The Cursed Prince

"So Mermaids exist in a sea that takes half a day's journey?" Harlow asked and joined the conversation. She wondered if it was possible to get there faster with Icecube. 

Going on an adventure to find mermaids seemed like a very fun thing to do. She imagined it must be at least more interesting than going around the castle to look for a closet.

However, Harlow chose to keep that thought to herself. Even though she wanted to join the maids, she needed to focus on finding the magical artifact that was probably the key to all her problems.

"Yes, a number of Mermaids have taken their sanctuary here in the demon realm," Dorian explained. "A lot of species have made their place here as you may have discovered from attending the party, Your Highness."

Harlow did remember that there were lycans, tiger demons in the streets of the city, and creatures like goblins, witches, and others during the party. At first, she didn't think about it that much, but now that she thought about it, it was actually quite impressive.

How did Raphael make different species get along with each other? Their differences would have led to a lot of arguments. However, during the party, everyone got along with each other.

"Compared to the elven realm that refuses passage to demons, the demon realm established by King Raphael allows entry for any species that wishes to abide here," Beth added brightly. "Many people like it here."

"That's… so welcoming of him," Harlow admitted. She didn't think that someone like Raphael who seemed reclusive would let other species come freely. It was another thing that she discovered about him.

"He is indeed the best." Dorian proudly said. Her obvious adoration when she spoke about the demon king made Harlow remember how much Raphael was well-liked by most people. She couldn't remember anyone having a bad impression on the man except for the elven princes.

Harlow decided to change the subject. If she would let her, Dorian would chirp nonstop about how great Raphael was to her. Harlow had heard enough. 

"So what's the danger with Mermaids?" That was at least something Harlow could find useful in another situation. "Will they kill people?"

It was hard to imagine that beautiful creatures like mermaids would use violence toward others just for some clams.

"They like to keep the sea to themselves," Dorian said and shook her head. "And the resources of the sea are included among them. It sometimes takes an arm and a leg just to get a fish or two if you fished in their sacred area."

Harlow's eyes widened. "What? For fish??"

"While it's true that King Raphael reigns over all of the creatures here in the demon realm," Dorian said. "Other species can still be quite territorial about their lands or sea in this case. There was actually a Merchant who ended up getting his heart ripped out of his chest for stealing—"

"However, Her Highness does not need to worry about anything." Beth cut her friend off and threw Dorian a distasteful look.

She was unhappy to see Dorian scaring their esteemed guest. That was not what Raphael would have wanted. So, Beth smiled at Harlow again. "Since Her Highness is looking for clams, you do not need to worry about anything. We will obtain them."

Harlow was a tad worried, but if the Mermaids were still part of the Demon King's realm, then she had faith that perhaps it wouldn't be too dangerous for Raphael's servants. Surely they wouldn't be put at much risk since they came directly from the castle, right?

"Are you sure that the two of you would be alright?" Harlow asked again just to make sure.

"Do not worry about us, Your Highness." Beth smiled. "We will return successful and bring you the clams you crave."

"Thank you then… I am looking forward to dinner." Harlow said at last. "Please be careful."

***

"I really didn't think that would work." Harlow sighed in relief as she waved at the maidservants who left the door of the conservatory. Niam flew close to her and landed on the ground and squawked happily.

The princess managed a nervous smile and gently touched the Phoenix's head as the gigantic bird preened happily. Fire burst from its feathers and it gently nudged Harlow's hand. Harlow still remembered Niam's gesture when it was begging for more food to her.

"No. I don't think I have any seeds for you." Harlow wagged a finger at her beloved bird. "Besides, I saw you have eaten so much today. If you're getting too fat, you might not be able to fly. Soon, you will need to go on a diet."

Harlow noticed Niam seemed to gain a lot of weight after she saw the phoenix the last time in Draec. She could imagine her phoenix must be fed really well here, just like Icecube.

Niam squawked again and shook its head. It nudged Harlow's hand again and pointed to the door outside and gestured to Harlow with an intelligent look in its eyes. For the past two days, Harlow just visited the Phoenix with its friends in the conservatory.

Did Niam want to go out with Harlow?

"I'm not sure if that's a great idea…" Harlow laughed weakly and rubbed Niam's head. "I have to go find the Magic Closet and, if it works as it's supposed to, I don't want to endanger you or anything."

A part of Harlow was feeling more unsure and nervous about how she operated now. Her self-esteem and confidence were shaken up several times over the course of her journey and she wanted to do this alone.

Bringing Icecube or Niam did seem like a good idea, but Harlow still hesitated. What if she was wrong? What if the Magic Closet she saw was nothing like Julian told her? What if it was dangerous?

She couldn't put anyone else at risk but herself.

"I'll see you later, okay?" Harlow smiled and kissed the bird's head.

She made her way out and immediately dashed to her room's window just in time to see the two servants go aboard a carriage, followed by several guards.