Kalena

The heavy doors to my father's throne room creaked open, and I swam inside with a growing sense of unease. The cavernous room was dimly lit by bioluminescent coral sconces along the rock walls, their aqua glow casting wavering shadows across the sandy floor. My father sat atop his towering coral throne, his expression grim.

"Kalena," he rumbled, echoing through the empty chamber. "It is time we discussed your future."

My stomach sank. I knew what this discussion was about.

"As you know, our Kingdom's alliance with the Kai'Uli has weakened over the past few moons," he continued. "After much deliberation, I have arranged your marriage to Keanu, son of King Kamalani. This union will renew our kingdoms' bonds and ensure lasting peace between our peoples."

The news crashed over me like a rogue wave, knocking the breath from my lungs. Marriage… To Keanu…

I stared at my father, heart pounding. "But...I don't love him…," I whispered.

Father's gaze was stern, yet regret flickered in his eyes. "As a princess, you must unite our tribes through marriage. I'm sorry, Kalena, but the arrangement has already been made."

My tail lashed in agitation. Marry Keanu? I wanted to scream…To swim away as fast as my fins could carry me.

Instead, I inclined my head. "Yes, Father."

When he dismissed me, I swam away, my turquoise tail beating furiously. How could he? I loved my father, but his overprotectiveness suffocated me like a fisherman's net. Perhaps he thought it was best for our kingdom, but what was best for me?

Finally, alone, I collapsed on a flat rock, sobs wracking my body. It wasn't fair! I was a princess, yet I had no choice, no freedom…my dreams of finding true love felt crushed by the weight of duty and tradition.

I needed to speak with Wikolia. My best friend always knew how to soothe my temper and help me see clearly. This time, however, the path before me remained obscured, duty and desire colliding like the breakers on the rocky shore.

I refused to be trapped in a life, not of my choosing. I was the princess of Lalo'Kai, but I was also Kalena - strong-willed, fiercely determined to follow my heart. If that meant defying my father, the king, so be it. I would find a way or make one.

I swam through the kelp forest, the long green strands brushing against my fins as I hurried to Wikolia's coral cave. She emerged as I approached, her sunny smile fading as she took in my distressed expression.

"What's wrong?" she asked, her emerald green tail swishing in agitation.

I told her about the arranged marriage, the words spilling out in a torrent. "I don't know what to do," I finished helplessly. "Father expects me to fulfill my duty without complaint, but the thought of being bound to a stranger makes my heart ache."

Wikolia wrapped me in a gentle embrace. "I cannot imagine the burden you bear," she said softly. "But you know I will support you, whatever you decide."

I clung to her, drawing strength from her steadfast loyalty. Wikolia always saw the best in me, even when I doubted myself. With her at my side, I could find the courage to fight for the future I wanted.

"I cannot do this," I choked out. "To be bound forever to a merman I do not love..." I trailed off, overcome with despair.

Why should I sacrifice my chance at love and happiness for a political alliance? I was more than just a bargaining chip for my father to use!

But the laws of succession were clear…. As firstborn, I must marry whom the king decreed… Defying him could put the Kingdom at risk…I yearned to break free of rules written long before my time… But the needs of the many had to come before those of one mermaid…That was our way...

How could Father do this to me? My entire life had been leading to one purpose - becoming Queen and serving my people. And now he would toss me aside, sacrifice my dreams and passions to uphold some antiquated law.

Needing time alone, I swim to a secluded cove, my haven away from the bustling kingdom.

Sobs wracked my body as I grieved all I was losing - my home, my dreams, my very identity. I had thought my strong will could sway Father, but he remained unmoved. I was powerless against the crushing weight of tradition. 

One thing was sure - I could never marry that merman. No matter what it took, I had to find a way to stop this arrangement and take control of my fate. I refused to be trapped in a loveless union. Keanu Kaleo would not be my destiny.

I longed to break the surface and feel the sun on my face. To explore the surface-dweller world I'd heard tales about. But now, my future holds only cold obligations in Keanu's cruel grasp.

Wiping my eyes, I steeled myself. I would not let them cage my spirit. I would find a way to follow my heart. I had to believe that.

Closing my eyes, I tried to center myself and find some peace.