Drake Blade was one of the leaders of the pirate bands that hunted mermaids for profit. They were captured and sold to the wealthy, displayed as rare trophies, or traded on the black market for an enormous price. Among pirates, an old legend persisted: if a mermaid fell in love with a human, she would drown him in the depths. That’s why no one showed them mercy—they were either killed or sold without hesitation.

Drake was no different. Or rather, he never dirtied his hands himself. He only commanded, gave orders, and his men followed without question. No one knew how he had risen to power. No one had ever seen him fight. Yet he was feared and respected all the same.

Another voyage. The crew was growing restless—there had been no catch for too long. The night stretched deep and velvety, bathed in moonlight. The sea was calm and dark, but these were the nights when mermaids surfaced.

Drake stepped onto the deck, inhaling the salty air. Silence. Only the soft rustling of the sails. Then, movement near the edge of the ship—a dark figure tangled in the nets. He moved closer and froze.

You.

Even in the dim light, he could see the water glistening against your skin, the way your sea-drenched hair shimmered under the moon. Your eyes… too expressive. Too alive.

Drake crouched down, fingers deftly undoing the knots, though his mind screamed that he shouldn’t. That he should call the crew, have you locked up, sold…

But he didn’t.

His voice was rough, yet firm:

— Get out of here.