Pure #55: Deeper Than A Shell [Part 1/2]

[kaisoobiography]

Title: Deeper Than a Shell
Other Pairing: Chanhun if you squint. Like really hard.
Rating: M
Word Count: 16.7k
Warning: [Click to see]Smut, kidnapping, assault, ridicule.
Summary: Kyungsoo is a merman who frequents a faraway island just to get away. All he has are the waves, the sand, and his close penguin friend to keep him company. He never thought he would encounter a human. Let alone one like Jongin.
Author's Note: Hello! I have had an absolute blast writing this fic. I will cherish it for a long time, even after I (hopefully) improve on my fic writing skills. First and foremost, I would like to thank the special bab who prompted this. I really hope you like it! I would also like to thank N, J, J, and C for helping me edit, and just being really helpful, overall. N in particular really helped me organize ideas before I even had a solid outline, so thank you so much. Also, C really takes the cake as ultimate beta. She helped me a lot in polishing it. I would also like to thank everyone who has given me words of support, throughout. Lastly, I would like to thank the mods for making this fest happen, and all of the writers, as well prompters, and anyone else who contributed in any way.✨



One year and three months have passed since Kyungsoo decided to leave his hometown in the sea.

“How many times do I have to tell you. Sohyun’s favorite color is pink, so we want pink shells, not coral.”

Puzzled, Atlas tilts his head to the side, staring up at Kyungsoo with his tiny, indigo colored eyes. He makes a short whistling noise in response, to which Kyungsoo chuckles. Atlas tosses the unwanted mollusk from his beak.

“It’s alright. Sometimes, I forget about things too.”

They’re sprawled out on the seashore, going through the seashells they’ve collected so far. Every month, Kyungsoo and Atlas spend a week looking for the best ones they can find, along with the prettiest of gemstones. They carefully and intricately put together a crown, specially made for the kingdom’s princess. The pair always spend a lot of time on the project, making sure to have it delivered at the beginning of each month. This upcoming month is even more precious than usual because the Princess’ birthday is arriving.

Kyungsoo’s fins lazily splash against the shallow water, making wet sand splatter behind him. The weather is especially warm today, and the sun feels good against his tail. The light refracts a steel, midnight blue over his dark and silvery scales.

Atlas starts to sing.

The merman hums along with his penguin friend. He takes a break from sorting through the shells to roll over onto his back, welcoming the friendly heat over his tanning skin as it lies exposed to the drier parts of the sand beneath him. There was once a time where his skin was much paler, similar to the Princess’ own. That is only a mere memory.

Nowadays, Kyungsoo spends a lot of time closer to the surface of the ocean. It is something merpeople tend to avoid due to a fear of humans, and wrinkling of skin. This is a fact that is especially maintained by members of the royal family.

Kyungsoo is less caring about these things. He makes it his own mission to be as far apart from everyone else as he possibly can. The only exception is when he ventures off to deliver the crowns he makes. Even then, he is quite sure no one is aware that he is responsible for their creation. Not even the regals themselves.

Kyungsoo also knows that no one else in the kingdom can replicate, or handcraft embellishments as lovely as he can. This is a trait he is proud of. Because of this, it is best he remain anonymous. It makes his items even more valuable, and special.

At this very moment, he envisions rose petal tellin, and the purest of white baby ear shells. He will pair them with ivory epitonium shells, and use morganite gems as well as rose pink tourmaline for decorative accents. To top it all off, he will dust the crown with some of the silver zircon mineral he has recently found. This is to give the crown a glittering presentation. The Princess will love it for sure. He wonders if he should add a forehead piece.

His thoughts are soon cut off when Atlas abruptly stops his singing.

“What’s wrong, little guy?” Kyungsoo asks, concern laced in his tone. He leans up onto his elbows, watching as Atlas ignores him, and begins to peep. The penguin’s attention is directed at something to the right of the merman, so Kyungsoo turns his head.

His sight reveals another person, only a few feet away. Not another merperson, either. There, stands a man. A human, if Kyungsoo’s existing knowledge is anything to go by. From stories and illustrations, in addition to the times he has seen human ships, the description he is able to make aligns perfectly.

The man seems tall. Kyungsoo has nothing to compare it to, since he has never seen a human this close on any previous occasion. He has also never realized that humans would have such flawless skin. The man has a warm, tawny tone about him that blows Kyungsoo’s tan out of the water. He wears nothing but a thick, mesh-like fabric that hangs low on his hips. The material appears shredded, as if it is not meant to be adorned that way. It also seems to be weaved with some sort of vine, and leaves. The merman cannot help but let his sight linger on the skin below the man’s hip bones. His chin length hair falls into a rich chestnut, some of it slightly catching into viridian washed eyes. Eyes that Kyungsoo finds himself getting lost in.

As the two stare at each other, Kyungsoo thinks this man is more beautiful than any illustration he has ever been introduced to. In fact, the merman believes that the other man might hold a beauty similar to, if not more magnificent than Kyungsoo’s own people.

Atlas continues to make peeping sounds, and before Kyungsoo can say anything, the penguin is waddling towards the man. There is a tentative hobble in the animal’s step, but the merman can sense some form of joy from him. This is odd because Atlas is usually shy and timid amongst anyone that is not Kyungsoo himself. The penguin begins circling the human’s feet, while the other two both watch with confusion. After a moment, the human hesitantly bends down, his hand reaching out to pet the penguin. To Kyungsoo’s surprise, Atlas seems to take comfort in the human’s movements.

“Who are you?”, asks the man. He does not abstain caressing Atlas as he acknowledges the merman.

Kyungsoo sits up properly, an incredulous expression painting his face. He does not feel threatened because Atlas seems to take a liking to the stranger. Still, the merman believes the given question should belong to himself. The shore of this island practically belongs to him. He usually encounters animals like those of Atlas’ kind, as well as other birds, and semi-aquatic species. But surely, never humans. He specifically chooses to occupy this area as it is very unlikely that any of his people would travel so far from the kingdom to come here. Likewise, it is even further away from anywhere humans dwell.

“I actually frequent this area, often. However, I have never come across you before,” Kyungsoo responds.

The man pauses for a second. “You have a tail.”

“I do.”

“You are a… merperson?”

Kyungsoo confirms this with a proud nod. “I am.”

He has always been told to stay away from humans. Stories have been told of gruesome tales on how humans seek to capture merpeople for their scales, or somehow, their voices. Kyungsoo knows he has a nice voice, and has always been complimented on his singing. His silvering tale is also rare amongst his people, who commonly have blue, or green ones. With such characteristics, he is always warned to remain attentive of his surroundings.

With his head, he motions toward the way the man is interacting with Atlas. “He seems to take a liking to you. Atlas isn’t usually like this.” The man has settled onto his bottom, legs crossed, as the penguin calmly lies relaxed on his stomach beside him, eyes closed. “With strangers, I mean.”

The human hums, and observes the penguin. He smiles, showing an array of beautiful teeth that are brighter than pearls. “Hello, Atlas.”

The penguin replies with a soft, growling noise.

“Who are you, then?” Kyungsoo questions.

“My name is...Jongin.”

***

Twenty minutes have passed since Kyungsoo met Jongin.

It turns out that Jongin has no clue on how he got on the island. Moreover, he has no recollection of who he is, besides his name.

“I woke up along the shore. The animals I’ve encountered so far have seem to take a liking to me, though.”

Kyungsoo nods as they sit by a large rock. Well, Jongin sits on it, his toes lingering in the clear water. They eat mangos that one of the tree animals helped them get. Merpeople are not exactly knowledgeable in land animals, and Jongin is not any better. He says that they give him familiarity, joking that he must have bonded closely with them in his past life as a fellow animal. Kyungsoo cannot help but perceive Jongin’s imagination as endearing. Atlas sits beside the human while happily snacking over a pile of krill he found. “I did not realize they would be so fond of your people.”

Jongin takes a bite out of his mango, and ponders over Kyungsoo’s words. “Why do you say that?”

“I have heard stories. My father once told me they like to hunt sharks for their fins. My mother said that when she was younger, an entire kingdom was ruined because they deposited monstrous amounts of land oil into our ocean. Many marine animals fell ill, and some perished.”

Jongin swallows. He looks down at his toes that curl in the water. His eyebrows knit in disappointment. “That is sad to learn,” he says. He looks at Kyungsoo, who is reaching over to share a piece of his mango with Atlas.

“Its delicious, right buddy?” The penguin brays in delight, taking the food in excitedly. Kyungsoo chuckles. “Merpeople do not get to eat things like this, often. Especially ones who are nothing like me, and avoid traveling to the coast. Plus, they are not nearly as easy to consume underwater. Our palates prefer salty things, anyway. Seaweed is our staple.”

“I see…”, Jongin sets his own mango into his lap, appearing to contemplate what he should say next. “Do you believe that all humans are bad?”

Kyungsoo bites into some of his fruit. He wonders why Jongin would find his opinion so important. “Frankly, I am not sure what to believe. I am more curious, than I am judgemental,” he shrugs. “You do not seem too bad.”

“Well that’s the thing, isn’t it? I don’t seem so, but I can’t remember my past. What if I was someone who enjoyed hunting for shark fins?” Jongin doesn’t even flinch when Atlas leans over, and starts to pick at his food.

“I hardly believe that,” the merman assures. Kyungsoo squints in the penguin’s direction. “That is not nice, Atlas.”

The penguin ignores his friend, and Jongin giggles. “It’s alright. There’s plenty where that came from.”

Kyungsoo grins. “See? There is no way a shark hunter would giggle.”

Jongin only half smiles. “So...What’s it like? Having no choice but to be in the water all the time. Do you ever wish to walk on land.”

“Sometimes,” Kyungsoo admits, fairing a bit wistful. “I like to explore a lot. One day, I’d like to say I have traveled the entire ocean. I know I could do it. I just do not know anyone who I can do it with.” Kyungsoo avoids lingering on the thought. Friends are not abundant in his life to begin with. There is Chanyeol, back home, but they do not communicate as much as he would like to. They do not communicate at all, really. Kyungsoo is only to blame for it. “Do you even have a place to rest when night comes?”

“I can always ask one of the land animals. I think the sea lions are most fond of me.” Jongin pauses. “Well, I guess they aren't completely land animals…”

“Regardless, I hardly doubt you could sleep with them. They like to pile on top of each other. Let me remind you that they are very heavy.”

“I could always build a fire on the beach, and sleep beside it.”

Kyungsoo’s eyes rake over Jongin’s exposed skin. He tries his best not to stare for too long. “Surely, you would still get cold. Do humans not wear more apparel?”

Jongin shrugs. “For some reason, I can sense that my body is in tune with the weather.”

The merman has no response to that. It sounds odd coming from the human, but then again, Kyungsoo does not have much existing information about humans, anyway. “Then, you would have to know how far the tide comes in at night. Also, the light would attract night predators. There are many that I know of, and many that I’m ignorant of, I am sure. opposite. Either way, I do not believe you’d wish to encounter any,” Kyungsoo warns.

Jongin pouts. “Then what do you suppose I do?”

Kyungsoo and Atlas share a look.

***

Nine hours have passed since Kyungsoo told Atlas and Jongin ‘goodnight’.

Kyungsoo returns to shore a bit after dawn. He carries with him a small sack of sardines, knowing Atlas and his family will greatly appreciate the breakfast. When he arrives at their dwelling, there is something missing.

More specifically, someone.

Jongin.

“Where did he go?” Kyungsoo asks, setting down the food. Atlas’ little brothers and sisters quickly go for the sack, rejoicing over the free treat. Atlas tilts his head, flapping his fins to his sides so as to say he does not know of the human’s whereabouts. “Lets just hope he had not decided to sleep with the sealions, after all. He would surely regret that decision,” the merman murmurs.

Kyungsoo decides to locate him on his own. He prays Jongin hadn’t gone off into the forest, because then, Kyungsoo would be of no help at all. He takes the time to ponder over the possibilities on how Jongin managed to make it to this island. He started to do this the night before, but he had become too tired before he had an opportunity to.

The logic of the situation is lost Kyungsoo. A human on an island where Kyungsoo is positive no other humans live. An island far away from any human civilization. If Jongin simply washed up on the shore, he had to have still been fairly close to the area. There is no practical way he could have survived the storm otherwise.

Luckily, it is not long before Kyungsoo discovers the long legged male. He lies in a bed of enormous taro leaves. His face is peaceful as he sleeps. Kyungsoo imagines the sound of wisped puffs of air where Jongin’s lips have slightly parted, over the light crashing of the waves behind him.

The forest is closer to the ocean on this side of the island, and for a second, Kyungsoo begins to agonize over possible situations. There has been no harm done at this time, but he cannot help but think about dangers Jongin could have encountered. He rests so close to the trees, where as far as Kyungsoo is concerned, unknown threats reside. He is also too close to the water, where the tide could have dragged him in. Or worse. The predators Kyungsoo is aware of that could have taken the him.

Jongin’s presence is a peculiar one, indeed.

***

Two days and fourteen hours have passed, and Kyungsoo begins to befriend Jongin.

“It's okay, Kyungsoo. We’ll be fine, I promise,” Jongin says as they walk through the forest. Well, Jongin walks. Kyungsoo has his arms tightly bound around the other as he carries the merman deeper into the island.

Despite his fear of being attacked by an unfamiliar creature, or getting lost in the trees, the experience is exciting for Kyungsoo. He never imagined he would be able to explore land this way. Or any way, for that matter.

Furthermore, he gathers solace from Jongin’s arms. He did not expect for the human to have strength capable of lifting him up. Kyungsoo is very aware of weight difference between water and land. Based on appearance alone, it is no secret that merpeople weigh more than an average human because of their tails. Surprisingly, Jongin does not seem to be struggling at all.

At Kyungsoo’s lack of response, Jongin continues. “Like I told you before, I've already done quite a bit of exploring on my own time. There's something I think you'll love.”

They pass through varying woodland areas. Some with thick trees, and floors draped in calf lengthed flowers. Jongin giggles every time a plant tickles his legs. Sometimes, they cross over emptier areas, where there is only dirt, and maybe short grass. Kyungsoo wonders how the dirt must feel under Jongin’s feet. If the soil touches his soles more pleasantly than the warm sand on the beach should.

Kyungsoo could be crazy, but it seems as if everything Jongin comes into contact with, becomes more vibrant and alive. In a similar way, the environment seems to respond to Jongin like he is a comfort. The thought in his head does not surprise him. Despite Jongin’s quirkiness, and the enthusiastic nature Kyungsoo has come to grow fond of from the small amount of time he has known the human, Jongin is pleasant to be around. It is challenging for Kyungsoo to imagine someone disliking him. In fact, there have been moments where he has found himself wishing that Jongin’s inevitable departure will not come. He mentally orders himself to abandon these thoughts.

The clearing of trees allows the two to have a better view of their path. Kyungsoo can faintly hear the movement of water. The sound makes him feel relieved, seeing as merpeople are not meant to be away from water for long periods of a time. He and Jongin have been traveling for about thirty minutes, and Kyungsoo can already feel his skin prickling from dryness.

Jongin smiles upon hearing the sound as well, and Kyungsoo figures that they must be close to their destination. Soon, they reach a clearing. The merman is met with one of the most beautiful sites he has ever laid his eyes upon.

“What is this?” Kyungsoo asks, expression filled with wonder. He gapes up at Jongin, their faces hardly inches apart.

“Its called a brook. Isn’t it pretty?”

“Indeed,” Kyungsoo responds breathlessly, taking in all the characteristics of their surroundings. There is a small waterfall; the force of the stream appearing light enough that a person could sit under it without hurting themselves. It lightly showers onto stones, some which are graciously covered in pink and green moss. Some of the stones are translucent, shining tiny reflections of light in the secluded area. There are small groups of lily pads littered over the water, covered by lotuses with the faint colorants of azure and azalia. What steals Kyungsoo’s breath the most, is the pigment of the water itself. It gives the impression that someone had bathed heliotrope in the ripples, and having never removed them, stained the water in consequence.

“Would you like to go in?”

Kyungsoo nods his head in reply.

Jongin brings Kyungsoo closer to the water. He carefully crouches down, settling Kyungsoo at the edge of the land on a flat, clear stone. Its smooth, and cold under the merman’s tail. Kyungsoo studies the water, its lavender tint beckoning to him. He has never seen anything like it; only accustomed to the wonders he has met in the ocean so far. This is magical.

“Are you sure it is safe? Are we supposed to…?” Kyungsoo pulls his bottom lip into his mouth, staring up at Jongin.

Jongin blinks, and wordlessly stares at Kyungsoo with his mouth agape. He inhales, and Kyungsoo watches as the other’s chest moves, a bit perplexed by the weird behavior. The human shakes his head, then instantaneously, pulls a grin, his eyelids crinkling at corners. “I’m a little hurt,” he says, his expression proving otherwise. He rests a hand over the left side of his chest. “How could you think I would be willing to put you in danger?”

“We just met two and a half days ago,” Kyungsoo retorts. Secretly, the merman feels himself trusting Jongin. He does not really have a legitimate reason to trust him, besides the fact that island animals, including Atlas, take a natural liking towards him. It is uncharacteristic for Kyungsoo, yet he cannot bring himself to distrust the human, either. Jongin has been nothing but kind. Kinder than anyone he has ever met. Never quick to judge, always open-minded, always sharing that broad, pretty smile of his. But, a part of Kyungsoo is telling him that it's possible Jongin could have ulterior motives. Realistically, it is not an irrational way of thinking. Maybe Kyungsoo has come so quickly to like the human because he hardly puts an effort to communicate with other people in the first place. Nevertheless, Jongin is easy to like. In fact, Kyungsoo is not capable of imagining someone believing otherwise.

“I went out into the forest, all on my own, and brought you and Atlas so much fruit, yesterday. I think that counts for something.” Jongin half whines. “A token of my appreciation of our friendship. A blossoming friendship.”

Kyungsoo gives him a small smile, an outline of heart shaped lips. “I believe the key word, is ‘blossoming’.”

“I carried you all the way over here, didn’t I? You know, you’re heavier than I thought you’d be. Maybe I should lay off on sharing treats, after all.” Jongin’s tries to hide another grin. Kyungsoo imagines teeth clenching behind scrunched lips.

The merman scoffs playfully, pretending to be offended before quickly maneuvering his body so he can dive into the water.

Kyungsoo is soon welcomed by the purple hues, relieved to be enveloped in the cool body of water. He scans his surroundings and spots floating flowers, and stray petals. His sight is clearer than the sun’s form on a summery day. There are some fish swimming around in small schools which Kyungsoo recognizes as tetras. They manifest as the most beautiful he has ever seen, with scales painted pastel shades of blues, pinks, and greens. Facing downwards, Kyungsoo can see the bottom of the pool. The sand there sparkles, and the merman wonders if this is a magical setting.

The water is different from the sea’s. Less salty, and a bit warmer. Although not used to it, Kyungsoo likes it. There is the shallow sound of a splash, and the sensation rocks his body a little. There is also the sound of water whirling, as tiny bubbles upsurge to the surface. He turns around, and there is Jongin, with his pretty smile, and pretty cheeks. Jongin does not smile often with his mouth closed, but Kyungsoo feels that it suits him, still. Kyungsoo would not mind staying for a while.

He looks down, and realizes Jongin has taken off his clothing. Jongin does not seem to be bothered, but the other turns around and glides away. He pretends to inspect other parts of the area, trying to subdue the heat in his face that the water cannot even help.

After swimming around, and exploring the aquatic area, Kyungsoo finds shells that he might be able to deem good enough for crown making. He rests on a smooth, vast stone that sits off into a corner inside the brook. It slightly indents outwardly, and his silvery tail hangs off it while his fins sway under the water.

Jongin still plays in the water, amused as some of the fish trail after him, everywhere he goes. Kyungsoo chuckles, watching Jongin laughs as he pretends to swim away from them, and they all start to chase after him. They swirl around his legs excitedly, making Jongin giggle, probably ticklish to the sensation. They will have to bring Atlas the next time they visit.

Next time.

Kyungsoo should not get carried away. He continues to focus on his shells, but soon enough, his thoughts wander off again. They are about Jongin.

He surveys the said person, who is now resting on his back, eyes closed as he floats in the water. The sun hits his skin, making it glow. For a second, Kyungsoo thinks he can see glittery specks reflecting off of his body.

What surprises Kyungsoo, is how well Jongin can swim. He must have practiced such an activity as a human. Not only is he a good swimmer, but a strong one. He is not quite as fast as Kyungsoo, but definitely close in speed. The merperson did not know that legs could be such a powerful asset in water.

Even so, something troubles Kyungsoo. Jongin’s ability to breathe while submerged for so long is uncanny. He does not doubt that humans cannot hold their breath underwater for some time. In spite of that, Kyungsoo was taught extensively about humans while he was growing up. One thing he does know, is that they are simply not equipped to be able to naturally sustain their breathing underwater. Jongin held his breath for so long without any sign of difficulty. He did not even swim up to the surface until the first time Kyungsoo did, which the merman estimates to have been about six minutes. It is strange to Kyungsoo, but he decides not to bring it up to the other. Maybe humans have stronger lungs than he thought.

Jongin calmly backstrokes towards him. His eyes are closed, still. There is a peaceful countenance on his face. His hair fans out under him, and Kyungsoo has to remind himself to breathe. Jongin is the definition of beauty.

When he reaches the stone, he hoists himself onto it, careful not to disturb the pile of shells that Kyungsoo is sorting.

“It’s hard to express why, but this place makes me feel at home. I feel like it is important for me to safekeep, and treat with care,” he expresses. Kyungsoo does not respond, so Jongin continues. “Did you know that the ocean that surrounds us, is the largest one?”

Kyungsoo perks up at this, despite how random this piece of information is. “You mean to say that there is more than one ocean?”

Jongin nods. “Of course! This island is on the Pacific ocean.” His face morphs into one of concentration. “I think there are four? Five. I forgot that we are now supposed to recognize the body of water around Antarctica as an ocean.”

“Pacific… Antarctica?” Kyungsoo mimics the word, questioningly. He says the words slowly. “How do you know this?”

“I don’t know. I just do.” Jongin says this in a tone that matches how confused Kyungsoo is feeling. “Maybe I learned it before the accident, and this just means my memory is returning?”

“Maybe,” Kyungsoo responds, peering up at Jongin. He tries to push his dark hair away from his forehead, already knowing the action would be in vain as it flops right back against his eyebrows. Jongin is not even paying attention, seemingly losing himself in thought while surveying the water.

***

Three weeks and five days have passed since Kyungsoo met Jongin.

“The crown is coming along nicely. What do you think, Atlas?”

The penguin makes a delighted noise, and flaps his fins.

He has been spending a lot of time and concentration on the project. Atlas and Jongin have been a great help, saving him many hours by finding supplies for him so he can stay behind and continue making fixes to his arrangement. The crown must be delivered soon.

Jongin finds Kyungsoo’s work fascinating. Oftentimes, he will quietly watch the merman do his work. Kyungsoo never comments on this, but he secretly thinks it is funny. It is one of the rare times that Jongin is not talking about anything and everything. Sometimes, Kyungsoo will look up and catch Jongin staring at him. Jongin never seems to feel embarrassed or ashamed. He will hold his gaze, and it does not end until Kyungsoo feels like the moment is too intense to hold on to.

Jongin likes to tie his hair up by twisting part of the half top of his hair up, and sticking sturdy stems of two flower on each side to hold it together. The pseudanthium of each stem still show, adding to Jongin’s endearing demeanor. This keeps his hair from falling into his face. It also makes it harder to avoid eye contact with him.

By now, Jongin has long discarded his old garb for something else. To Kyungsoo’s dismay, the long legged male now walks around with a skirt of leaves, a flower belt lining his hips. Still, he cannot say the attire does not suit Jongin. He is beautiful and radiant as ever.

The two make a habit of having their meals together. On some occasions, they even join Atlas’ family. They love Jongin’s company. Kyungsoo suspects it is not only because of his aura, but because of the fact that he is constantly bringing them treats from the inner parts of the island that he likes to explore.

The human also starts to bring up more memories, and he shares the dreams he has with Kyungsoo. Much to Kyungsoo’s protests, Jongin still spends his nights in the spot alongside the island where Kyungsoo first found him sleeping.

Jongin tells him about the faces, and the people he sees. He explains how he feels like he has a strong connection with them.

“I get the feeling that they do something significant, and I do, too. I just don’t know what.” Jongin shakes his head, looking discouraged with himself. “My heart feels burdened with responsibility.”

“I think I know what you mean.”

***

Twenty four hours have passed.

Kyungsoo and Jongin visit the brook a lot. They do not forget to bring Atlas along, whenever his mother allows him.

Jongin and Atlas are currently playing with children turtles. It sounds silly, but this is what Kyungsoo calls them in his head because they seem too big to be called hatchlings anymore. Their mother watches from afar, resting on the stone Kyungsoo sat on when he and Jongin first visited the area together.

The merman is searching underwater for something else to add to Sohyun’s crown. He officially completed it, yesterday, but he feels like there is something missing. He wants it to be perfect. It is a gift for the Princess’ birthday, afterall.

He wonders if there might be anything lining the walls behind the waterfall. It would not hurt to check, right?

Anything for the Princess.

Kyungsoo swims to the surface of the water, and starts to close in on the light stream of water that trickles rapidly from the stones above.

“Oh look, its Kyungsoo!” Jongin calls out. “Where have you been hiding?”

“Somewhere where there is peace and quiet,” Kyungsoo retorts, glancing over his shoulder. Jongin sticks his tongue out, and Kyungsoo’s lips break into a full beam, flashing white teeth and pink gums.

He reaches in, and feels against the walls. All he feels is the rough texture of the rock. He decides he is going to have to see what is in front of him in order to find any success, so he pushes himself through the stream so he is in a position where the water does not shower him. Or at least, as much as the space allows him to.

His primary senses prove to be correct, when he finds that there is nothing. His dips deeper into the water, submerging himself once again. His hands continue to feel at the wall as he moves down, his vision only allowing him to see the dark hue of the stone before the foam at the end of the disrupts his vision. He is about to give up altogether, thinking that his idea was foolish in the first place, when his hand slips through something. Confused, he lets himself sink deeper.

He gasps, audibly. It makes fat bubbles escape from his mouth. “What is this,” he whispers to himself. It is an opening that leads into a short tunnel, big enough for him to swim through. He sees small gemstones scattered along the walls in random places. They shine a bit, bringing some light. It seems to lead to more water, and Kyungsoo can make out tiny spots of color on the other end. They are blurry from where he is, and the explorer in him is tempted to take a closer look.

He knows that it is possible he may find danger, but one cannot learn if they have not discovered, right? It is the very reason why his people are so sheltered and somewhat ignorant. They have the entire ocean to investigate, yet they remain afraid. If it were not for other explorers, they would not know a lot of the information that is available to them now. Kyungsoo did not even know that there were oceans of different names until Jongin told him.

Kyungsoo goes back to the surface and calls for Jongin. The other regards him curiously, then swims over when the merman waves him over. “What’s wrong, Kyungsoo?”

“I found something,” Kyungsoo says. “I want to check it out.” He dives back under the water before Jongin can respond, knowing that he will be followed, regardless.

Kyungsoo gestures toward the opening, and Jongin reckons him with wide eyes. Unexpectedly, his mouth forms into another one of his open mouthed, toothy smiles. Kyungsoo ignores the fact that Jongin is probably not supposed to be capable of that action underwater. He jerks his thumb towards the tunnel, and Jongin nods.

The merman swims through first. He can hear the swish of Jongin following closely behind. While passing through, Kyungsoo wistfully imagines all the crowns he could make with the gems on the walls. He knows they would be nearly impossible to detach, though.

They both make it to the other end of the tunnel to discover a small pool. It is just as pretty as the water from the brook, except there seems be no living things besides a few aquatic plants that remain at the floor. There are more gemstones around that blanket the walls. They glow brightly, and the setting leaves Kyungsoo in awe. He is so engrossed by the images in front of him that he does not notice Jongin is not beside him.

Looking up, he can see a brighter light. He rises to the surface, and is greeted by a more stunning setting. There is a small opening to the sky, bringing more light. All Kyungsoo can see is blue. Additional glowing gemstones cover the wall, followed by an abundance of white flowers on vines. They also glow, and Kyungsoo is completely convinced that this place is entirely magical.

“These are jasminum,” Jongin says. “You might commonly know them as jasmine.”

Kyungsoo all but springs from the water, startled. Jongin is standing at the left side of the broad platform; a platform that Kyungsoo had not realized was there. Jongin traces a finger over one of the petals, and the merman realizes he is talking about the flower.

“They glow. Everything in here glows. I have never witnessed anything like this before. I mean, jellyfish glow, and a couple of other fish and such, but I have never seen-”

“Look who can’t stop talking, now,” Jongin chuckles.

This time, it is Kyungsoo who immaturely sticks out his tongue. It is a behavior very atypical from him. Jongin is the only logical explanation for pulling that behavior from out of him.

“Don’t worry, the gorgeous things always deserve to be appreciated by the mind and the eyes. I would know.”

Kyungsoo does not understand what Jongin means with his ending statement. However, when he takes a moment to admire him, he knows he can agree with the first.

He is amazed that Jongin’s skirt managed to remain at his hips, one side of it a little higher up than the other. Although, his hair has fallen from the ponytail that it was in. The rice straw Jongin used to tie it with must have not been durable enough for his time playing in the water. Jongin stands out amongst the gemstones behind him, a contrast to their vibrance. Yet, to Kyungsoo, Jongin is more brilliant. The gems are supposed to illuminate the setting, yet Jongin does that for them. To Kyungsoo, Jongin is ethereal.

He goes over to the edge of the platform, and attempts to pull himself up. This is always the moment where the merperson begins to resent the fact that his tail weighs so much. He cannot even fathom how Jongin has managed to carry him back and forth all this time.

“Let me lend you a hand,” the human offers. He crouches down, and helps to pull the other up. They are successful in their endeavors, except Jongin ends up falling backwards causing Kyungsoo to land on top of him.

“Goodness, are you okay?”

Jongin only smiles sheepishly, his eyelids crinkling at the corners like they always do, as he squints up at Kyungsoo. “More than okay,” he breathlessly replies. Kyungsoo indicts the lack of breath in his response on the fact that he is heavy to lift, on top of the force of the fall. He does not acknowledge the contradictions within this logic that are created by Jongin’s words. Their faces are only inches apart, though Kyungsoo cannot bring himself to move away. He stares at Jongin’s features. The bluish-green of his eyes, his long lashes, the round tip of his nose, the sharp bone defining his jaw…He is captivating.

His cupid’s bow glistens, and Kyungsoo guesses his face is still damp from being in the water. It leads to his pink lips, thick and prominently so. Kyungsoo entertains the thought of kissing them, unconsciously licking his own.

“So cute,” Jongin murmurs. It is so low and quiet, that Kyungsoo thinks he might not have meant to say it outloud.

A blush warms itself onto Kyungsoo’s cheeks. “I am not. Refrain from calling me that in the future.” He scrutinizes the walls, trying to distract himself from the presence beneath him. Jongin has an arm wound to his waist, and that is Kyungsoo’s excuse for remaining in this position.

“You are. You’re cute and you have large, pretty eyes,” Jongin coaxes. “Please look at me, Kyungsoo.”

There is a sense of vulnerability in his voice. Kyungsoo does as he says.

“I’m not sure if this is too soon, but I know that a person can’t help how they feel...” He reaches up to caress Kyungsoo’s cheek with the hand that is not resting at his waist, thumb running over the pink hue. “...And I like you. I like you a lot.”

Kyungsoo inhales when Jongin’s thumb barely touches his bottom lips. His mouth slightly parts, and if he wanted to, he would be able to taste the tip of Jongin’s finger with his tongue. Without a further hint, Jongin is leaning up, and Kyungsoo’s face is moving down. Their lips touch.

The kiss is calm at first. They barely move. The two of them simply finding comfort in the softness of each other’s lips. Jarringly, its Kyungsoo who deepens it. He parts his mouth, gently taking in Jongin’s bottom lip, causing the other to sigh. Jongin leans back down to rest his head against the platform, and Kyungsoo follows, their lips never separating. The action is still slow and steady. Eyes closed and completely drawn into the moment. Kyungsoo can feel Jongin’s hand sliding down his back, making contact with the smooth, dark scales of his tail. He fails to keep the moan from coming out of his mouth, which makes Jongin mouth twitch into a smile. It does not stop their lips from moving.

Kyungsoo realizes he could stay like this with Jongin for a long time. Maybe even forever.

Then he remembers where they are.

All too soon, it ends with Kyungsoo leaving a few lasting pecks to Jongin’s addicting lips. When he finally tries to pull away, Jongin repeats the same action, and gives the other, three more pecks. They both start to laugh, completely in their own world.

“I like you, too,” Kyungsoo admits. “I think you have ruined me.”

Jongin laughs some more. “I’m glad to hear that.” He gives Kyungsoo another peck on the lips, and then another on his cheek. Kyungsoo welcomes all of it.

“I think we should get back.” The merman suggests, moving himself off of the other.

Jongin agrees, and helps him get closer to the edge of the platform so he can dive back into the water. Before Kyungsoo does go in, Jongin stops him with a hand on his shoulder. “Can we keep this place between us, though? We can come back as much as we’d like.”

Simultaneously, the gemstones twinkle, and the petals of the flowers begin to glow even brighter at the mention of the two returning in the future. The merman is certain this is a direct response to Jongin. Something tells him that this very moment is significant.

Kyungsoo nods slowly, expression breaking out into a wide beam as he considers how special this location now is for them. “Definitely.”

***

26 hours have passed since Kyungsoo last spent time with Jongin.

The feeling is peculiar to say the least. The two have hung out together every single day since they first met. Kyungsoo thinks back on how easily they became friends, hardly showing signs of discomfort or even distrust. There is just something about Jongin that makes it easy to find assurance in him.

This thought brings Kyungsoo back to what happened the day before yesterday.

Their kiss.

Is the human purposefully avoiding him? Did Kyungsoo scare him off? Or did something worse happen?

What if something happened to Jongin while he went searching for fruit or something? Kyungsoo has no way of finding him on the island without the ability to walk. He is far from a superhero, but he hates feeling like he is helpless to a situation. All he can do it wait.

It is in the late afternoon when Kyungsoo finally sees Jongin again.

He and Atlas are sorting through more shells by the shore. Kyungsoo already has a plan for the next crown, so it would not hurt to get things started. They will have to put things away soon, though, because the sun is beginning to set, and Atlas’ parents will be expecting him.

“I hope you didn’t miss me too much,” Jongin greets, a little ways from the shoreline. It startles Kyungsoo, who has been completely focused on his task. He notices that Jongin is wearing a new plant skirt. This one hangs a bit longer down his thighs, and there are more flowers attached to it than the one he wore prior. “I brought you something, Atlas.” He is holding a banana leaf, which is being used as a wrap for something. Bending down, he unfolds the top part, and Atlas squacks with glee. He waddles over, and Jongin pets the penguin while he picks at the content inside. Kyungsoo can tell what it is, just by the smell. They are anchovies, Atlas’ favorite. “Slow down, boy,” Jongin chuckles. “I know you have to go home, soon. Save some for your family, alright?”

Atlas takes a step back, dipping his head, slightly. Jongin picks the pouch up, and offers to give the penguin an escort. He agrees, happily, and they start to go on their way.

By this point, Kyungsoo is already irritated, and very close to becoming angry. Jongin has the audacity to disappear for a day without telling anyone, as if it would not worry anyone. Now he is back, and acts as if his actions could not have caused concern. A pack of anchovies would win over Atlas on any circumstance, but Kyungsoo? Kyungsoo does not even receive a proper ‘hello’. The nerve.

Jongin turns his head to send heed to Kyungsoo, and winces when he meets his glare. “I’ll be right back. I promise.”

Kyungsoo rolls his eyes, and with a petty nudge of his shoulder, he brings his attention back to his shells. “You better be,” he grumbles, gathering his items, and stuffing them into the sack he always carries.

The merman decides to bring his things back to his own home. He usually does not like calling it that, but it is where he sleeps. He hardly stays there, mostly because he prefers to spend his time doing everything over nothing at all. His destination is only a 5 minute swim to and from. He knows Jongin will take triple that time to get back to this part of the beach, so he goes.

It is a small, coral cave. It lies about 11 miles away from the island. It is comfortable for Kyungsoo. It does not attract sharks, especially because they do not normally seek food somewhere 30 feet below the surface. A bonus, is that nothing much bigger than the merman can actually fit through any of the entrances. Lucky for Kyungsoo, the sandbed is soft, so he hardly has issues sleeping. Oftentimes, he will come back here to sleep, just to see other small fish resting there. He generally would not make a fuss over it. There is room for many, and it is not like he spends a great deal of his time there in the first place.

He sets the his items down in a hidden crook where he keeps Sohyun’s finished crown. He stares at it longingly for a moment before reminding himself he must get back to the beach.

***

Sixty minutes have passed since Jongin returned to the beach.

“I know you’re upset. What I did was wrong, I know,” Jongin concedes. Kyungsoo can tell that he is sincere.

Jongin once again, carries him through the forest, towards the brook.

Their brook.

Kyungsoo tilts his head and studies Jongin’s face, his own arms wrapped over the other’s shoulders. The gingered light from the fading sun is what helps guide them. He pokes at the corner of Jongin’s lips. “You keep trying not to smile. Are you positive that you are truly sorry.” Kyungsoo is only teasing. There is no way he could ever hold a grudge against Jongin. He still is a bit annoyed, though.

He is a complete hypocrite for it.

“I am. I am really sorry. I’ll never do it again, Kyungsoo.” Jongin’s lips quirk up again, amusing the person in his arms. “But you’ll really love what I’ve done, I hope.”

They make it to the brook, the hue of the water shimmering beautifully under this new view of light. Kyungsoo never fails to be in awe every time he sees this place. He has seen his old kingdom’s castle up close so many times before, which is a marvelous setting all on its own. In spite of that, nothing Kyungsoo has ever seen can come close to the attraction of this site. It is very intimate, and intimacy is something the merperson has rarely gotten the chance to experience. Not until he met Jongin.

He is prepared for the human to set him down on the ledge like he always does before they both enter the water. Alternatively, Jongin takes a detour, walking around the body over water, towards the stony part of the waterfall. It is a bit slippery, and Jongin stays cautious in his steps, especially because he is carrying Kyungsoo.

“Jongin, what are you doing?”

“You’ll see.”

They make it to the back where the stones ascend like a set of steps. Everything is dry, which makes it easier for Jongin to maneuver. He begins to climb up, his strong legs carrying their weight with ease. There is an opening in the middle, where he finally stops. Kyungsoo peers over in an attempt to examine the hole. It is not completely dark, a faint light coming from the end of it, but it intimidates him. He cannot tell what Jongin’s plans are, but he has a feeling that they will be making a trip through here. It is true that Kyungsoo likes to explore, but he is much more at ease with the thought of adventures in water. The explanation on why, is obvious.

Jongin carefully sits down at the opening, his hold on Kyungsoo tight as ever. He looks at the merperson, eagerly. “Ready?”

“For what?” Kyungsoo replies uneasily. “Jongin what are we-”

What comes next is the sound of Kyungsoo’s yells, and Jongin’s rowdy laughter as they begin to slide down a ramp, into a smooth spiral. They land in a sandy pit at the bottom, Jongin having taken the most of it. Still, he shows no signs of pain or harm. Kyungsoo, on the other hand, is already missing the presence of water very deeply.

“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” Jongin asks, still cradling the merman.

Kyungsoo responds with an utterance of disbelief.

Jongin only grins back before standing up. By some means, he does this with Kyungsoo securely in his arms. “Close your eyes, Kyungsoo.”

“Will you throw us down another hole?”

Jongin giggles. “Not today, I don’t think. Just close them, okay?”

Kyungsoo does as he orders, but not before sending him a fake, accusatory frown.

Jongin begins to take a few steps. Kyungsoo gathers the sound of each breath that puffs out of his mouth. He has no idea where they are, and what Jongin about to show him, but he feels no genuine sense of fear.

“Are you ready?”

“You have asked me this already.”

“Open your eyes, Kyungsoo.”

The first thing he notices is that they are in the cavern they found two days ago. Their secret.

It is as beauteous as it was when he first saw it. The gemstones and flowers that align the walls glow brighter than ever. The colors they hold are more vibrant, and they reflect across the entire space. One thing Kyungsoo had not noticed before, is that there is another opening to the sky above the platform as well. He can see part of the moon, as well as the stars.

In the center of the platform lies a colossal shell, big enough to hold a person or two. Kyungsoo did not imagine he would ever see one so massive, though he recognizes what it is right away. It is a haminoea shell. Its shade resembles the inside of a guava, a fruit that Jongin introduced him to, last week. The exterior is transparent enough that Kyungsoo can see it is filled halfway with sand. The sand sits under a layer of taro leaves where flower petals are sprinkled over it.

Off to the side sits a perfectly rectangular block of stone, shiny and polished. Placed over it is a maranta plant. An array of fruits are perched over it in a hastily weaved basket. Alongside them sits seaweed, a batch of oysters, and manila clams. Kyungsoo remembers telling Jongin that manila clams are his favorite things to eat, despite the fact that he does not eat them often. On the ground, over two great mushrooms at opposite ends of the table, lie halos made up of leaves, flowers and wire of twigs. They are flower crowns.

“I do not understand. You constructed all of this for me?”

Jongin moves to rest Kyungsoo on one of the mushroom tops. Kyungsoo makes sure to grab the flower crown placed onto it before he is set down.

“I hope you’re hungry,” Jongin says, going over to the other side of the table. “I can explain over supper?” He puts on his own flower crown.

Kyungsoo stomach growls, as if it was summoned by Jongin’s mention of a meal. “I have not eaten much, today,” he sheepishly answers.

Jongin giggles. “Eat up. There is enough to feed many.”

The first thing Kyungsoo reaches for is one of the manila clams. Jongin grabs a slice of avocado. “You have no idea of the beast you have awoken by putting these in front of me.”

“Anything for a prince like you.”

Kyungsoo stills, nearly choking on the food in his mouth. “What?”

“I just wanted to treat you specially. That’s why I made the flower crowns.” Jongin makes a concerned face.”Did I do something wrong?”

Kyungsoo shakes his head immediately, not wishing to hurt Jongin’s feelings. “There is nothing wrong, Jongin. I really appreciate this. I just feel like I should not be compared to someone of such high ranking. I feel ordinary. If anything, you could be a prince. I think you have all the qualities of one.”

“Well, thank you. I feel flattered that you see me that way,” Jongin says. “But I do think you’re special, Kyungsoo. You deserve to think so highly of yourself, too.”

The merman grapples with a way to respond to that, so he changes the subject. “You have yet to tell me about all of this.”

“Oh right, I almost forgot.” Jongin looks flustered, and Kyungsoo feels guilty for making him feel that way. “I’ve always felt drawn to the brook. I don’t know why, but I find myself coming back to this area from time to time. My thoughts seem to settle much better here. Is that strange, Kyungsoo?”

Kyungsoo swallows the food in his mouth. “Not at all. It sounds quite common to me.”

Jongin continues. “I was curious, so I came around the back of the waterfall, and I just started to climb the stones. Next thing you know, I slip, and I’m going down this slide. It didn’t take me long to realize where I was. I found a couple of these things hidden in the corners.”

“How could we have missed such things?” The merman feels like he spent a lot of time just staring at things in awe. Then again, that is also what led to him missing quite a few details.

“We didn’t spend a lot of time here. Besides, we were pretty preoccupied, I think.” Jongin smirks. It is not something he does a lot, but it squeezes a knot in Kyungsoo’s belly when he does.

Kyungsoo goes for a piece of seaweed, now refusing to look at the other sitting across from him. “Anyway.. Go on.”

“That large shell over there? It was already here this whole time. It’s strange because it was already filled with its contents, besides the flower petals. That was me,” Jongin adds with a blush. “I gathered mostly everything else, but this stone was here, too. Along with these mushrooms.” Jongin gestures to their makeshift dinner table. Kyungsoo has not sat at one in a very long time.

Kyungsoo contemplates for a moment. “This sounds interesting. As if someone lived here once before, and has now abandoned it. I hope we are not intruding.”

“I know this might sound deranged, but I sense no danger from this place, and trusting my instinct is important to me.”

As silly as it may be, Kyungsoo trusts his own instincts because they trust Jongin’s.

They eat quietly, until they cannot fill themselves anymore. Kyungsoo learns that Jongin even prepared a drink made with berries he has found, and freshwater from a cooler stream nearby. It is delicious, and nothing like anything Kyungsoo has ever tasted.

An awkward instance does not once pass. When they finish, Jongin carries Kyungsoo to the haminoea shell, gently placing the merman inside before fitting himself beside him. It is cozy between the two of them, yet the interior is a lot more spacious than Kyungsoo expected. The bed inside is soft, and cushiony, and Kyungsoo easily relaxes as they watch the stars. “This is lunar sand, is it not? Are you aware of what that is. You tend to know everything,” Kyungsoo teases.

“It is, actually,” Jongin nods. “How did you know?”

“I used to have a bed made with it. This sand takes patience to make. But it is so restful, no wonder the process it takes to make it. One must wait every lunar eclipse for it.”

“I know,” Jongin says, lying on his side so he can give Kyungsoo his full attention. “It’s pretty marvelous. Just like you.”

Everything else that follows happens just as suddenly as the first time they kissed.

This time, it is Jongin who lies over Kyungsoo. Their lips move fervently, tongues granting entrance into each other’s mouths. This kiss is much more heated, filled with want and desire. Jongin kisses down the merman’s neck, not minding the faint taste of salt from his skin.

“I want to show you, s-something,” Kyungsoo manages to gasp out. Jongin’s mouth is suctioned onto a sensitive part of his skin, and it drives Kyungsoo mad. “Do you not wish to see?”

Jongin hums and licks at the small bruise he has made before letting up. “What is it?”

Kyungsoo grabs Jongin’s hand, and leads it down to the front of his tail, a few inches from his belly button. There is a bulge there, under scales that have gotten warm, and somewhat oily. It continues to swell, and Kyungsoo groans when Jongin curiously adds pressure.

Jongin takes in Kyungsoo’s form, withering, and beginning to sweat. He presses against the bulge once more, this time with purpose. He grins when Kyungsoo moans out loud, and repeats the action because he likes the sound of Kyungsoo’s voice. “Is this…?”

Kyungsoo nods his head, impatiently. He knows exactly what Jongin is asking about. “Yes, y-yes. Clearly, it is what you think it is.”

“Show it to me,” Jongin requests. His tone is husky in a way Kyungsoo has never gotten from Jongin, in the past.

Slowly, the scales begin to stretch, revealing a hidden organ. It rises from out of its cocoon , until the head is facing upwards. Kyungsoo releases a sigh of relief as it is set free from its confinements. No one has ever seen him like this.

“Can I?” Jongin asks. He patiently runs his other hand alongside the merman’s waist until he is granted permission. The appendage is similar to the human’s own. It is thick, though not as long. It appears glossy, like the skin of a marble berry. The color resembles that of the fruit’s as well, blending in with the dark scales of Kyungsoo’s tail that reflects the tint of blue in a certain light. Jongin begins to stroke it, slowly.

The texture reminds Jongin of some sort of slime. It feels leathery as well. A contrast to what he is familiar with, it still does not bother him, and he takes great joy in the beautiful sounds that advance from the merman’s throat. He almost sounds like he is singing.

They stay like this for a while. The merman is utterly unabashed in his pleads and expressions. He tries his best to keep eye contact with the human when Jongin directs him to. It sparks a sharp flame under Kyungsoo’s skin in a way he cannot coherently express. The rasp in Jongin’s speech, and the fervor in the hue of his blue-green orbs become too much to handle. When Kyungsoo reaches his peak, he cums a glittery white substance. Jongin does not hesitate in scooping some of it in his fingers, taking it upon himself to have a taste.

“It’s so salty, “ he says, his face scrunched up despite the large smile he sports. “I mean, I wouldn’t think it’d be this salty, with all the fruit I’ve been sharing,” he jokes, sampling some more. “I kind of like it, though.”

Kyungsoo chortles at this, completely amused by the human’s behavior. Jongin starts to giggle as well, and then they are both laughing hysterically like they have been in the presence of the funniest thing in the world. Kyungsoo is still panting when Jongin leans over him for another, leisurely kiss. He feels completely sated. He contentedly lets his own hands run down the hard flatness of Jongin’s abdomen, fingers slipping under the flower band of is skirt. The merman returns the favor that was just granted to him, smirking when Jongin loses the ability to continue kissing. They exchange gasps, and hot puffs of air between each other’s lips until Jongin becomes boneless as well.

The two spend the rest of the night like this; exploring each other’s bodies, then watching the stars during their breaks. They do not rush anything. The two take comfort in each other’s gentle heat. It turns into a pattern through the hours, the only sounds existing being their voices, the slickness of skin, and the soft trickle of water.

Part 2