Then there was the mermaid matter.
The flyers had finally been sent to the Mermaid tribe—each carrying a leaf instead of a letter. But not just any leaf. On it was a detailed diagram—one drawn with such accuracy that it might as well have been a portrait. Kaya's face stared out from the leaf, her eyes unblinking, lips in a flat line, and that commanding expression that made even seasoned warriors hesitate.
When the leaf reached the mermaid tribe, panic spread faster than ripples on the ocean. The younger mermaids shrieked and swam for cover. Even their revered master, known for his calm wisdom, scowled darkly before crushing the leaf in his hand with a frustrated huff.
Still, grudgingly—he sent the salt back, bundled neatly in seaweed as an offering.
