The Mermaid's Tears of Betrayal

Merfolk Princess Nerida is demoted, endures hardship. Saved by scholar Aidan Langdon, she consumes her life force to weep pearls for him. Aidan, focused on social climbing, favors the scheming Vivian Sutton, repeatedly betraying Nerida. Her father, Dragon King Aethel, secretly protects his daughter. Nerida, after betrayal, achieves self-redemption through her father's love.