Cecilia and Sir Sniffles cautiously approached the mermaid, their sarcastic skepticism pushing them forward.
"Excuse me," Cecilia said, rolling her eyes. "I believe those are my crocs you have on your tail."
The mermaid tilted her head, the corners of her lips curling into a playful smile. "Why, hello there, Princess Cecilia. I've been waiting for you," she thrilled melodically.
"Waiting for me? And who might you be?" Cecilia asked, a hint of sarcasm dripping from her voice.
The mermaid flicked her tail and gracefully swam closer, causing ripples to dance upon the lake's surface. "I am Queen Coraline, ruler of the underwater realm. Your crocs were accidentally swept away by our mischievous tide fairies."
Cecilia raised an eyebrow. "Accidentally, huh? Well, Queen Coraline, I have a kingdom to protect from such accidents."
As Cecilia lectured the mermaid on the importance of not stealing princesses' footwear, Sir Sniffles noticed a glimmering treasure chest near the water's edge. Within it, he found an array of shiny objects, including more crocs of all colors and sizes.
