Shui Yi's eyes widened as the mysterious girl spoke. "You're not allowed to touch my Master," she said, lowering her hand before stepping forward. As quick as the wind, she darted to Long Fei and wrapped her arms around his shoulders.
"Master, you took forever. I had to entertain myself."
He returned her hug with a small pat. "Ling Yue, impeccable timing as always."
The mermaid's heart fluttered, a strange warmth blooming in her chest. The girl's presence felt comforting, like the sea's gentle embrace—an unexpected rush of familiarity. For a moment, it felt like she had found a piece of home, and a smile pulled at her lips. Before she could act on the sudden urge to embrace this girl, she caught herself. She quickly took a step back, feeling a bit awkward.
"Thank you for saving me, back there. You're the whale, aren't you?"
The girl glanced at her, a spark of curiosity in her eyes. "I'm surprised you figured that out on your own. I'm Ling Yue, the most loyal and talented guardian pet," she said with a cheeky grin. "Though we've known each other for millennia," she added, gesturing to herself and the Master. "So, you better watch yourself around your elders."
"Guardian pet? What does that mean exactly?"
"Means I protect him," the guardian said fiercely. "So don't get too attached. I've been around long before you showed up. Don't think you can just stroll in and start making demands."
Shui Yi winced as she's never been spoken to like that before. Despite the girl's attitude, it was crystal clear she cared deeply for her master.
Long Fei's calm voice cut through the tension. "Ling Yue, be polite."
"But Master~," she whined, clicking her tongue, "You can't even look at her?"
Her cheeks flushed at the implication and the need to deflect the attention. "So, you're this thief's pet? Fetch anything for him?"
"Thief?! He wouldn't even steal a grain of rice. Unlike some who throw pearls around like candy." She flicked her tail in irritation. "Take that back right now. He's a noble immortal!" she snapped, her claws extended as a warning. Long Fei quickly stepped in and held her back.
"Deep breaths..." he motioned for her to calm down. "You know Her Highness had a sheltered life. She needs to learn a lot from you. Let's stay focused on why we're here. Don't say unnecessary things." His tone was firm, giving his pet a stern look.
His pet grumbled, but obeyed, her arms crossed tightly. "Fine. But just you wait," she muttered, her eyes narrowing at the exiled royal. "When Master's not around... you'll see."
The exiled royal couldn't help but tease. "Does your entourage never end?"
The guardian huffed, clearly offended. "Hey. I saved you from those pirates, so show some respect."
"Oh really? I didn't see you," the mermaid replied with a light and teasing tone.
The loyal companion's sharp gaze turned back to her. "Former princess, you insulted my Master, so I had no reason to keep you in my mouth," she stuck her tongue out, though the edge in her eyes didn't go unnoticed. "You made him uncomfortable."
The exiled heiress cringed, recalling her behavior. Her face flushed, and her head drew back like a turtle hiding in its shell at the thought that there was another witness. It was not her finest moment.
The loyal companion turned her attention back to Long Fei.
"Master, aren't you cold?" Her gaze shifted to his robe, still wrapped around the exiled heiress' waist. She gasped, reaching into her satchel and pulling out luxurious clothes.
"I thought you might need a change of clothes," she said, handing them over to the Master. He gave her an appreciative smile. Then she glared at the outcast. "Haven't you heard of modesty? You need to put on some proper clothes." She tugged at her arm, leaving no room for protest. "That robe? I'll burn it later. I've got something more appropriate for you."
Before the princess could react, Ling Yue dragged her behind a nearby tree with surprising strength. "Hold still," she said as she retrieved some fabric from her satchel. "I've got something for you to wear."
Shui Yi froze, her face crimson as she tried to back away. "What is this?!" she gasped. She was swiftly pinned between the trees and quickly wrapped in the fabric. She had no idea how her arms and legs fit.
"This feels like... like dried seaweed!" she gasped, struggling in the strange, slick material.
The guardian grinned, tightening the collar around her neck. "It's stealthy. It'll work. You won't stand out in this." She stepped back, admiring her handiwork. The fabric clung to the mermaid's body like a second skin, sleek and malleable, designed for action. "There. Now we can leave. You're covered."
Shui Yi tugged at the sleeves in vain, wishing it was more breathable.
The companion glinted with mischief in her eyes. "What's the matter? Not used to being dressed?"
"I never imagined this is how I'd be dressed," the heiress muttered, still struggling with the strange material.
***
Long Fei raised an eyebrow as he approached, his gaze briefly flicking to his confidante with a slight smile. "Not quite what I had in mind either," he murmured, biting back a chuckle. The sight of the princess dressed in the stealth clothes she had chosen was... not what he expected. They were far from elegance, but he supposed it would suffice. His loyal companion gave him a sly grin as if she knew exactly what he was thinking.
"It'll do for now. Besides, it's better than walking around half-dressed."
The mermaid sighed, clearly uncomfortable in the unfamiliar attire. He couldn't blame her; the unflattering attire was a far cry from 'royalty'.
A guttural groan rumbled through the mist.
His expression instantly hardened. He pulled the mermaid behind him, his stance shifting to shield her. His companion's playful demeanor vanished. Her voice, now cutting and serious, pierced the tension.
"Stay sharp, former princess. We've got company."
The princess clutched the back of his cloak, her grip tightening with each passing moment. He could feel her trembling. He scanned the twirling mist. He shifted slightly, preparing for whatever danger lurking in the dark.
A faint scrape on the damp earth could be heard. It was barely audible, but it sent a shiver down his spine. He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand, his senses heightened. His jaw clenched. Too many auras. They were circling, waiting.
Ling Yue shifted beside him, poised like a predator waiting to strike. Her instincts had been honed by countless battles. Her eyes narrowed, and a low growl rumbled from her throat. He could see her claws flexing, every sense on edge.
"Hope you're ready. This is gonna get ugly."