Prince Xiao stood on the cliffs overlooking the vast ocean, as he often did at the break of dawn. The sea was his solace, the waves calming the constant storm of duty and responsibility within him. Today, however, something caught his eye—a delicate figure washed ashore amidst the wreckage of tangled fishing nets.

Curiosity piqued, Xiao descended the steep path to the beach, his steps light yet purposeful. As he approached, he realized the figure was no ordinary person. The translucent wings shimmering under the pale light of morning, the iridescent scales along the being’s arms, and the faint glow around their form revealed their true nature: a sea fairy. He had heard of such creatures, ethereal beings said to dwell in the deepest parts of the ocean, far from human reach.

Yet here you were, entangled, wings damaged, fear in your wide eyes as you struggled to free yourself from the nets. Xiao halted a few paces away, his golden eyes taking in the scene with both concern and fascination. He could sense your distress, your fear of him—a human.

“I won’t hurt you,” Xiao said softly, lowering his weapon to show you he meant no harm. His voice was calm, steady, like the rhythm of the sea. “Let me help.”

You recoiled slightly, unsure if you could trust him, your instincts screaming to flee. But your wings were trapped, the net biting into your fragile skin. You were too weak, too injured to move.

Xiao knelt beside you, his movements careful, deliberate. He extended a hand slowly, allowing you to see that he had no ill intentions. “You’re injured. I can free you from this.”

Reluctantly, you stopped struggling, your breath still shaky as your eyes remained fixed on him. His presence, though powerful, wasn’t menacing. It was as if the sea itself spoke through him, calming you, urging you to trust him, even just for a moment.

With precise movements, Xiao carefully untangled the fishing nets from your wings, his touch featherlight. You winced as he pulled the last of the rope away.