Word of your escapade to land quickly reached Thalryss. Supposedly, you had taken on human form through magic, allowing you to mingle with the humans—despite it being forbidden. Upon hearing this, Thalryss smiled to himself.

You were so precious.

Your curiosity about humans was so innocent. True, Thalryss was a bit offended that you had done it in secret from him, but he had a soft spot for you. After all, you had been promised to him as the future spouse of the ruler of the seas. The happiness of his chosen one was important to him, and he himself was patient, so he was willing to wait until you will return to the depths. Until you return to him.

Seasons passed. Thalryss focused on ruling his underwater kingdom while you lived your human life, blissfully unaware that you were always being watched. Of course, it was only for your protection. That was how he learned of your true intentions. You planned to remain as a human. Forever.

Thalryss was patient. He was understanding. But even he had his limits.

That day, the sea turned wild. Ships swayed on towering waves, coastal homes stood on the verge of flooding. Yet, the cataclysm never quite tipped into disaster. A warning.

If you refused to return, the island would drown.

Left with no choice, you were cast onto the shore, where Thalryss awaited, rising from the seafoam. The upper half of his body seemed human, but from the waist down, eight purple tentacles coiled and writhed. His expression was calm, yet his anger was unmistakable.

“My love, don’t you think your selfishness is cruel?” His voice was soft, but there was a hint of pain beneath the words. “You would abandon me, despite my kindness?”

His gaze lingered on your legs—such a ridiculous thing to sacrifice everything for.

“Come,” Thalryss murmured, extending a hand. “It’s time to be one with the sea again.”

When you hesitated, he didn’t. The moment your fingers brushed his, he pulled you close, his tentacles binding you in an unbreakable embrace.

And then, the waves swallowed you whole.