. I nodded understandingly not caring if she saw me or not. She was, after all, the school's principal. I softly said to have a good day at her meeting to which I received a snort coming from Rita. It's understandable, Rita never liked Sunday meetings as she openly expressed every night after the meetings droning on about Sunday meetings were stupid and unnecessary. I chuckled and watched as Rita scurried out of my room quickly closing the door behind her so she doesn't run late. I sighed happily to finally go back to sleep. Before it was abruptly interrupted by Weilan who burst into my room. I groaned and sat up irritably and looked at Weilan with narrowed eyes, "What is it Weilan?" I asked my voice laced with a threatening tone. Weilan taken aback said, "Well, I just came up here to ask if you could help me with my Biology assignment," "And why would I do that I snapped back. "because Rita said you're the best when it came to Biology," Weilan said. My irritated body wavered at the mention of Rita. I sighed and ran a hand through my hair, "Alright I'll help you but only because Rita asked me to," I said before being interrupted by Weilan's small victory dance, "but get out so I can get ready," I continued on the irritation fully noticeable. Weilan nodded with grateful eyes and closed the door cheerfully. I groaned again and huffed not liking how her Sunday was going so far. I groggily got out of bed and made my way to the bathroom to do my business and headed to my closet afterward to pick out an outfit. I pulled together an outfit consisting of a white buttoned-up dress shirt with dark blue denim shorts and a yellow headband. Satisfied with my work I looked into my body mirror that hung on my closet door. I nod approvingly and slip on the shoes I had kicked off the night before and made my way to the grotto knowing that was where Weilan was staying for the time being.

My body froze as I look at the grotto in horror seeing clothes scattered everywhere and the smell of noodles wafted through the air. The grotto had been completely turned upside down. Weilan noticed me and waved me down, I walked down the stairs still baffled as I looked at the mess that surrounded me. Weilan was sitting at the coffee table that sat in the middle of a circle the seats adorned with throw pillows and cushions. I looked at her bewildered how she didn't even acknowledge the mess she had managed to create under the 36 hours she had stayed here so far. The rest of the afternoon was spent in the grotto helping Weilan understand the concept behind genes along with how to transcript and translate using the codon charts that were given last week. It was quite easy to understand so I didn't know how she couldn't have but remembered it's probably because she wasn't being taught this yet in Shanghai. I did my best to be patient with the girl and thankfully it wasn't futile since Weilan eventually understood it giving me time to break free and take a swim. I haven't swam in a while and it felt good to be out and about not worrying about life above sea and whatnot. Out here, you were free.

 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fpin%2F509399407830585039%2F&psig=AOvVaw1MSqM_pnWeF-EavFW5yplC&ust=1651021196211000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAwQjRxqFwoTCPC-kbbDsPcCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD 

 

Short chappie I suppose but it'll do for now, Happy (late) Easter! :)))

Chapter 4: The Will of the Dragon

Today was the day of the full moon. Between the weeks since the last full moon, the pod and the girls were anxious but determined to fight against the dragon that destroyed the entire Eastern pod. I was filled with anxiety trying to distract my mind from the thought of losing my tail to the dragon with loads of homework and essays, but no matter how much homework I drowned myself in, my thoughts always came back to that terrifying thought of losing my tail and powers forever. Weilan had warned us and the pod not to use our moon rings against the dragon and that it was futile but nobody listened. 

However, they forget that Weilan lost her pod to the dragon. So, there is no doubt that the pods' plan will fail. After grilling Weilan about her disappearance a few days ago she caved in and told me she had been teaching Zac an Eastern mermaid defense technique that turned the magic back on the sender. Weilan called it "Turn the tides". Veridia had paid us a visit later that afternoon to give Mimmi and Ondina their orders to watch over the hatchlings. I knew, judging from their expressions, that they were offended that Veridia had given them a job as 'low' as that and thought they should be out in the sea fighting against the dragon. Newsflash, every mermaid thinks that and you shouldn't go about defying Veridia's orders. They've done plenty to get their banishment lifted but they're easily going to get banished again if they keep defying her orders. 

I sighed to myself and kept those thoughts to myself. I'd never dare tell them those cruel thoughts. My train of thought was interrupted by my phone making a ding sound telling me that someone texted me. I silently thank the heavens for this distraction and grab my phone to see who texted me. It was from an unknown number which wasn't all that weird since I did receive several spam calls earlier today, however, another message notification popped up on my lock screen saying:

'Hey Cor! Wanna hang out today at the beach?'

I felt a grin tug on the corners of my lips as I held onto the notification eagerly typing to not make him wait and reply. 

‘I’d love to! How does 4 pm sound ?’

Throughout the past few weeks, Karl and I have been hanging out with each other whether it was at the cafe or at the marine park, and even had a few study sessions. I cherished each time I spent with the people around me because we all knew the stakes of facing the dragon. We only won't lose our tails and powers forever, but we’ll also lose a part of ourselves. 

I shoved my phone into my back pocket and started going out of the grotto before I was stopped by Veridia calling my name. I froze and turned around expecting to be told to stay on land with Evie but I was wrong, “I’d like you to come with us to fight off the dragon,” Veridia asked me with a kind smile. “No thanks. I prefer land,” I flat-out said. Veridia’s smile faltered for a split second but was quickly reset. I cleared my throat and smiled, “Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I better go and stay on land tonight, you guys come back safe,” I said before turning around and meeting up with Karl. I suppose Veridia didn’t deserve that but it’s not like I can be invited back to do one thing only for it to backfire and result in us all losing our tails. Call it selfish or not, I’m not going into war with the dragon. Before going to the beach, I decided to change my clothes in case it becomes a bit more chilly. I ran upstairs and into my bedroom to quickly find a sweater I could wear. I decided to go with a dark blue cotton crewneck sweater that went well with my cream shorts. 

I arrived at the beach at Karl’s and my favorite spot and immediately spotted his blonde mop of hair since our spot was secluded. I quietly sneaked up behind him and crept up and covered his eyes with my hands trying to suppress my laughter. “Guess who?” I sang in a sing-along voice with a hint of teasing in my voice. Karl chuckled at my antics. My smile widened hearing him laugh. Karl pretended to fake thinking, rubbing his chin with his left hand and making mimicking thinking sounds, “I don’t know… could it be my dear friend or an imposter?” Karl teased. I laughed as I uncovered his eyes and sat down beside him to watch the sunset. “How’d you know?” with feigned disbelief. We stared at each other in silence for a brief moment before bursting into fits of giggles.

We talked for hours and still talked even after the sun had completely hidden and the moon rose. I became more fidgety after the moon rose and I guess Karl caught on because he asked me, “What got you so nervous Cordelia?” My breath hitched and my body froze. My palms became sweaty and my mind raced. I couldn’t even hear Karl calling my name until he shook me by my shoulders. I look up into Karl’s chocolate brown eyes with glossy eyes, “Breath with me Cor, c’mon,” he softly said with a smile filled with warmth. I slowly nod my head to let him know that I can hear him and that I’m listening. I was filled with embarrassment, warmth, and nervousness. Embarrassed because I let Karl see me like this, Warmth because he’s been so kind to me, and nervous for the pod and Zac. I knew Weilan and Zac were cooking up something fishy when I got Weilan to admit she was teaching Zac Eastern magic. All I could do was put faith in Zac that he knew what he was doing and that he survives. 

My breathing evened and my mind stopped racing with ridiculous thoughts and the sweating in my palms stopped. I looked back down to the sand beneath us refusing to look Karl in the eyes again, feeling the embarrassment hit me like a tidal wave. I felt Karl’s hands cupping the sides of my cheeks and raising my head so that I wouldn’t look into the sand. Heat crawled up to my cheeks and my heart began racing. This feeling of warmth spread throughout my body and a giddy feeling arose in my abdomen. Is this what Rita called love? His chocolate brown eyes met my pale blue eyes. I felt like I was in a trance the moment my eyes met his. My entire body felt weak with just one glance and his goofy smile was utterly enchanting. Our bodies leaned closer and closer until our lips were centimeters apart. Our lips were about to meet when we heard my phone go off. We jerked back and Karl let his hand fall to my lap while I grabbed my phone from my back pocket. I read the message Rita sent me and my eyes went wide. “Oh no…” I muttered underneath my breath. I looked up at Karl with saddened eyes, “I’m sorry Karl, Rita wants me home to help out with grading papers,” I said with a forced chuckle. Karl’s look of worry was replaced with one of relief. “That’s alright, how bout I walk you to your house?” he asked. I nervously chuckled, “I don’t think Rita, our principal, would be happy with her niece with a boy,” I said with a genuine laugh. Fear and realization dawned upon his face, “You’re right, I bet she’d purposefully fail me just for hanging out with you.” Now that got us both back into a light and cheery mood. Karl stood up and offered me his hand. I gratefully accepted it and placed my hand into his as he hoisted me up. I smiled and dusted my bum and thanked Karl for this lovely evening. We split our ways as I ran back to the house with a few shortcuts along the way. I was out of breath by the time I arrived and my mind raced with thoughts. I arrived at the grotto with heavy breaths and immediately felt the somber atmosphere. 

Ondina and Mimmi were by Evie’s side who was currently wrapped in a mint green towel. Zac was sitting on the steps with Rita standing a few steps to his right and Weilan leaning against a table on the opposite side of Ondina, Evie, and Mimmi. Weilan’s head may have been up but her eyes were staring at the floor refusing to look at anyone. I heard Evie dejectedly whisper, “I’m not a mermaid anymore.” My eyes widened. A mermaid’s worst nightmare had come true. I looked at Rita with pleading eyes begging her to tell me this is all a joke. Rita looked at me for a moment and shook her head confirming my dreadful suspicions. All I could do was stand there as I watched the scene unfold. 

“At least you aren’t hurt and the pod is safe,” Rita said almost as she was trying to convince herself, “it could’ve been much worse.” Rita finished just above a whisper. Evie looked at her gloomily and nodded with eyes full of tears. 

Ondina spoke up, “She lost her tail… how could it be worse?” in disbelief. 

Evie stood up shaking off the towel saying she needed to go home with her voice cracking in the end. My heart broke for her. I knew how much she treasured her life as a mermaid, even if it was accidental. Zac immediately stood up and offered to take her home. He tried to touch her hand but Evie shooed it away, not in the mood. Zac, Evie, and Rita left for the grotto to take Evie to the library. I walked down the steps and sat far away from where Ondina and Mimmi were and closer to where Weilan was standing. I could see Weilan’s eyes glossed from underneath my lashes. The guilt was gnawing at her. 

Ondina being Ondina stood up and said something because she always needed to say something, “Nice work Weilan,” she spoke with sarcasm. “I’m so sorry. I never meant for anyone to get hurt.” Weilan pleaded looking at Mimmi and me for support. I grabbed Weilan’s hand comfortingly to let her know that I didn’t blame her. “No, you never considered anyone but yourself,” Ondina said, raising her voice. “Ondina,” Mimmi said, not wanting the two to have another fight. Mimmi disliked seeing the two fight. Perhaps it was because they were too similar or too different. 

“Face it Mimmi. She lied to Veridia to get the pod out of the way. She lost our best chance at defeating the dragon!” Ondina said semi-yelled to Mimmi angrily. “The pod would have failed. I told you moon rings are no match for it!” Weilan said. Her tears threatened to spill and her voice refused to crack. 

“Well we’ll never know now, will we? because the pod never got the chance to use them,” Ondina shot back. “If our planned had worked, we wouldn’t be having this conversation,” Weilan argued. “Correct, although in case it slipped your mind, your plan didn’t work, the dragon is still out there!” Ondina finished. Weilan left and I got up to go after her when Ondina stopped me saying it’s not worth it. My eyes became full of furious rage, I turned around and snapped at Ondina, “How dare you say that?! Imagine losing the pod- your pod to the dragon, imagine how Weilan feels! Don’t you know how harsh your words can be Ondina? Seriously, stop thinking about yourself and how you always need to be right, and for once take people’s feelings into consideration.” I finished, face with splotches of red from the anger. Ondina was standing looking at me in shock like a dried-up fish. I scoffed and told Mimmi that I’ll see them later and dove into the sea opening racing after Weilan. 

 

I swam to the surface nearby by the shore on the west side of Mako, there I saw Weilan sitting with her knees tucked tightly against her chest blankly staring at the sea with her tears finally falling. I dive back underwater and swam a little further away from where Weilan was and dragged myself from the water to where the water could touch my tail. I turn my body so that I'm on my back and start drying my tail using my hydro-thermokinesis power. A few minutes later I transform back with my legs and I start casually walking to Weilan. I sit next to her with my feet out in front of me and lean back on my palms looking at the sky in silence with the occasional sniffles here and there. I sat there quietly until she was ready to say whatever she needed to say. 

"Aren't you going to blame me too?" Weilan asked still looking at the sea. I glanced at Weilan, "I'm not blaming you because I know you have the pod's well-being in interest and only wanted them safe. So that they didn't face the same terrible fate as your pod, am I correct?" I asked softly. Weilan's posture relaxed as she turned her head toward me with reddened and puffy eyes, "Yeah..." she said frowning. We went back into a comfortable silence and stayed like that until Weilan wanted to leave. I offered her to stay in my bed but she refused. "I'll race you back yeah?" I said with a teasing grin hoping to get Weilan cheered up a bit. Thankfully it worked because she ended up beating me. 

 

Later that night I couldn't sleep in fear that the dragon appearing in my dreams. The thought that one of us actually lost our tails to the dragon is truly frightening. 

 

 

Good evening folks, I know I made Ondina out to be a little aggressive but that is how I see her. Don't worry it will change over time and we'll see how Karl's and Cordelia's relationship grows :D

Chapter 5: Deeper Wounds

A few weeks had passed since the dragon incident. 

 

"Evie are you alright?" I asked cautiously. Her cheeks were wet and shiny from all the tears, eyes puffy and bloodshot red. She was a wreck. She hadn’t come out of her room for the entire weekend. 

“Go away… please,” Evie pleaded. My brows furrowed. I didn’t know what to do. Sighing, I walked to Evie’s side and hugged her. I know she’s in pain and is full of sadness. Evie leaned into her shoulder and quietly cried. Evie’s father was out doing another boat trip so Evie had the whole house to herself. I softly rub circles into Evie’s shoulder and gently rock our bodies in a forward and backward motion. 

Evie was simply heartbroken. Devastated. Crushed. 

I looked up to Carly for an answer but she shrugged. We were both clueless as to how we could help her. Looking back down I only thought of one thing, ‘What’s next now?’ 

 

Evie is doing better now and is coping by going diving with her father again. It’s good for Evie to be around her father because she didn’t have much time to dive and spend quality time with him since she got her tail. Evie gifted Weilan her moon ring. I doubt that the pain will go away soon but at least she accepted what had happened and that there is nothing that we can do to fix it or reverse it. 

Rita, Weilan, Mimmi, and I were eating breakfast in the grotto. Prawns for breakfast! Ondina walked past us, quickly picking up a prawn before being stopped by Rita’s voice. Rita asked if Ondina got breakfast. Ondina said she did and held up the prawn for display. I shook my head as I continued eating my plate of prawns. 

“Maybe you should grab one more prawn. Just in case,” Weilan commented. 

Ondina scoffed, “Maybe you should come and watch me teach, you might even learn something.” 

Weilan snorted but went with Ondina after she finished her plate. I turned to Mimmi, “How much do you wanna bet something is going to go wrong? I bet $20.” 

Mimmi smirked mischievously, “Deal.” 

We both turned to hear Rita sigh with a chuckle. “You girls outta stop betting on such silly things.” Mimmi and I smiled and laughed. Looking at the time on my wristwatch my eyes widened in realization as I saw what time it was. 

“Mimmi, it’s time to go,” I said as I stuff the last of my prawns into my mouth. Mimmi and Rita shook there heads but didn’t comment. I had quit my old job and the cafe and gotten a job as a tour guide at the marine park. It’s convenient since I work similar days as Mimmi and I can now walk with her to work. Mimmi and I left for work. In the middle of our conversation, we heard Weilan calling our names. 

"Mimmi! Cordelia! I have some exciting news!" Weilan said with evident excitement with a hint of irritation. Mimmi and I looked at each other wondering what could've gotten Weilan in such a state. We stopped walking so Weilan could catch up with us and tell us her exciting news. 

"Ondina is going to teach the little hatchlings how to walk on land at the Western Lagoon on Mako, and I'm helping," Weilan said out of breath, huffing, and puffing. 

Now it was my turn to be excited, "Ondina's teaching the girls how to walk on land? That is exciting!"  I squealed thinking about how cute the little ones would look dancing and hopping around on their legs. 

Mimmi looked excited but also concerned, "That sounds like fun but won't that be too much to do, even for Ondina?" 

"Pft, Ondina will be fine, Mimmi! She has Weilan helping her besides, it'll be good to have a solution if the dragon thing isn't figured out," said reassuringly. Mimmi nodded considering my words. 

"Right, now I need to go and grab some clothes for the hatchlings. You think we could go to the cafe before splitting our ways?" Weilan asked with hopeful eyes. 

I turned to Mimmi to see what she had to say about it, "That's a wonderful idea. Let's go." 

The three of us walked happily toward the Ocean Cafe joking about the different ways Ondina could mess up today's lesson. We could imagine how our first time walking on land was and cringed when we remembered face planting the moment we tried to step forward. We laughed and shared our joys and embarrassment in our first-time experiences. 

We arrived at the cafe and proceeded to walk to the gift shop wondering what to pick for the little ones. "Hey, Evie!" I excitedly call out. 

Evie, who was helping another customer, turned and smiled, “Hey, Cordelia. How can I help you today?”

“Well, we were wondering if you could fix a few outfits for Ondina’s class, she’s going to teach them how to walk at the Western Lagoon on Mako!” I exclaimed in excitement. 

Evie’s brows rose in surprise and her smile widened, “Wow, I never thought Ondina to teach hatchlings how to walk. They must’ve bugged her. And, of course, I can throw together something for the little ones.” 

“Thanks, Evie. I’ll pay for them with my savings from my old job,” I said thankfully.

“I still can’t believe Ondina is teaching the little mermaids how to walk,” Mimmi said in disbelief but also with excitement. 

Weilan asked if Mimmi and I wanted to help but we politely turned down the offer because we still had work to get to. “Well, whatever you guys got going on today, I got all your stuff right here. That’ll be $35.72,” Evie said with her left palm facing up. I thanked her and put the amount in her hand while Weilan grabbed the bag.

“Thanks, Cordelia. I’ve got to go now before Ondina complains,” Weilan said with a goofy grin before leaving the cafe. 

Mimmi and I said goodbye to Evie and went on our way to the marine park. I was excited bout the tour that I’ll be giving to a class of fifth-graders. When we arrived at the park, Mimmi and I parted ways since our jobs were on the opposite sides of the park. I entered the staff room to be met with a lady in a marine park uniform with capri pants, blonde hair, and bright green eyes waiting for me. “Hello! My name is Amanda and I’m your manager. I’ll be overlooking your tour today, and since it’s your first day here, we’re only giving you one tour as a trial just to see how well you perform,” Amanda exclaimed with a bright smile showing off her pearly whites. I nodded and introduced myself to her and shook her hand ready to start my day. 

Amanda led me to the park's entrance where a group of children waited. Before we approached the group Amanda turned to me, "Did you memorize everything you're supposed to?" I nodded letting her know that I did read and memorize every page that all tour guides are required to memorize. Amanda nodded and we approached the group with warm smiles. 

"Hello everyone! My name is Cordelia and I'll be your tour guide today," I welcomed loud enough to capture the group's attention. "now if you follow me, to our left is the penguin exhibit." 

 

"Wow, you were fantastic today! You're going to do well as a tour guide and you're good with the children," Amanda complimented. I shyly smile in embarrassment.

"Thank you, Amanda. I appreciate you saying that. What should I do now?" I asked still embarrassed by the compliment. 

"Oh, well, you're not needed at the park anymore today so just go home. You've done well today," Amanda said with a smile before leaving me in a rock tunnel with fish tanks on both sides. The tunnel was dim so I was caught off guard when I felt someone grab my shoulder. I turned around prepared to drop kick whoever grabbed me. 

"Mimmi? What are you doing? You scared me you know," I dramatically exclaimed with both of my hands on top of my heart. 

"Sorry, but right now is not the time for games. Karl and Chris are going to the Western Lagoon where the hatchlings are, we need to warn Weilan and Ondina before Chris or Karl sees something they're not supposed to," Mimmi said clearly frustrated and worried. I nodded and jogged out of the tunnel and out of the marine park diving into the nearest body of water. We raced to Mako hoping we were not too late. We rose to the surface near a few rocks that blocked us from anyone coming from the West and dragged ourselves to the shore so we could dry off and get legs. Once we got our legs we bolted toward the western lagoon to warn Weilan and Ondina to get the hatchlings off the island.

"Weilan!" Mimmi shouted catching Weilan's attention. 

Weilan turned around and smiled, "Hey, I thought you were working?"

"Where's Ondina?" Mimmi asked brushing her question off.

"Amaris took off. Ondina's gone off to find her." Weilan said confused. 

"We've got to get them off the beach," Mimmi said pointing to the boat coming toward the lagoon, "we've got company."

Weilan understanding the situation now ordered the girls to swim back to the pod as fast as they can, "Go! Go!" 

"We better find Amaris and Ondina," Weilan said worriedly.

The three of us darted into the forest looking for Ondina. We ran into her after fifteen minutes of running, not knowing where we were going. 

"What are you doing here? Where are the others? Don't tell me they ran off, too." Ondina questioned, worried about the hatchlings.

"I sent them off to the pod."

"Why?" 

"Chris and Karl are heading here." Mimmi interrupted.

A look of dread fell on Ondina's face as she realize the situation and danger Amaris is in now. We searched closer to the middle of the island shouting Amaris's name. Ondina was worried out of her mind. She began doubting her ability to teach and wondered how she'll tell Veridia she lost a student on land. 

 

This day couldn't get any worse. We bumped into Chris and Karl at the beach and now we're all searching for Amaris. I leaned toward Ondina and whispered, "You guys take the island, I'll look in the water. She might've gotten frightened and hid in the caves under Mako." Ondina nodded knowing it's a possible scenario. I smiled and comfortingly rubbed her shoulder. I waited till everyone was ahead of me in the forest before turning back around and headed toward the lagoon. I swam into cave after cave finding no sign of Amaris. Where the heck is this rascel at? Deciding to go back to the lagoon I swam out of one of the caves and saw to the surface for air. Before surfacing for air, I see Amaris. I tap Amaris's shoulder and relief washed over my face. 

We surfaced to the the surface and breathed in fresh air, I turned to Amaris with my arms crossed, "Amaris, you've got to stop doing that. Ondina is going crazy over looking for you." Amaris shyed away in embarrassment and guilt. 

Sighing I asked Amaris if she was alright and if she's hurt, "Amaris, we need to go find the others and let them know you're okay," I said before waddling toward to the shore and repeating the process of dragging myself on the dryer part of the shore and dry myself off. Once I've got my legs I turn to see if Amaris have done the same. When I see she's got her legs we go and search for Ondina.

"Ondina! I've found her!" I shouted when I spotted her. She was sitting on the sand near where we came from. 

Ondina let out a breath of relief, "Thank Posiden you're alright Amaris. Do you know how much trouble you've put us all through? Don't run off like that again." 

"I'm sorry, Ondina."

Ondina and I sighed glad that we found her. "Let's go find the others now. They'll be glad that we've found you," I said before walking ahead of the two. 

"Hey you guys! We've found her," Ondina said to Mimmi, Weilan, Karl, and Chris. They were gathered in a circle talking amongst themselves. Ondina made Amaris apologize to the others for making everyone worried. Karl and Chris were leaving since it was getting late. 

I felt someone tap on my shoulder, "Hey, Cordelia. Can we talk?" I turned to see Karl with his signature smile. 

"Yeah, sure. What's up?" I asked. 

"How about we go on a date later this week?" Karl asked. 

I broke out into a grin on cloud nine, "I'd love to." 

"Great! How about the beach then to some mini golfing?" 

"Sounds great! I'm free on Saturday. Eight. Don't forget," I smiled sweetly. 

Karl's grin widened, "Wouldn't miss it for the world." 

Chris and Karl boarded the speed boat and left the lagoon leaving the five of us on the island waving at the boat.

 

"Ugh, I'm exhausted! Thank god this day is over," Ondina exaggerated tiredly. 

Mimmi, Weilan, and I grinned mischievously. Oh the next few weeks are going to be filled with delicious lobster and prawns.