The Pirate's Princess (Sirens & Steel Book 2)

by Bethany Wicker

  “Is there a certain thing I’m supposed to wear? Like a certain color or something?” I asked.

  Alda swam by me and opened up the closet. She pulled out a white dress and handed it to me. “We wear white because it’s the color of the gods and the day your soul passes on to eternity is a happy one. There will be time for mourning, but not usually at the ceremony. I’m just telling you this because I’m sure no one else has yet. Save your tears for private time.”

  “Thank you. I haven’t been warned about that. I do have a question though. What if a child were to die? Would people cry then?”

  “Not at the ceremony. Like I said, the ceremony is a time to rejoice the passing on of the soul. Yes, it’s sad when you lose someone, but there’s a reason they’re no longer here. Maybe it was your father’s time because it’s your turn to be queen. The fates work in mysterious ways.”

  “Do you think I’ll make a good queen?”

  “Do you want the truth or sweet words to make you smile?”

  “The truth, always the truth. At least while were here in my room. I’ll never be a good queen if my people can’t tell me the truth.”

  Alda nodded. “I think you’ll be an amazing queen in time. For now, there’s still so much of the siren ways you have to learn. Also, continue to earn their respect as you have and you will be on your way to greatness.”

  “You mean, I’ve actually been earning their respect?”

  “Your ability to heal is one we have not seen in centuries. Word about it is already spreading. Helping the others like you did earned a lot of respect, especially with Daniel. He’s been talking about you nonstop to his followers. You’ve left an impression on him and now have friends in high places.”

  I crossed my arms. “I thought caring about people was a sign of weakness.”

  “It is when it’s wasted on humans. When you care about your people and do stuff that makes them happy, that’s the role of being a queen. You must help your subjects if you want them to help you.”

  “Thank you for being here even after such a devastating event.”

  “That is my role, My Lady. I’m here to assist you no matter how hard times grow. I’m sorry for your loss as well. King Delmer was a great king and will be missed.”

  “Thank you. Do you think you can give me a few moments alone to gather myself?”

  “Of course, call me if you need help with anything else before the ceremony.”

  “Will do, thanks again.”

  “You’re welcome, my queen.”

  She left my room and with the water filling everything, I wasn’t able to hear her familiar footsteps stomping away. Sound was different under the water. Everything was muffled or nonexistent. It was strange and I didn’t think I could get used to it. I hoped the others would decide for me to put the air bubble back in place. The only reason sirens could hear each other talk was because of the magic in our voices.

  As I slipped into my dress, I allowed myself to cry. Being in the water helped this situation because the others would never know I did. My tears just blended into the surroundings.

  It was still hard to swallow that my dad was dead. I had no one and yet, I was supposed to rule the siren kingdom. I didn’t know how to be a princess, let alone a queen.

  It was much harder pulling a dress on when wet. The fabric protested, but I won in the end. Once the silky white dress was on, I figured it was time to leave. I gave myself another minute to calm my tears before opening my door. What I didn’t expect was for Thames to be waiting for me outside of it.

  “Hello.” He waved. “I thought it would be nice to see a friendly face at a time like this.”

  “I appreciate it.” I shot him a small smile.

  He offered me his arm and I accepted it, hooking mine into his. Too bad Steel couldn’t be here, but Thames would be my rock until I could see Steel again. I promised him I would return quickly, but didn’t see that happening after this attack. I was needed here to help with restoring order.

  Thames led me outside of the castle where the others were gathered. They all watched and bowed their heads when I passed them. There were no chairs for the sirens to sit in, so they remained standing.

  I tried to smile as reassuringly as I could but was probably failing miserably at it because it felt tensed and strained. The only thing I could promise was that I wouldn’t cry. That piece of advice I would take and hold my tears back until I was in private once again.

  Thames led me to the front of the crowd where Eleanor, Pricilla, Rodrick, and Peter were all waiting. They stood next to a bed made of seaweed and flowers. On that bed rested the body of my dad. Seeing him so openly and unresponsive made me mentally retract my promise of holding back the tears. A shudder ran down my spine and my stomach flip-flopped.

  “Don’t cry here,” Thames whispered, as if he sensed my distress. “Think of a happy memory or focus on something else that’ll keep a smile on your face. You don’t want to be seen shedding tears. Even though we’ve lost our king, we are still rejoicing for our new queen. Show them how strong you are.”

  “I don’t feel strong. I feel like a little girl who wants her mommy and daddy.”

  “Don’t think like that. You are strong. You can do this. Just squeeze my arm and focus on that.”

  I took a deep breath and did as he instructed. It helped a little, but I still couldn’t bring myself to look at my dad. Instead, I focused on the bouquets that were sitting in various makeshift stands. Once I reached Eleanor’s side, she placed a hand on my shoulder.

  “Are you ready?” she asked with a tight smile.

  “As ready as I can be,” I replied.

  “That's all we can ask. Please, stand next to your father. Thames, do you want to stand by the others or stay with her?”

  “Whichever the queen wishes.” He looked to me with a gentle smile.

  “Stay with me, please,” I said before he could leave. I didn’t want to lose my rock.

  “Then, here I’ll stay.” Thames nodded at Eleanor.

  “Very well.” She turned to face the crowd after I moved next to my father‘s body. “As you all have heard and witnessed, our great King Delmer has passed. We are here to celebrate his next step in the circle of life and welcome our new queen. May the gods allow his soul to rest in peace.”

  “May the gods allow his soul to rest in peace,” the others recited while I stood there awkwardly.

  “We have suffered a battle and loss others who will be sent into the circle of life as well. Let’s take a moment to honor their memory too. May the gods let their souls rest in peace.”

  This time, I knew to say it along with them. “May the gods let their souls rest in peace.”

  Eleanor continued once it quieted again. “Our king, along with our family and friends, are being given the chance at eternal life. We are happy for them and know they will never suffer another day. Their souls may have departed, but their memories never will. We will all join them one day in the afterlife as is the circle of life and it’s up to the fates to decide when. As tradition, we will have our new queen say a few words about our passing king.” Eleanor waved for me to come forward.

  Nobody told me I would have to speak and I felt so unprepared to talk in front of all these people. I swallowed the lump that attempted to form in my throat. I tried to hold onto Thames but he released me with a shake of the head. This was something I would have to do on my own. I hoped the water prevented the others from seeing the shaking in my knees. I thought of my dad’s strength and told myself I could do this. It was what he would want. Both he and my mom.

  “Hey everyone.” I started awkwardly and cleared my throat. “I know I knew a different King Delmer than you guys, but that doesn’t change how great of a person he was. He was someone who didn’t let anyone push him around. He was also someone who saw the best in me. You didn’t have to know him to see that he would help anyone in need. With his passing, I will become your new queen. I want you all to know that even th
ough I’m part-human, you all will come first. As the new siren queen, you can count on me to be a voice for those who won’t speak up. I will also forge a path for change and open up an opportunity for peace. But for now, let’s send my dad off into the circle of life.”

  “To King Delmer! May the gods let his soul rest in peace,” everyone cheered.

  Thames came up and claimed my arm again as he turned us to face my dad. I held my breath knowing that if I would release it, it would come out as a sob.

  “Almost done,” he said reassuringly and patted my arm. “You did excellent.”

  I nodded, unable to form words. We watched as Rodrick and Peter lifted Dad’s body and pushed it out towards the open water. A few minutes later, the Kraken appeared.

  He looked at me. “It would be my honor to partake in the ceremony if you would allow it.”

  “Do you usually ask permission?” I asked in my head and hoped that it would successfully reach him.

  Thankfully, an answer quickly followed. “No, but usually I can’t speak to the siren. I know this was your father, so I’m trying to be respectful because you are the Fated Princess.”

  “I guess in a strange way, I’m happy that it’s you.”

  A few seconds after that, he swallowed Dad’s body and I looked away unable to watch.

  “Be at peace knowing his soul has moved on. My job is done, but remember to signal with your blood if you need me,” the Kraken said.

  I didn’t answer and watched as he left. I understood this was the way things were supposed to be, but it was hard to grasp that my father was being digested right now. It sounded like a terrible way to go, but I had to remind myself that his soul had already departed. As the new queen, it wasn’t my place to break a tradition like this. Not yet at least.

  “What happens now?” I asked Thames.

  “Whatever you want, my queen,” he answered. “Usually everyone will join together and eat a celebratory meal, but it’s entirely up to you.”

  I chewed the inside of my cheek and turned to face the crowd. “All right, I think our first move should be to restore our barrier since it’s our main defense against the mermaids if they were ever to come back. After that, we can eat with the peace of mind knowing that we’re protected. Pricilla, did you find out whether they want an air bubble or to remain under the water?”

  Pricilla stepped forward. “Yes, Your Majesty. After asking around, the majority would like the air bubble, so they can enjoy the sun without fear. They’ve grown accustomed to it and aren’t ready to give it up.”

  “An air bubble it is then. I like that choice the best too. Give me a moment.” I twisted to look at Eleanor. “Did my dad have to do anything special to form the barrier?”

  Eleanor shook her head. “I’m not sure how he did it. He just did, but maybe the necklace helped?”

  I nodded and bit my lip as I mulled over my next move. “I guess I’ll just use the necklace. That seems like the only option to me.”

  I fiddled with the pendant, shut my eyes, and took a few deep breaths before trying to tap into the magic. A low hum filled my ears and it felt like my body was vibrating with power. I clenched my teeth to prevent them from chattering. My skin grew warm and I raised my arms into the air as I pictured the same air bubble that my dad had conjured.

  I focused on the castle being free of water. I thought of the alternation between the sun and the stars—night and day. Lastly, I recalled the enchanted garden as I willed for the magic to return everything to the way it was supposed to be. I felt my body growing weaker, but didn’t stop just yet. I pushed and pushed until I couldn’t anymore. Blackness clouded my vision and I felt myself falling backwards.

  Chapter Fourteen

  I woke in my room, but I’d been placed on the couch instead of my bed. I touched my forehead as the slight ache in it started to subside. My mouth felt dry and my eyes were heavy-lidded and wanted to remain closed.

  “My Lady, you’re awake.” Alda’s voice said and only then did I notice she was sitting in a chair at my side. “I was told to sit with you until your eyes opened. I will call for Eleanor like she instructed. Do you need anything right now? Do you need me to bring anything back?”

  “Something hot to drink please,” I croaked and rubbed my throat.

  Alda nodded and left. A few minutes later, Eleanor entered. Her eyes were swollen with fatigue and her hair was tied up, but stuck out in a lot of places. Her messy state didn’t make her look like an enthralling siren at the moment.

  “Your Majesty, how are you feeling,” Eleanor asked. “We were so worried when you fell unconscious.”

  “I’ve been better.” I placed my feet on the ground and sat up fully. “I can see I’m not underwater and that I’m breathing in air. Does that mean it worked?” I asked feeling like there was a frog stuck in my throat.

  Eleanor smiled. “It did… well… sort of.”

  “What do you mean by sort of?”

  “Oh, you made the barrier safe and secure and full of air instead of water. The sun and stars have been restored and alternate with night and day. The water was forced from the castle, but it didn’t leave everything dry. Our beds and clothes were still wet, but for some reason the couches weren’t. That’s why you aren’t in your bed.”

  “That isn’t so bad for my first try.”

  “No, it isn’t. We have the windows open throughout the castle to get rid of the musky smell that developed. Our blankets and anything else that’s still wet are hanging outside in the sun to dry.”

  “I slept all night and it’s already morning?”

  Eleanor hesitated. “Sera, you’ve been out for three days. We were so worried, but your chest rose and fell with deep, even breaths so we knew you were alive.”

  “Three days! That can’t be.”

  “I’m afraid it is. Using that much magic at once took a toll on your body, but we have been safe thanks to the success of your barrier. We’ve seen a few mermaids lurking around, but none have been able to break through.”

  Alda chose that moment to return with a steaming glass cup. “I managed to find some hot tea. This should help you to feel better.”

  She handed me the glass and I gratefully accepted it. The tea was bitter and burned as it slid down my throat. It was exactly what I needed right now and I took another sip.

  “Be careful not to burn yourself,” Alda said with raised eyebrows.

  “It isn’t too hot. It’s perfect. Thank you.”

  “Isn’t too hot? It was nearly boiling when I carried it here. I think you can tolerate extreme temperatures without them bothering you.”

  “What do you mean?” Eleanor asked while I was taking another sip.

  “I mean, she can drink a scalding drink without a blink of the eye and is able to sit in a freezing tub all day without even a chattering of the teeth.”

  “Is that true?” Eleanor looked at me.

  I shrugged. “I guess so. I never paid much attention to it.”

  “Well, I noticed.” Alda clicked her tongue.

  “What do you think it means?” I asked.

  “Not sure. Probably just another part of being the Fated Princess,” Eleanor replied.

  “What else is going to come up? I feel like every day there’s something new.”

  “That’s because the idea of a Fated Princes is new to us as well. You’re the first person to have this trait in history. Actually, we should probably change it to the Fated Queen now.”

  “I guess so, but that feels even weirder to hear. Do you think I can go see Steel now that the barrier’s up?”

  “As the queen, you can do whatever you’d like, but I would recommend holding a council meeting first to make sure everything is in order.”

  “Very well, will you gather everyone in the small dining room and make sure there’s some food for us while I take a bath and get ready?”

  Eleanor smirked. “You’re stepping into the queen title without any problem.”

  “M
ight as well since it isn’t going anywhere,” I reasoned. “Alda, do you mind drawing me a hot bath?”

  “Not all, Your Majesty. I’ll get right on it,” Alda replied and left to go get some water.

  “And I guess I will go gather the others and make sure there’s hot food waiting for you,” Eleanor said in a mocking tone.

  “Eleanor, don’t think I’m trying to be rude. I just really want to see Steel right now.”

  “Matters of the heart are unfamiliar to me. I don’t have a mate or any children, so I must admit that I cannot relate to your situation. However, I will respect your wishes.”

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize, so that’s all I can hope for. Thank you.”

  Eleanor inclined her head with a smile and left. Alda filled my bath and I could see the steam floating up. I stepped in slowly and relished the feeling of my stiff muscles relaxing. Alda dropped something into my water and bubbles erupted.

  “Thought you might like a little special touch to your bath today. It’s something a friend of mine makes and it does wonders for the skin.” Alda smiled. “I’ll leave you to relax. Call if you need anything.”

  When she was gone, I sank into the water. The bubbles smelled like flowers and I leaned my head back on the edge of the tub. I allowed myself to soak for a good half an hour before climbing out. I threw on a simple knee-length dress and dashed out to join the council members.

  There was a feast waiting for me, but it was strange and upsetting to see everyone except Dad present. It was another reminder that he was gone.

  Pricilla, Rodrick, Peter, and Eleanor were already seated, but hadn’t started eating yet. I thought of what my dad said and figured they’d been waiting on me. Royalty had to be the first to start everything. I needed to keep that in mind the next time I kept people waiting.

  “Sorry guys, the bath felt too good to get out,” I said.

  “We understand. Are you hungry?” Pricilla asked.

  “Starved,” I replied as I sat down and filled my plate with food.

  The others copied me and loaded their dishes as well. They waited for me to take the first bite before they begin eating.