As Henry and Mia guided Queen Aerwyna through the labyrinthine halls of the ancient mermaid palace, they arrived at a chamber adorned with portraits of past rulers, each framed in shells and pearls that gleamed softly in the underwater light.
"Majesty," Henry began respectfully, gesturing towards the portraits, "these are the ancient kings and queens who have ruled our kingdom through the ages."
Aerwyna approached the first portrait, her eyes falling upon a wise-looking merman with a crown adorned with coral and sea gems. "King Lysander," Mia explained, her voice carrying a hint of awe, "he was known for his diplomacy and negotiation skills, which brought peace during turbulent times."
Moving to the next portrait, Aerwyna saw a queen with flowing silver hair and a gaze that seemed to command respect even from the painted canvas. "Queen Nerissa," Henry continued, "she expanded our kingdom's influence and established trade routes that brought prosperity to our people."