Do magical folk live by the sea? Of course, they do. I found proof while walking along the shoreline. See the pictures? Obviously, it’s an abandoned fairy castle. Once, years ago, when humans were just starting to build towns and cities, the fairies ruled the earth. The castle remnants you see here were far out in the sea, where no human would ever have ventured. Here the king of the entire ocean lived, and once a year, all the notable magical folk came for a grand ball.

Dolphins and porpoises would come to the castle dock just as the setting sun’s warm orange glow covered the water. Ladies in white gossamer gowns and golden tiaras stepped daintily from their backs and onto the shore. Gracious lords bowed, took their hands, and led them through the coral gates and up a grand staircase lined with delicate white flowers and golden candlesticks. Inside, the palace hummed with the chatter and giggles of the excited fairies while servants brought out plates of oysters, shrimp, and sea cucumbers.

Just imagine yourself out there on the coast of that island. A light spray comes from the ocean as you tiptoe up to the castle. Now you quietly creep to the window and peek inside. Shh, you must be very quiet. Remember, humans aren’t supposed to be here. Listen, can you hear the trumpet’s sound? The dance is beginning. Do you see the seahorses plucking the stings of their harps and violins? The royal couple is about to start the dance. Look how dignified the king is and how poised and sophisticated his queen. See how gracefully they glide into the ballroom? Oh, how elegant their movements. Now the guests float onto the opulent shell floor, and the room becomes a whirling sea of tulle, ribbons, and lace. Tiny slippered feet step with such lightness; do they even touch the floor? Watch as the couples twist and turn so effortlessly underneath the milky glow of the pearl lanterns.

Finally, in the clear flush of dawn, they begin to depart. One by one, they return to their dolphins and porpoises and settle down comfortably with their silk cushions and cashmere blankets. Indeed, they must sleep well on the way home; and dream of magic and moonlight and next year’s ball