The Merfolk army marched in tight formation, their ranks moving steadily toward the great gate of the City of the Whale Fall.
The gate itself was colossal—wide enough for the entire army to pass through at once, its surface glimmering faintly under the dim blue light of the deep.
"Wait a moment…"
Just as Ethan and the King were about to step through the entrance, the Merfolk King suddenly stopped. Ethan hesitated, unsure why, until the King turned toward the Third Princess, Star.
"Star," he said, his tone deliberate, "do you still have the Merfolk Veil you conceived?"
The princess froze for a heartbeat, instantly understanding his meaning.
She raised her hand, and three small, white, flame-like wisps drifted into view above her palm, their light flickering softly in the water.
"Father, I've only managed to create three Merfolk Veils over the years," she said, her voice tinged with embarrassment.
"Three?" The King's face brightened with delight. "Haha… excellent, excellent!"
