The Merman King’s Bride: A Fairytale Romance by Mona Black Chapter 2 – Selina

The provided text is an excerpt from a fantasy romance novel, “The Merman King’s Bride,” featuring a passionate encounter between the female protagonist, Selina, and a merman. Their interaction is described in vivid detail, highlighting the physicality and emotional intensity of their connection. The narrative unfolds within a fantastical setting, showcasing elements of fairy tale and mythological lore. Selina’s journey involves overcoming obstacles and confronting her feelings in this unusual romance.

The Merman King’s Bride: A Study Guide

Quiz

1. Describe the first impression Selina has of the Merman King. What specific physical characteristics stand out to her?
2. What item of Selina’s does the Merman King request, and how does he initially respond when she refuses him?
3. Explain the Merman King’s claim that women “lied about everything.” What is his stated rationale for that claim, and how does he act based on this belief?
4. What does Selina say she is thinking when she allows the Merman King to kiss her for the first time?
5. How does the Merman King react to Selina’s touch, and what does he tell her about the ways that mermen and humans are different?
6. Describe the physical sensation that Selina experiences when the Merman King kisses her in detail. What are the differences in these sensations compared to those of human kisses she has experienced?
7. What happens to Selina at the end of the first kiss that is described, and what is her reaction to it?
8. What does the Merman King suggest to Selina he will do if she does not give him her pendant? Why is this so important to him?
9. Explain the differences between how the Merman King responds when Selina touches his chest and how she responds when he does. What does that reveal about their physical and emotional differences?
10. In the last section, how does the Merman King react when Selina tells him to “stop”? Why does she react to his kiss in this way?

Quiz Answer Key

1. Selina is immediately struck by his beauty, describing him as having wild blue hair, long broad lashes, bright blue eyes, and a wide smile. She also notes the sharp contrast in his pale coloring and the unusual scales on his arms.
2. The Merman King requests her pendant, and when she refuses, he first becomes mocking and then tries to intimidate her, and he keeps insisting and threatening her until she relents.
3. The Merman King claims that women lied about everything, and specifically about desire and pleasure, suggesting this is because women have not wanted human men and are being untruthful in their interactions with them.
4. Selina admits that when the Merman King kisses her, she is no longer thinking rationally, but is thinking only about how his touch makes her feel and her desire for him to touch her.
5. The Merman King reacts strongly to Selina’s touch. He says that he is cold and that her touch makes his skin feel hot and he says that “it makes me feel sick.” He explains that mermen are different than humans, specifically because his is cold.
6. Selina experiences a powerful and surprising sensation when the Merman King kisses her, describing it as a jolt of lightning. His kisses send shivers and tremors through her and cause her to feel overwhelmed. His kisses also seem to create a physical need for him that she has never felt before.
7. After the first kiss, Selina is overcome by the intensity of the experience. Her knees buckle, and she almost faints; she is left breathless and confused by what happened and the way it made her feel.
8. The Merman King suggests that if Selina does not give him her pendant he will drag her into the sea to be with him always, and that he has no fear of killing her. His pendant is important to him because it allows him to pass as human.
9. When Selina touches the Merman King’s chest, he feels hot, whereas he is cold. But when he touches her chest, it excites her. This highlights their differences, and especially their physical needs and desires, further emphasizing their contrasting natures.
10. The Merman King becomes angry when Selina tells him to stop, and his behavior escalates and becomes violent. Selina reacts this way because he is pushing her boundaries and causing her real pain.

Essay Questions

1. Discuss the power dynamics at play between Selina and the Merman King. How does their initial encounter establish these power imbalances, and how do these dynamics shift throughout the excerpt?
2. Analyze the theme of desire in this excerpt. How does the author portray Selina’s attraction to the Merman King, and how does this differ from the Merman King’s apparent motivations and desires?
3. Explore the theme of “otherness” in the text, focusing on the differences between the Merman King and humans. How do these differences impact their interactions and their potential for a relationship?
4. Consider the use of descriptive language in the excerpt. How does the author use sensory details to create vivid impressions of the characters and the events that take place?
5. Examine the role of the pendant within the narrative. What does it represent to the Merman King? How does the struggle over this object become a representation of the conflict and power struggle between them?

Glossary of Key Terms

• Pendant: In this context, a necklace or charm that seems to allow a nonhuman being to pass as a human, and is an object of desire for the Merman King and an object of power.
• Merman King: A non-human character that is depicted with the physical features of a merman and appears as a figure of power, a representative of a specific magical world, and an object of desire.
• Otherness: The quality or state of being different or foreign; in this text, referring to the stark distinctions between humans and mermen, especially in terms of their biology, desires, and culture.
• Power Dynamics: The complex interactions between people that involve authority and influence; in this case, the imbalance of power between a human woman and a magical merman who is also a king.
• Sensory Details: The use of imagery that appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell) to create more vivid and immersive writing.
• Desire: The psychological state of wanting something, often with a strong element of longing or sexual attraction; in the text, exploring Selina’s attraction to the Merman King and also the Merman King’s desire for an object he sees as key to his goals.
• Fae: A term from folklore for supernatural beings or creatures, often associated with magic and enchantment.
• Cursed: In this story’s title, suggesting that something is negatively enchanted or under a spell.
• Inhuman: Not human, or not possessing human qualities. In this story, used to highlight the Merman King’s nature.
• Intimidation: The act of making someone afraid, often to force them to do something they might not otherwise do, which the Merman King uses to try to get Selina to give him her pendant.

The Merman King’s Bride: A Fairytale Romance

Okay, here is a detailed briefing document reviewing the provided source material:

Briefing Document: “The Merman King’s Bride: A Fairytale Romance (Cursed Fae Kings)”

Date: October 30, 2023

Source: Excerpts from “combinepdf.pdf”, specifically pages 14, 16, 18 and 20.

Overview: This document analyzes a section of the provided text, which appears to be a fantasy romance narrative involving a human woman (Selina) and a merman (referred to as “Fox”). The excerpts detail their first intense encounter, marked by both attraction and a degree of conflict. Key themes involve the nature of the merman, his allure and strangeness, the negotiation of consent and power, and the immediate physical and emotional impact of their interactions.

Key Themes & Ideas:

1. The Merman’s Unconventional Nature and Allure:

• Physical Description: Fox is portrayed as strikingly different from a human, described with “wild blue hair and…long braid, those bright blue eyes and wide smile, that chiseled jaw, the strength in his torso and his muscled arms”. He also has scales on his arms, which contributes to his exotic and otherworldly nature. “His skin appears smooth and like a fish’s.”
• Otherworldly Presence: He is “dangerous, but the Creator has seen more in us – rarely see them in the human world”. He’s also described as someone who “lived in a stinky pond in his thrice-damned world!”. He is not human, and his behavior and way of speaking emphasize this.
• Magnetic Attraction: Despite this strangeness, Selina is instantly drawn to him, stating, “I’ve never seen a man like him”. Fox’s “blue tail splashes in the water, igniting me.”

1. Negotiating Consent and Power Dynamics:

• Coercion and Consent: Fox displays manipulative behavior, stating “Give me my pendant back” while he is “sinking lower into the water,” then adding, “If I help will you give me my pendant back?”. It seems that he’s trying to make her do something because of his need, rather than her desire. This sets up a pattern of power imbalance. At times, he seems to be pushing boundaries, stating “I will kiss you” when Selina tells him not to.
• Challenging Power: Selina demonstrates moments of resistance, asking “Why would I kiss you?” and “Why shouldn’t I?”. She challenges his assumptions and attempts to maintain some control. At one point she states, “I’m not lying, but fine, don’t kiss me, then. Go”. This suggests an ongoing tension between their wills and expectations.
• Unclear Motives: Fox’s reasons for his actions are somewhat opaque, with statements such as “I’ve seen men,” and “Look, you can’t do that… I need it”. This adds a layer of intrigue and uncertainty to the dynamic.

1. Physical and Emotional Impact:

• Sensory Overload: The encounter is portrayed with intense sensory details. Selina notes “the sound breaks the spell,” “his deep voice seems to echo in my bones, sending shivers all over my skin,” and “His lips are on mine, soft and insistent, his face so close I can see every detail”. The physical aspects of their interaction are overwhelming, as are the emotional effects.
• Conflicting Feelings: Selina experiences a mix of fear, attraction, and confusion. “I may be a sheltered princess, but I know about cocks and that they give men pleasure”. She’s trying to analyze the situation through past experiences and also has the current experience. She experiences pleasure, but recognizes she is also confused and “dazed”.
• Unprecedented Experience: Selina acknowledges the uniqueness of her interaction with Fox, stating, “I never thought that having my nipple sucked could feel so good”. “I never thought possible.” Her experiences break her expectations and push her out of her comfort zone.

1. Mysteries and Conflicts:

• The Pendant: The pendant serves as a focal point for their initial interaction, with Fox demanding it back. It hints at a larger plot or reason for Fox seeking contact with Selina. The pendant seems to be central to the plot.
• Fox’s Identity: Fox’s identity as a “Fae King” is referenced in the title. His pronouncements, such as “I’m a Fae King, cursed to live in a stinky pond in my thrice-damned world!” suggest there is more to his story than meets the eye, and there is underlying conflict and suffering in his life.
• Possible Consequences: Selina is also warned by Fox: “I’ll drag you into the lake and ravish you? Think that’s what I do with human women?”. The threat of harm from the merman is clear and present.

Notable Quotes:

• “His gaze moves from my face down to where I’m staring, and his smile shifts, turning into a grin. Dimples appear in his cheeks. His eyes darken, and he lowers my pendant, shifting on the jog. His tail splashes in the water.”
• “I am Princess Selina Elizabeth Thornton, I live at the palace of Kyrene.”
• “There are moments in life when things spin so badly out of control that it doesn’t feel like they’ll ever straighten out again.”
• “His hand is cold, ice seeping into my flesh where he’s holding me, and it makes me feel sick. He’s not human. But his grip is like a steel manacle around my wrist, dragging me meanly toward him.”
• “I stumble backward in the water, panting hard, still dazed from the pleasure he made me feel.”
• “’Fine!’ Gathering my sodden skirts, I stumble out of the water, away from him. ‘If you think I’ll let you kiss me again, you’re out of your mind.’”

Conclusion: The selected excerpts from “The Merman King’s Bride” depict a captivating and complex dynamic between Selina and Fox. It explores the clash between a human woman and a powerful, otherworldly being, weaving together themes of attraction, power struggle, and the potential for danger. It is clear that this is an initial meeting between the two characters, and the unresolved mysteries, emotional tensions and immediate physical reactions set up a framework for conflict and romance in the story. This section is important for the reader’s understanding of the main characters, their personalities and the central conflict.

Selina and the Merman

Okay, here’s an 8-question FAQ based on the provided text, formatted with markdown:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is unique about the physical appearance of the merman in this story, and how does the main character, Selina, react to it?
2. The merman has striking physical characteristics: wild blue hair, bright blue eyes with wide, catlike pupils, sharp teeth, and the most noticeable trait – a tail. His skin is covered in scales and his shoulders have “blue patches”. Selina is fascinated, despite her fear, noticing his beauty and his strangeness. She’s drawn to his allure, even while being aware of his dangerous, non-human nature, describing him as a “creature” and feeling both intrigue and apprehension. She also notes the contrast between his features and the “human” features on his body.
3. What object is of significant importance to the merman, and what does he demand of Selina concerning it?
4. The merman’s pendant is crucial. He demands that Selina return it, calling it “his” and repeatedly telling her to “give me my pendant”. This object appears to hold some significance to his power or identity, as he seems incapable of leaving until he has it back. He is insistent, even possessive about it. He is willing to bargain with her in order to retrieve it.
5. How does the merman manipulate and influence Selina, and what tactics does he employ?
6. The merman uses a combination of physical attraction, intimidation, and veiled promises to influence Selina. He uses his physical proximity, touching her and kissing her, to arouse her and make her want him. He also leverages his status as a mythical being and repeatedly insists he is “not human” to create a sense of otherness and to intimidate her. He uses suggestive statements such as “I will drag you into the lake and ravish you.” as well as bartering techniques such as, “If I help you will you give me my pendant back?”. These methods seem to blur her judgement.
7. What kind of “bargain” or agreement does the merman attempt to make with Selina in exchange for her assistance?
8. The merman offers a series of conditional agreements. He promises, or hints at promises, that he will help Selina if she gives him his pendant back. He states, “If it works, I’ll know you’re telling the truth.” He also seems to make another agreement that if she does as he asks, he will kiss her, which he implies is a reward. The terms of these agreements seem to shift to serve his needs.
9. What kind of power does the merman imply or demonstrate he has in this text?
10. The merman is implied to possess significant power. He states that Selina can not swim away from him as he will catch her with no problem. He is able to open gates in the water and to travel at great speeds, as demonstrated when he sinks quickly. He also seems to have the power to manipulate or seduce humans using his attractiveness and physical contact, as well as make her physically respond. The text also hints that he is not easily killed, as he states, “You get stuck with me and the first shot and become sick.” He also makes comments about being able to pull Selina into the water to be ravished.
11. What is the general relationship dynamic between Selina and the merman, and how does it evolve throughout these excerpts?
12. Initially, the relationship is characterized by Selina’s fear and suspicion of the merman, especially as she sees the way he is not like any other human she has seen. However, it quickly shifts towards intense attraction and confusion. He uses intimidation and manipulation alongside attempts at seductive physical contact, creating a push-pull dynamic. Selina becomes increasingly drawn to him physically, making their interactions more intimate and blurring the boundaries of her judgment. This attraction is coupled with feelings of unease and apprehension, making the relationship complex and potentially dangerous.
13. How do the descriptions of the merman’s physical touch and actions contribute to the overall mood and tone of the text?
14. The merman’s touch is described as both enticing and disturbing, heightening the tension. It fluctuates from “soft and insistent” to “hard,” “cold,” and even painful. This juxtaposition emphasizes the duality of his nature: alluring yet dangerous. Descriptions of his kiss as both pleasurable and frightening, his hands as cold and hard, create a sense of unease and intensity, and contribute to a dark and sensual mood. The overall tone becomes more heightened and frantic as the text progresses.
15. What does the text suggest about the merman’s perspective on humans and human relationships?
16. The merman views humans with a combination of disdain and intrigue. He refers to them as “little humans” and states that humans lie and make promises that they cannot keep. He views their bodies as “in human,” and states that he “wouldn’t lie.” However, he also seems fascinated and even captivated by them, as shown by his physical interactions with Selina and his desire to kiss and touch her. He implies that he does not comprehend human emotions, such as why they would not kiss him, and that his species does not engage in similar behaviours with each other, implying that they are a different species with different practices. His views highlight the disparity between the two worlds, emphasizing the conflict between their very different natures.

The Merman’s Bride

The sources present a narrative involving a merman and a human woman, which includes elements of their interactions and the development of their relationship. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects related to the “Merman’s bride”:

• Initial Encounter: The merman has a pendant, which is initially the focus of the human, Selina [1]. The merman is described as beautiful and dangerous, with striking features like “wild blue hair and that long broad, those bright blue eyes and wide smile, that chiseled jaw” [1]. Selina’s initial reaction to him is a mix of awe and fear [1]. The merman also seems to be intrigued by her, noting she is “a pretty little human” [2].
• Pendant and Power Dynamic: The pendant is significant as it appears to be something the merman needs to function on land, or it is a symbolic part of him. He offers to trade with Selina for it, which shows it has value, but he also tries to intimidate her by claiming, “One only a human princess can break” [2]. He uses his physical strength and also his words to try to get the pendant, indicating a power dynamic between the two characters.
• Intrigue and Attraction: Despite the initial power play, there is also a growing attraction and curiosity between the merman and Selina. She is drawn to him and begins to think of him as beautiful [1]. The merman also acknowledges his attraction to her, saying “You are beautiful. You look like what you are” [2].
• Negotiations and Exchanges: The interactions between the merman and Selina involve a negotiation of sorts, particularly regarding the pendant [2]. He tries to get the pendant from her [2], but their interactions evolve into flirtatious exchanges and eventually kissing [3, 4].
• Physical Intimacy: The narrative includes scenes of physical intimacy between the two, with kissing as a key element [3, 4]. The merman’s touch has a strong effect on Selina. It is described with words such as, “shocking,” “like a jolt of lightning,” and “pleasure” [3, 4]. The merman is described as feeling intensely when they kiss, such as when “his lips move over mine and pleasure courses through me. I feel my arms winding up around his neck as his tongue parts my lips and delves into my mouth” [3].
• The Merman’s Nature: The merman is portrayed as a creature both captivating and dangerous. He is described as cold, having “scale” on his arms [1, 3]. He states he is “a Fae King, cursed to live in a stinky pond in your thrice-damned world!” [3]. This hints at a deeper story and suggests that their relationship is complex, particularly if she becomes his bride.
• Emotional Impact: Selina’s feelings for the merman are described as intense and confusing, going from fear to attraction quickly [1]. The narrative also details the merman’s feelings, which seem to be as intense as Selina’s, as when he “holds on tight” and “press[es] me even more into his mouth” [4]. The exchange between the two shows an intense emotional and physical connection [3, 4].
• Uncertain Future: The interactions end with an uncertain future. He states he will return and then disappears [4]. This sets the stage for further exploration of their relationship and the challenges they might face [4].

In summary, the sources describe the beginning of a complex relationship between a human woman and a merman. The key elements include initial apprehension, growing attraction, physical intimacy, and a power dynamic centered around the merman’s pendant. The narrative indicates a potential bride dynamic which suggests the relationship may become more complex and challenging in the future.

The Merman King’s Bride

The sources present elements of a fairytale romance through the interactions between a human woman, Selina, and a merman [1-4]. Here’s a discussion of those elements:

• Initial Encounter: The story begins with a classic fairytale trope of an encounter between a human and a magical being. Selina meets the merman, who is described with striking features that highlight his otherworldly nature, such as his “wild blue hair”, “bright blue eyes,” and “chiseled jaw” [1]. This initial encounter sets the stage for a romance that transcends the ordinary.
• Beauty and Danger: The merman is depicted as both beautiful and dangerous [1-4]. This combination is a common theme in fairytale romances where the love interest is not entirely safe or predictable. Selina’s initial fear mixed with attraction towards the merman captures the essence of this trope [1].
• Power Imbalance: There is a clear power dynamic between Selina and the merman, typical in many fairytale romances [1, 2]. The merman is physically stronger, and he also holds a position of authority as a “Fae King” [1, 3]. He attempts to dominate the interactions using his words and physical presence, which introduces conflict and creates tension [1, 2]. The pendant he needs adds another layer of complexity to this power struggle.
• Intrigue and Attraction: Despite the power imbalance, there’s a growing sense of intrigue and attraction between the two [1, 2]. Selina begins to view the merman as beautiful, and he acknowledges her beauty as well [1, 2]. The mutual attraction builds on the fairytale motif of love blooming in unexpected places.
• Magical Elements: The presence of a merman is a core element of fantasy and magic in this story [1-4]. His scales, his ability to breathe underwater, and his ties to the Fae world enhance the fairytale aspect of the romance [1-3]. His need for the pendant and his description as a “Fae King, cursed to live in a stinky pond” further develops the magical world around him [3].
• Physical Intimacy: The physical intimacy in the narrative is intense, furthering the idea that this is a passionate and fairytale-like romance. The detailed descriptions of their kissing and touch emphasize the strong connection between them, adding a romantic element that goes beyond simple attraction [1, 3, 4]. The language used, such as “jolt of lightning” and “pleasure courses through me”, underscores the heightened emotions and intimacy involved in their interactions [3, 4].
• Emotional Intensity: Selina’s emotions swing rapidly from fear to attraction, and she experiences heightened feelings when the merman touches her. This emotional intensity is common in fairytale romances where love often takes hold with a sense of urgency and all-consuming passion [1, 3, 4]. The merman’s emotions also seem intense, and the narrative focuses on the connection between the two in the moment.
• Uncertainty and Promise: The story ends with the merman leaving, but promising to return [4]. This uncertainty creates anticipation for the continuation of their story, which is a common theme in fairytale romances, as the reader or listener is left with a sense of hope for their relationship despite the challenges [4].
• Bride Narrative: The title of the text, “The Merman King’s Bride”, suggests a future narrative arc where Selina might become his bride. This alludes to the trope of a chosen or destined bride in fairytales.

In summary, the narrative utilizes several key elements of fairytale romances, such as magical beings, a power imbalance, intense attraction, and a hint of danger and uncertainty [1-4]. These elements work together to create a story that captures the essence of a fairytale romance and sets the stage for future complexities in the relationship.

The Cursed Fae King

The sources introduce a “Cursed Fae King” who is a merman, and they present several key aspects about his nature and situation:

• Identity and Status: The merman identifies himself as a “Fae King” [1]. This indicates he is not just a common merman but holds a position of power within his own world. He also reveals that he is “cursed to live in a stinky pond in your thrice-damned world” [1]. This curse explains his presence in the human realm and suggests that his current state is not his natural one, giving rise to the concept of a “cursed fae king.”
• Physical Description: The merman is described as having “scales on his arms” [2]. He also has a “cold” body [1], further emphasizing his non-human nature. His striking features, such as his “wild blue hair,” “bright blue eyes,” and “chiseled jaw,” highlight his beauty, which is often a trait associated with fae creatures in folklore [3]. These descriptions paint a picture of a being who is both alluring and potentially dangerous, traits that are common in depictions of fae.
• Need for a Pendant: The merman needs his pendant, and it seems crucial to his existence or ability to function on land [3]. The pendant is described as something “only a human princess can break,” indicating that it is tied to his curse or his fae nature. He is intent on getting it back, and his efforts to negotiate and eventually forcefully try to take it from Selina demonstrate its importance to him [1, 2].
• Power and Authority: Despite his cursed state, the merman still displays a sense of authority and power. He is not afraid to use his physical strength and his words to try to get what he wants [2]. His status as a “Fae King” suggests he is used to being in control, which is in conflict with his current situation.
• Emotional Complexity: The merman is not portrayed as a one-dimensional character. He expresses intense feelings, especially when interacting with Selina. The passionate descriptions of their physical intimacy, such as “His lips move over mine and pleasure courses through me” [1], shows a deep and complex character rather than simply a cold, cursed creature. The intensity of his emotions, however, may also be part of his fae nature, who are known for their strong passions and volatile temperaments.
• Connection to the Fae: His statement about being a “Fae King” and his curse firmly place him in the context of the fae realm [1]. Fae creatures are often associated with magic, nature, and a different set of rules than the human world, which explains the otherness of the merman [2, 3].
• Potential Narrative Implications: The fact that he is a cursed fae king suggests a more complex storyline. His curse is a challenge, which could be a central part of the narrative. The relationship between his curse and his status as a Fae King, as well as the reason behind the curse, could drive the plot forward. The presence of Selina, who is possibly a human princess based on the merman’s comments, may be the key to breaking his curse, setting the stage for a potential fairytale romance that could restore his status and resolve his curse.

In summary, the “Cursed Fae King” is a merman whose status, curse, and interactions with Selina are all key elements of the narrative. His identity as a king, his curse, his powerful nature, and the magical elements all combine to make him a complex character within the fairytale romance.

Selina and the Cursed Fae King

The sources suggest elements of a forbidden love between the human, Selina, and the merman, who is a cursed Fae King. Here’s a discussion of those elements:

• Different Worlds: The most prominent aspect of their forbidden love is that they come from different worlds [1-3]. The merman is a Fae King, a magical being, and Selina is a human [2, 3]. This difference creates an inherent barrier to their relationship because they belong to different realms, with different rules and expectations [3]. This is a classic trope in forbidden love stories.
• Power Imbalance: There is a significant power imbalance between Selina and the merman [2, 3]. He is physically stronger and has a higher status in his own world as a king [3]. This imbalance creates a dynamic where their relationship is not equal. The merman is portrayed as dominant and potentially dangerous, while Selina is more vulnerable [2]. The power dynamic and potential danger add another layer to the forbidden nature of their attraction.
• The Merman’s Curse: The merman is a “Fae King, cursed to live in a stinky pond” [3]. His cursed state adds to the forbidden aspect of their love because it suggests that he is not supposed to be in the human world, nor is he free to love as others might [3]. The curse acts as a barrier to the relationship, adding a layer of complexity and difficulty that is typical of forbidden romances.
• Taboo Nature: The relationship between a human and a Fae being is presented as something unusual and potentially taboo [3]. The merman is not just a merman but also a Fae King, which adds to his status as an otherworldly being, setting their relationship outside the bounds of normal human interactions [3]. The potential of their relationship as taboo adds to its forbidden nature.
• Intense Attraction: Despite these barriers, there is an intense attraction between Selina and the merman [1-3]. Their attraction defies the natural order and expectations, making their love forbidden. The descriptions of their physical intimacy, such as the “jolt of lightning” and the “pleasure courses through me,” illustrate the intense, uncontrollable nature of their attraction, which is a common feature of forbidden love [1, 3].
• Uncertain Future: The story ends with the merman leaving, promising to return [4]. This uncertainty adds another layer to the forbidden aspect of their relationship because the audience does not know if their love can overcome the obstacles between them. This uncertainty is a key element of forbidden love stories, where the future of the relationship is often in doubt [4].
• Bride Narrative: The title “The Merman King’s Bride” also implies that the relationship between Selina and the Merman is a forbidden one that may challenge societal norms and expectations [1-4]. The idea of a human becoming the bride of a Fae King further emphasizes the forbidden nature of their relationship, placing it outside of accepted boundaries [1-4].

In summary, the concept of a forbidden love is conveyed through the different worlds they inhabit, the power imbalance between them, the merman’s curse, the taboo nature of their relationship, their intense attraction, their uncertain future, and the bride narrative that implies a relationship that goes against expectations. The combination of these factors creates a compelling and classic tale of forbidden love.

A Fae King’s Curse

The sources feature a key magical creature, a merman, who is also a Fae King [1-3]. Here’s a discussion of the magical elements associated with this character:

• Merman as a Magical Being: The merman’s physical characteristics, such as his “scales on his arms” [2], and his ability to live both on land and in water, classify him as a magical being [1]. The text also mentions his “tail splashes” [3]. These features differentiate him from ordinary humans.
• Fae King: The merman identifies himself as a “Fae King” [1, 3]. This indicates that he is part of the Fae realm, a world associated with magic, nature, and different laws than the human world [3]. The Fae are often portrayed as powerful, alluring, and sometimes dangerous beings, and this depiction of the merman fits those characteristics.
• Cursed State: The merman is described as “cursed to live in a stinky pond in your thrice-damned world” [3]. This curse adds a layer of complexity to his character, and it also suggests his current form is not his natural state. Curses are a common element in magical narratives, and the merman’s curse situates him within a world where magic is a real and active force. The curse also positions him outside the realm of normalcy, further emphasizing his status as a magical creature.
• Pendant: The merman needs a pendant, which is described as something “only a human princess can break” [2]. This object is tied to his curse or his fae nature. The pendant is an enchanted item, indicating the presence of magic. The specific detail that only a human princess can break it further ties the narrative to the magical realm.
• Emotional Intensity: The merman’s intense emotions, especially his passionate interactions with Selina, align with the characterization of fae beings, who are often depicted as driven by strong passions and volatile tempers [3]. The intensity of his emotions is described using phrases like “pleasure courses through me” [3] and a “jolt of lightning” [4], further emphasizing his passionate nature, typical of magical creatures.
• Otherworldliness: The merman’s description as having “wild blue hair,” “bright blue eyes,” and “chiseled jaw” enhances his otherworldly appearance [1]. These features make him seem not entirely human and highlight his magical nature as a Fae King.
• Interactions with Humans: The interactions between the merman and Selina, a human, are charged with magic and suggest the crossing of boundaries between different worlds [2]. The fact that they come from different worlds and yet are drawn to each other underscores the magical forces at work.

In summary, the merman in the sources is a complex magical creature due to his identity as a Fae King, his cursed state, his need for an enchanted pendant, his intense emotions, and the otherwordly aspects of his physical description and his interactions with humans. These features combine to create a compelling figure within the context of a fairytale romance, highlighting the magical elements present in the narrative.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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