A few months passed while Conch and Coral fixed the ship and gathered what they would need. Both continued to get wood and food from the surroundings and every now and then, go to a surface island to practice walking. They continued like this undisturbed by the rest of the world, and for a while, it seemed like it would stay like this.
One night once they were finally done with repairs, while Coral was fast asleep, Conch stayed up wondering what to do with the shell he helped find a while ago. When he entered the pearl room, the pearl showed him an image of Zui pacing in a room looking at the same clamshell. He didn't ask for this. He only thought about what to do with the shell.
She looked worried, but for what reason? She was home safe, had a family to care for her, and had everything Conch himself wished for. He became upset thinking about it. Another merman, much older than her, enters the room. They hug and sit on the bed talking.
Merman
"What is the matter, Zui? You have been lost in your world for quite some time now.
Zui
There is someone I wish to see, but I can't find him anymore. I even checked back where we were all separated. He saved my life many times and I have yet to thank him. I don't even have his name.
Merman
It sounds as if you have a romantic situation.
Zui
Father!!
Conch shouldn't be hearing this. This is Zui's personal life with her family. He has no reason to see this. Why is the pearl showing him something he shouldn't know? Why can't he look away.
Merman
It is alright. Regardless of where this mysterious man may be, or who he may be, if you believe long and hard enough, I am sure you will see him again one day.
Zui
Thank you, father. I feel better now.
Merman
Good. May I ask what this person looks like? It seems when you think of him you turn pink in the cheeks. He is obviously handsome.
Zui
Stop it! That's not funny.
Merman
Aw. You are bashful. That is okay. If you want you can tell me another time. I'm glad you are safe and happy.
The merman leaves the room, Zui looks at the clamshell once more then heads out as well. The image clouds up. Conch was a little shocked to hear that conversation between parent and child. What did he mean by romantic situation? Thinking about it started to make his eyes burn. He convinces himself that it's not his business. Pushing the dangerous confusion out of his mind so he can focus on their current mission. To surface and be free.